Children invited to join theater workshop

Children interested in learning about theater this summer are invited to check out the “two for the price of one” deal being offered by the Sheldon Theatre.

The annual two-week Summer Theatre Workshop runs Aug. 6-17. The cost is $250 per child, but this summer the Sheldon invites each paying student to bring along a friend or sibling for free.

In addition, the theater has scholarships for a limited number of students.

“We just want kids to be able to participate,” said Dawn Wettern of Red Wing Community Education, which is handling registration. “Red Wing is so supportive of the arts,” she said, and the arts have been shown to enhance learning.

“Every child should have the opportunity,” she said.

The workshop runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Sheldon for young people entering fourth through 12th grade. No experience is needed.

Students will learn behind-the-scene aspects of theater including sets, casting, lights and sound, along with skills for participating on stage — voice, movement, and how to bring characters to life, Wettern said. They’ll also learn about staging a production, and will conclude their two weeks by putting on a live show for family and friends on Aug.17.

The workshop is being led by Pamela Larson of Stockholm, Wis., an independent theater artist and educator who also has been involved with the Sheldon’s theater camp at YMCA Camp Pepin.

To register or inquire about assistance, people should call Community Ed at 651-385-4565. Deadline to sign up is Aug. 1.

Tags: arts and entertainment, arts, entertainment, lifestyle