best theater-drama programs in East Haven, CT

Swift Nature Camp is the perfect place for your child to spend their summer! Our overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 is located in beautiful Wisconsin. We offer a unique blend of traditional summer camp activities and environmental education to help kids increase their appreciation for nature, science, and the environment. We’ve got it all – fun, friendships, adventure trips, and nature! Spend your summer with us – you’ll never forget it!

Are you looking for a great place to learn performing arts in Connecticut? Then you should consider enrolling in the New Haven Academy of Performing Arts! Our school offers a wide range of lessons for all ages, including voice, piano, guitar, bass, ukulele, drums, violin, viola, horns, acting, and dance. Here at the Academy, we understand the importance of providing high quality education in the performing arts and are dedicated to helping you or your child achieve their goals. At the New Haven Academy of Performing Arts, we strive to create an atmosphere that is both encouraging and welcoming. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to helping each student reach their fullest potential. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced student, our knowledgeable staff will be there to provide the guidance and support you need. We also offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate busy schedules. As the number one choice for performing arts education in Connecticut, the New Haven Academy of Performing Arts is committed to providing the highest quality of instruction. With our wide range of classes and flexible scheduling, you’ll be sure to find the perfect program to fit your needs. So come join us and experience the Academy difference today!

that makes Playhouse on Park the wonderful place it is. Playhouse on Park is managed by Playhouse Theatre Group, Inc. and is Greater Hartford's own professional theatre, offering inspiring and enjoyable productions that audiences love and talk about. Our in-residence dance company, stop/time dance theater, produces a full scale production as part of our Main Stage series. We were even honored with Broadway.com's Best Professional Theater in Connecticut award in 2013! Our talented team is dedicated to making Playhouse on Park the extraordinary place it is.

At Arts in CT, we strive to make the arts accessible to all. We understand the importance of the arts in creating an environment where individuals can experience personal growth, explore new ideas, and express themselves. We believe that art should be available to everyone regardless of economic status, race, gender, age, or ability. Our commitment to providing quality, accessible arts programming helps us to bridge the gap between those who have access to the arts and those who do not. Our passion for the arts drives our mission to create equal access to quality arts programming for everyone.

At the Hartt School Community Division, we’re proud to offer an engaging and enriching learning environment for aspiring artists of all ages, from pre-k to adult. Our curriculum is designed to foster the development of the entire artist through a combination of instruction, collaboration, performance, outreach, and creative exploration. We’re also proud to be accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music and the National Association of Schools of Dance. So come join us and be a part of our vibrant community! Our mission is to provide a safe and inspiring learning environment that empowers students to grow and expand their creative potential. We strive to create an atmosphere of acceptance and collaboration, where all members of our community are respected and encouraged to reach their full potential. So if you’re looking for a place to explore your artistry and grow as an artist, look no further than the Hartt School Community Division!

At The Studio, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to explore the performing arts and develop their creative potential. Our instructors provide a fun, encouraging, and challenging environment, allowing students of all ages to uncover their talent and reach their full artistic potential. Our staff is made up of experienced professionals from New York City, who are passionate about the performing arts and have a wealth of knowledge to share with their students. At The Studio, we understand that the performing arts can provide an invaluable outlet to express oneself. Our instructors are passionate about helping students of all ages to tap into their creative potential and reach their goals in the performing arts. We provide innovative, high-quality instruction, and our instructors are up-to-date on the latest trends being used in the industry today. They have the unique ability to empower students with skills and confidence that can enrich all aspects of their lives. At The Studio, we are committed to providing a fun, encouraging, and challenging environment that will help students to develop their artistic skills. Our staff consists of active professional artists from New York City, who are successfully pursuing a life in performance. With their help and guidance, our students gain the tools and confidence they need to succeed in the performing arts and achieve their goals.

The Warner Theatre has been providing entertainment to the Torrington, CT area since 1931 when it was first opened by Warner Brothers Studios. Its grand design by notable architect Thomas Lamb earned it the title of “Connecticut’s Most Beautiful Theatre.” It was the largest and most up-to-date theatre in Torrington, rivaling the popular Palace Theatre and Alhambra Theatre. Today, the Warner Theatre continues to be a source of enjoyment for the community, serving those in Bristol, West Hartford, Danbury, Avon, New Britain, Waterbury, Farmington, Litchfield, and Torrington. Families in the area can look forward to a wide range of theatrical performances, musicals, and concerts. All ages will find something to enjoy at the Warner Theatre. For over nine decades, the Warner Theatre has inspired generations of moviegoers and music lovers alike. It has become a staple of the community and a symbol of the city of Torrington. The Warner Theatre is proud to continue offering a unique and memorable entertainment experience to all who visit.

CFT is a place where children and their families are celebrated and encouraged to be their very best. Our goal is to create an environment that is both positive and safe, where each student is encouraged to reach their fullest potential. We are proud to provide our students with a place to not just learn, but to grow and develop their abilities as they prepare to take on the world. With a staff and faculty that is passionate and dedicated to the students, CFT is a place where children can truly flourish.

The Downtown Cabaret Theatre is an impressive example of the commitment to the downtown area. Originating from Sacred Heart University, where it achieved several successful seasons, the theatre company, led by Claude McNeal, made the move to the downtown area in 1975. Alexander Hawley, Samuel Hawley, Norwick Goodspeed, Mayor Nicholas Panuzio, Leete Doty and other business and civic leaders saw the importance of having a professional theatre company in the area. To make the move happen, the assembly room of the former YWCA was converted into a theatre, installing a balcony and air conditioning. The Downtown Cabaret Theatre has a long history of supporting the downtown area. After achieving several successful seasons at Sacred Heart University, the theatre company, under the artistic direction of Claude McNeal, moved to the downtown area in 1975. Alexander Hawley, Samuel Hawley, Norwick Goodspeed, Mayor Nicholas Panuzio, Leete Doty and other business and civic leaders were determined to make a professional theatre company part of the area. This included converting an assembly room of the former YWCA into a theatre, installing a balcony and air conditioning.

The Moxie Dance Company is a dynamic troupe whose mission is to bring together movement, activism, and performance. Through this powerful combination, they seek to foster meaningful connections between people and explore the complexities of the human experience. The Moxie Dance Company is committed to creating an open and honest platform for movement. Their goal is to build bridges between people of all backgrounds and to journey into the depths of humanity so as to understand our collective existence. The end result is an exploration of what it means to be human.

Now, the Scarpa's are making their mark in the theater community with the opening of Center Stage, a community-based theater that will be open to all ages and abilities. With quality and affordable performances, stellar educational programming, and meaningful volunteer opportunities, Center Stage will be a place to build community one performance at a time. It is a place where everyone is welcome and everyone can find an outlet for their creativity.

At the Colchester Community Theatre (CCT), our mission is to provide a platform for the production and development of the performing arts. This includes but is not limited to drama, musical productions, and other cultural programs that are open to the public. We believe in creating opportunities for community involvement and keeping our ticket prices as low as possible while still providing high-quality entertainment and investing in our future. The CCT is also committed to upholding certain standards of conduct. We do not engage in any form of propaganda or attempt to influence legislation, nor do we take part in any political campaigns. We strive to ensure that our programming is accessible and our activities are respectful of all members of our community.

At the Mandell Jewish Community Center, we believe that everyone should have access to high-quality recreational, cultural, educational, and social programs. We offer a safe and inclusive environment for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together and build community. Our mission is to foster an appreciation for Jewish culture and heritage by celebrating diversity and promoting physical, intellectual, and spiritual well-being. We strive to create an environment of understanding and inclusivity by building bridges of understanding and promoting universal Jewish values. As a center that welcomes everyone, the Mandell Jewish Community Center provides an array of programs designed to meet the needs of the Hartford region. We provide a variety of recreational, cultural, educational, and social activities that foster personal growth and promote a sense of community. We strive to create a positive and supportive space for all people to come together and learn more about Jewish culture and heritage.

Are you interested in getting your foot in the door of the acting industry? Then look no further than Connecticut for the best, easy, and most fun way to learn! "Today's Technique for Today's Actor" is the perfect way to get started. This non-method alternative gives you the tools to work fast and efficiently, essential skills for today's fast-paced entertainment industry. Our technique is based on Don Richardson's book "Acting without Agony", and is quickly becoming the leading course used to prepare for a career in TV, film, and Broadway! So why wait? Start your acting journey today and take your career to the next level!

At the Mandell JCC, everyone is welcome to join the vibrant community of people from all ages, stages and beliefs. Not only will you make new friends and strengthen existing relationships, but you can also benefit from the many offerings at the main campus and satellite facilities. You can get fit in the state-of-the-art fitness center, explore a variety of cultures in the cultural center, learn something new in the preschool, take a dip in the aquatics center, watch a show in the theater, enjoy some family time in the family room, admire beautiful art in the gallery, attend lectures in the hall and get physical therapy in the center. All of this is available right here in the Mandell JCC neighborhood.

At Actors Gym, we know that all actors are unique and that no single technique can be applied to all. That's why our teachers have been studying the works of Stanislavski, Meisner, and other greats for the past 35 years. When we coach our students, our goal is to discover how each one learns and focus on their individual needs. Our actors have different goals when it comes to performance, such as auditioning skills, cold reading, dropping regional accents, projecting, and improving movement. We believe that the best way to accomplish these goals is to build upon a solid foundation. This foundation is the actor's confidence in himself and his work. We understand that achieving these goals takes hard work, and our teachers are honored to be part of the process. At Actors Gym, we strive to tap into the uniqueness of each of our actors to help them grow and reach their goals. We prioritize the individual needs of all our students, and we strive to build their confidence while helping them improve and perfect their craft.

At Sea Tea Comedy Theater, we’re dedicated to providing top-notch, affordable entertainment to all. We give comedians and performers a platform to hone their skills and foster an inclusive, diverse comedy community. Plus, we’re a great launching pad for regional talent to reach a wider audience. At Sea Tea Comedy Theater, we’re all about making sure families have access to quality, affordable entertainment. That’s why we offer a range of opportunities to comedians and performers, allowing them to cultivate their craft and build an inclusive comedy community. We’re also proud to be a platform for regional talent to take their acts to a national level.

Curtain Call, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing the highest quality entertainment and arts education to the Fairfield County community. Our mission is to provide an outlet for artistic expression while entertaining the general public and offering a safe and nurturing environment for learning for all ages. Since its inception in 1990, Curtain Call, Inc. has been working in cooperation with the City of Stamford and the Stamford Community Arts Council. With its current home at the Sterling Farms Theatre Complex on 1349 Newfield Avenue in Stamford, CT, Curtain Call continues to provide top-notch entertainment and arts education programs to visitors of all ages.

The Middletown Stage Company is proud to offer a range of exciting theater experiences for all ages! Every season, talented actors of all ages come together to produce awe-inspiring non-equity community theater productions. In addition, Middletown Stage Company offers summer camps designed to give young theatergoers an enjoyable and comprehensive experience. Our camps feature a variety of activities to engage and inspire our campers. Our goal is to provide an unforgettable theater experience! For the young theater enthusiast, Middletown Stage Company offers not only a unique opportunity to witness quality theater productions, but also to participate in their own theatrical experiences! Through our summer camps, participants will be able to explore and expand their theatrical talents while having fun and making unforgettable memories.

The West Hartford Summer Arts Festival (SAF) is an exciting opportunity for young people to explore their creative side. Founded over 40 years ago by Executive Producer Haig Shahverdian, SAF is a collaboration between the West Hartford Department of Leisure Services, the West Hartford Department of Fine & Performing Arts, and the SAF Endowment Fund at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving. The festival puts an emphasis on musicals, with professional designers and directors from the greater Hartford area participating and helping to create a learning experience for those interested in the various aspects of musical theater. From acting and singing, to dancing and technical theater, the West Hartford Summer Arts Festival provides a platform for kids to express themselves and develop their talents in a safe and inclusive environment. SAF is a great way for young people to discover their passions and gain valuable skills that will last a lifetime.

At the NCTC Performing Arts Theatre, we are thrilled to announce a brand new day for our theatre! We are delighted to share that we have a brand new home, and that the first phase of construction is complete. We believe that our theatre provides the highest quality entertainment and educational programs in the performing arts, specifically designed for children and young adults. At NCTC, our mission is to provide the opportunity for area youth to explore and learn more about the power of the performing arts. We recognize that such activities can enrich their lives and teach valuable skills. Our theatre is committed to being a leader in providing engaging programs for youth in our community. We invite you to come experience the NCTC Performing Arts Theatre and see for yourself the quality entertainment and educational programs we offer. Our goal is to create a safe and creative space for children and young adults to explore the performing arts and to be inspired. We believe that every child should have the opportunity to experience the power of the performing arts.

As a non-profit organization, the Garde Arts Center is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the historic Garde Theatre and providing the community with a wide variety of educational and entertainment programs. In 1985, a non-profit performing arts organization saved the historic Garde Theatre, one of the few remaining movie palaces in Connecticut, from demolition. The newly restored Garde Theatre, with its Moroccan interior and modern seating and stage equipment, creates a beautiful and comfortable setting for its audiences. The Garde Arts Center is making a name for itself, offering entertainment and educational programs to the community. Its distinctive architecture and programming have been acknowledged and celebrated locally and nationally. With its commitment to preserving the Garde Theatre and enriching the community, the Garde Arts Center will continue to thrive for years to come.

The Elm Shakespeare Company is a non-profit organization that works to bring people together to enjoy a shared experience of their humanity through classic plays and performances. This noble goal can only be achieved if productions are created with intention and an understanding of the complexity of our community. To support their mission, the Elm Shakespeare Company relies on the generous donations of individuals like you. The Elm Shakespeare Company passionately believes in creating theater productions that bring people together in order to enjoy a shared experience of humanity. To do this, the company intentionally strives to create productions that address the complexity of our community. In order to keep their programs running, they rely on the donations of generous individuals. The Elm Shakespeare Company is a non-profit organization with an admirable mission - to bring people together and to create a shared experience of their humanity through classic plays and performances. In order to achieve this goal, the company strives to produce intentional productions that address the complexity of our community. This mission is only possible through the support and donations of individuals like you.

At East Lyme Regional Theater, families can come together to be enriched and inspired by the arts. Through the hard work and dedication of the theater’s team, a summer camp and classes in theater arts have been added, reviving a tradition of family theater that was established many years ago. Now, families can experience positive entertainment and involvement while watching their children grow in terms of self-confidence, artistic expression and teamwork. East Lyme Regional Theater is dedicated to building community and enriching lives through the arts. With the addition of a summer camp and classes in theater arts, the theater is now able to resume the former East Lyme Arts Council and East Lyme Children’s Theater’s tradition of family theater. This program will provide an amazing opportunity to families, allowing them to watch their children develop and flourish with the help of self-confidence, artistic expression and teamwork, all while providing positive family entertainment and involvement. At East Lyme Regional Theater, the vision is to create an environment where families can come together to be enriched and inspired by the arts. With the expansion project now underway, families can now be a part of this wonderful program, giving their children the opportunity to explore and develop their talents and skills in the arts. From the theater’s team’s hard work and dedication, this program will provide a positive experience for all families involved.

At Town Players of New Canaan, our mission is to keep you entertained! During the pandemic, when gathering in the theater wasn’t possible, we decided to take our show to the airwaves! We created original stories written by local writers and recreated classic old-time Radio Shows starring local actors. Our radio shows will feature a range of drama, suspense, and comedy – so even when our theater is dark, we’re still able to provide an entertaining experience. Tune in and enjoy! Town Players of New Canaan is committed to bringing you entertainment, no matter the circumstances. With the theater closed due to the pandemic, we’ve turned to radio to keep you entertained. Our original radio shows feature local writers as well as local actors recreating classic old-time Radio Shows. Expect to be surprised and delighted with our range of drama, suspense, and comedy! So even when our theater is dark, we’re still able to bring you an entertaining experience. It’s the Town Players of New Canaan way!

are also available. At Broadway Kids & Company School of Performing Arts, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to explore and develop their artistic talents. Our dedicated staff provides a safe, creative atmosphere where children can discover a love for the performing arts. Our curriculum is designed to foster creativity, cultivate self-confidence, and teach the importance of hard work. Whether your child is interested in jazz, tap, ballet, or musical theater, our classes provide them with the opportunity to grow and express themselves.

At the Canton Parks and Recreation Department, we're committed to helping enhance the quality of life for all Canton residents. We offer a wide selection of recreational and leisure activities, designed to promote healthy physical, social, and emotional experiences. With safety and attractiveness in mind, we maintain our facilities to the highest standards—so everyone can enjoy the best that the Parks and Recreation Department has to offer. We believe that everyone should have access to positive recreational opportunities. That’s why we work hard to ensure that our facilities remain safe, attractive, and well-maintained. We’re passionate about providing a variety of recreational and leisure activities for Canton residents of all ages and backgrounds, so that everyone can benefit from the benefits of physical, social, and emotional experiences.

Kandie Carle has been the Artistic Director of the East Haddam Stage Company since its establishment. With 30 years of experience, her goal is to provide meaningful theatrical experiences to the public with minimal set designs and maximum connection to the audience. EHSCO is a non-union professional company, using local talent and staff to create new works by Connecticut playwrights, as well as established plays and other spoken word art forms.

Goodspeed's Musical Theatre Institute is a unique educational and training program that offers dynamic opportunities for students, young professionals, and anyone interested in furthering their knowledge of the performing arts. Their wide selection of workshops and intensives provide a comprehensive range of topics, allowing participants to expand their skills and explore new possibilities. No matter their level of experience, individuals can take advantage of the institute’s numerous offerings to continue their education in the arts. From beginners to seasoned professionals, the institute provides an expansive curriculum to help students reach their goals and build their confidence. With the institute’s various workshops, intensives, and other programs, there is something to fit everyone’s needs.

At our dance studio, we strive to create an environment that fosters the development of these qualities in each student. Through our carefully crafted curriculum, we work to build character and perseverance, instill positive self-esteem, and earn respect. We believe in the power of dance to teach life lessons that will have value beyond the studio. Our goal is to help each child reach their full potential both on and off the dance floor. We are dedicated to helping them become the best they can be, and our instructors are here to provide the guidance and support needed to help them reach that goal.

Introducing Yale Children’s Theatre – an incredible undergraduate-run community service organization! Sharing the power of theatre with children and young people in the Greater New Haven area, Yale Children’s Theatre has something for everyone. From on-campus and touring productions to an improv troupe and weekly acting workshops, there’s plenty of opportunities to get involved and have fun. At Yale Children’s Theatre, they believe in the importance of theatre for young people. By engaging young people in theatrical productions, improvisational exercises, and weekly workshops, Yale Children’s Theater helps foster creativity and collaboration in a fun and welcoming environment. Through their programs, they’re helping young people learn valuable skills and gain important life experiences. Yale Children’s Theatre is a great way for young people to discover the joy of theatre and explore their creativity. With a variety of productions and workshops available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So join them today and discover the power of theatre!

Are you looking for an easy and fun way to learn acting and be ready for the fast-paced world of entertainment? Look no further than “Today’s Technique for Today’s Actor”, a non-method alternative based on Don Richardson’s book “Acting without Agony”. With this program, you’ll be ready for the entertainment industry in no time. Our program has been used by many aspiring actors, and many have gone on to work in TV, film, and even Broadway. So, if you’re looking to get into the world of acting, why not give “Today’s Technique for Today’s Actor” a try? Our program has been used by many aspiring actors and is based on Don Richardson’s book “Acting without Agony”. This non-method alternative is the perfect way to learn acting in a fun, easy, and most importantly, effective way. Our students have achieved some amazing success after using this program. Many have gone on to work in TV, film, and even Broadway. So, if you’re looking to get into acting, look no further than “Today’s Technique for Today’s Actor”. You’ll be ready for the entertainment industry in no time!

At Buck's Rock Camp, young people between the ages of 11 to 17 can explore the creative and performing arts in a safe and exciting environment. Campers have the freedom to make their own choices each day, leading them to discover new art forms and engage in hands-on, experiential learning. With world-class instruction available in over 30 different arts, such as dance, glassblowing, improv, weaving, lighting design, ceramics, and much more, campers can develop their creative skills in whichever art form they choose. In this empowering atmosphere, campers are trusted to take responsibility for their own creative lives, allowing them to flourish and grow into confident young people with the potential to make great change in the world.

Camp Hazen YMCA located on 150 acres of Cedar Lake in Chester, Connecticut has been providing positive youth camping experiences for over 1500 boys and girls each year from all over the state. Every summer, Camp Hazen offers group camping experiences that are sure to create lasting memories. Over 6000 participants come each year to learn new skills, make friends, and grow in confidence and understanding. Kids at Camp Hazen YMCA are encouraged to take risks, build relationships, and develop the courage and resilience to face life's challenges. Campers will leave Camp Hazen with a newfound sense of self-confidence, feeling empowered to make a difference in their communities.

At Camp Sloane, we understand the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment that encourages campers to learn and grow. Our mission is to put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through character-based programs that positively impact the lives of campers and staff. We foster a community that builds healthy spirit, mind, and body for all and creates a space for cooperation, inclusion, trust, growth, loyalty, and perseverance. We are committed to preparing campers for a bright future by providing them with the tools necessary to succeed in all aspects of life. Through our activities and programs, campers learn the values of hard work and perseverance. We strive to create a space where campers can be their essential selves, explore their creativity, and develop meaningful relationships. At Camp Sloane, we are dedicated to providing an enriching experience for campers and staff alike. Our programs are designed to bring out the best in our campers and staff and to instill lifelong values. We strive to empower our campers to make positive changes in their lives and the lives of those around them.