YOUTH PERFORMING ARTS EDUCATION
Classes may be canceled by the Arts Center if minimum enrollment is not met. In this case, participants will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and issued a full refund. Participant cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance or for no-shows.
List of Services
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Writing the Short Play | Ages 15+List Item 1
3 Saturdays, January 10th - 24th | 10:00 - 12:00 PM
Instructor: Paul Edwards
Writing a short play is a great way for not only aspiring playwrights, but all theatre people or writers in other genres to get better acquainted with playwriting. This workshop will review essential elements of dramatic writing in general, and the specific conventions of the short play. Participants will have written an initial draft of a short play by the conclusion of the workshop. A short play festival is planned for April at the GAC.
Location: GAC Upstairs Art Classroom
$80 | Non-Member
$68 | Member
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New Ways to Write a Play | Ages 15+List Item 2
2 Saturdays, February 14th - 21st | 9:30 - 12:30 PM
Instructor: Paul Edwards
Forget Aristotle—for now! There are many ways to write a play and create something fresh. In this two-part workshop, participants will explore three different approaches. The first three-hour session introduces these methods through fun writing exercises. You’ll then have a week to develop a short play from one exercise. In the second three-hour session, we’ll read drafts and discuss them. Participants will also have the opportunity to submit their work for a staged reading at the GAC Short Play Festival in April.
Location: GAC Upstairs Art Classroom
$65 | Non-Member
$55 | Member
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Performance Skills: Getting Your Music Past the Fear | Ages 15+List Item 3
Wednesday, March 11th | 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Instructor: Chris Coady
Take your music from practice to performance with confidence! This hands-on workshop covers techniques for performing live, engaging your audience, and building stage presence. Learn practical tips for playing in a band, managing performance anxiety, and connecting with listeners. Perfect for musicians of all levels looking to boost their confidence, refine their skills, and make every performance memorable.
Location: GAC Blue Box Theatre
$45 | Non-Member
$38 | Member
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The Cluster Method: Creative Songwriting | Ages 15+List Item 4
3 Wednesdays, March 25th - April 8th | 6:00 - 7:30 PM
Instructor: Chris Coady
Join performing singer-songwriter Chris Coady for an interactive workshop on the art and craft of songwriting. Explore techniques to access your creative right brain and organize ideas with your analytical left brain. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned songwriter, you’ll gain new skills, inspiration, and practical tips. Bring an instrument if you like, but it’s not required—questions and participation are encouraged!
Location: GAC Blue Box Theatre
$100 | Non-Member
$85 | Member
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From Nervous to Natural: The Stage Confidence Workshop | Ages 15+
Monday, May 18th | 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Instructor: Skyler Matthias
This class is designed to help you develop the confidence and presence needed to stand tall and articulate your ideas effectively in front of any audience. Skyler Matthias, owner of Gunnison Valley Entertainment, a wedding DJ company based out of Gunnison will teach practical techniques to overcome stage fright, engage listeners, and communicate with impact. Whether you're a beginner, a leader, or a seasoned public speaker, you'll leave with actionable skills to make your voice heard and inspire others.
Location: GAC Blue Box Theatre
$25 | Non-Member
$21 | Member
