Give your child the chance to write, create, and perform! Page to Stage helps 4th–6th graders transform their own stories into short plays. Guided by a children’s author and theater pros, they’ll gain confidence and creativity as their original plays come to life in a “reader’s theatre” showcase.

In this 7 week program with 90-minute after-school classes, kids will collaborate in small teams to create and present their original short plays—no acting or theater experience needed!

During the first four sessions, award winning children’s picture book author and illustrator Rita Goldner will lead students through brainstorming imaginative plots, offering friendly critique, and developing their short stories into lively, stage-ready scripts. Students will learn to create characters, describe settings, and build engaging plots with beginnings, middles, and ends—complete with rising excitement, a climax, and a satisfying conclusion. They’ll also practice writing fun, spirited dialogue as each team completes a five-minute play.

In sessions five through seven, the Desert Foothills Theater youth teaching team will help students bring their scripts from the page to the stage! Through simple performance techniques, students will learn about vocal projection, expression, narration, stage direction, and speaking with confidence.

The final class will feature a special reader’s theatre performance at The Holland Center, where families are invited to see these imaginative stories performed live. Page to Stage offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for kids to see their own words—and creativity—shine before an audience!

SERIES DATES: 7-class series