First Stage

Our Academy

First Stage Theater Academy is the nation’s largest high impact theater training program for young people. We foster life skills through stage skills through classes emphasizing Creative Drama, Stage Movement, Voice, Speech, Scene Study, and so much more. Professional theater artists from around the country join us every year to share their expertise and guidance to young performers of all ages and experience, supporting our philosophy of life skills through stage skills.

Learn more about First Stage Theater Academy:

In Spring 2020, we pivoted to fully virtual programming:

Beginning with our Summer Academy, we offered both virtual and on-site programming. After a very safe and successful nine weeks of programming, we are proud to continue offering both formats of classes.

We maintain and exceed all CDC guildines without exception, as the health and safety of students, First Stage, and MYAC staff is our highest priority. Further information regarding policies will be sent to registered families.

Summer 2021 Programming will be announced on March 1st! Stay tuned!

Featured Class

MEAN GIRLS - Show Workshop (7th/8th Grade): 7/19-7/23

SHOW WORKSHOP: MEAN GIRLS (7th/8th Grade)
DATES: July 19th-July 23rd TIME: 9:00am-3:00pm COST: $300

NOTE: This class will take place at in-person at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center. Students MUST have a signed COVID waiver on file to enter the building. MYAC will be adhering to CDC recommended practices, including masks being worn at all times. More details found here. ACADEMY SHOW WORKSHOP: Explore the craft of acting with classes in Acting Theory, Voice and Movement, Improvisation, Shakespeare, and Musical Theater, all through the lens of some of our favorite shows. These shows will inspire the work we explore throughout the session, with musical theater, contemporary, and classical show options to choose from. Whether it’s a show you know and love, or a new show you want to learn more about, these sessions will deepen your knowledge of theater and strengthen your actor skills. All sessions will explore Acting Theory, Improvisation, and Shakespeare, while sessions with a musical theater show title will also explore Musical Theater, and those with a contemporary or classical show title will explore Voice and Movement.

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