Fantasy In the Classroom

In the world of after-school activities, the options are truly limitless. As a parent navigating the weekly karate-soccer-orchestra schedule, you ask yourself, what activity is going to allow my child to truly flourish and have fun learning something new with friends? Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theatre is answering the call with their highly individualized theatre arts program, Fantasy in the Classroom. The best part? Fantasy in the Classroom comes directly to your schools!

What is Fantasy In the Classroom?

Fantasy in the Classroom brings theatre education to local schools through after-school and in-school drama clubs and programming. Classes last an hour and serve as a “theatrical sampler,” exposing students in grades K-8 to storytelling, improvisation, movement, musical theatre, acting, audition technique, and much more!

The goal of Fantasy in the Classroom isn’t necessarily to bring up the next generation of Broadway stars (although teachers are happy to encourage students theatrical journeys after the class ends), but to expose students to theatre arts in a supportive environment that fosters an early appreciation for the arts in a fun, stress-free setting. Fantasy classes promote teamwork, self-acceptance, and creativity while building brave actors and students.

How It Works

Fantasy in the Classroom sessions last for eight to ten weeks depending upon the individual school’s need. Sessions run according to school semesters, both in the fall and winter/spring. Each session will end with a final class sharing presentation which students’ families and friends are invited to attend. Students will present a short one-act play or scene they have prepared. All students are essential cast members in these final performances.

In order to offer tailored teaching options, classes are divided into appropriate age groups and are led by Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater Teaching Artists. All Teaching Artists are professionals in their respective fields of theatre, music, dance, and education. Teachers are CPR certified and background checked by the Alabama Department of Education.

Fantasy in the Classroom is currently in elementary and middle schools in the Huntsville City Schools, Madison City Schools, and Madison County Schools systems. The program is expanding and welcoming new schools throughout the school year.

If your school is interested in learning more about Fantasy in the Classroom, please contact Education Director, Candice Cooper at [email protected]. Fantasy in the Classroom is typically run in conjunction with school’s PTA or After-School Program volunteers.

[sws_blue_box box_size=”450″]ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Lauren Carlton is the Education & Outreach Coordinator for Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theatre. She’s also an Alabama-based mezzo-soprano, voice teacher, and actor. [/sws_blue_box]