Offshoot Productions is teaming up once again with the Tyrone Recreation Department at the Roger Spencer Community Center to offer the highest quality theatre education. Offshoot artistic director Susan M. Steadman, Ph.D. teaches three classes, along with experienced instructors from Offshoot’s professional cast and staff.

“The ABCs of Acting,” geared to participants aged 6 to 9, meets Wednesdays from 3:15-4:15 p.m. from September 13 to October 18. Theatre games and creative dramatics help youngsters learn important principles of acting while building self-confidence and teamwork. A demonstration at the end of the last class provides an opportunity for participants’ families to share in the children's accomplishments. This class is also available to homeschoolers on Thursdays from 11:00 a.m.- 12 p.m. from September 14 to October 19.

“The Art of Comic Acting,” created especially for homeschoolers aged 9 to 16, will be held on Thursdays from 12:30-2 p.m. from September 14 to October 19. Everyone enjoys a good laugh, and many of us revel in the opportunity to inspire others to laughter. This fun-filled six-week class, which uses scripts and improvisation to introduce participants to comic performance, ends in a showcase for invited guests. No previous experience is required.
 
Classes are held at the Roger Spencer Community Center, 145 Commerce Drive, Tyrone. All registration is handled through the Tyrone Recreation Department, also located at the RSCC. For program costs and registration, contact Tyrone Recreation at 770-487-4694 or [email protected]. For additional information on class content, call the Offshoot office at 770-631-2362 or send e-mail to [email protected].

Class size is limited to ensure individual attention for each participant. Dr. Steadman, who has directed over five dozen productions for professional, alternative, community and educational theatre, has taught at universities, colleges, private schools, and conferences, and has adjudicated numerous theatre competitions. A Dramatists Guild member and produced playwright, she has also authored many publications on theatrical practice. She holds a Ph.D. in theatre from Louisiana State University, and a masters in educational theatre from New York University.