The Laguna Playhouse is committed to excellence in programming, teaching, and production. We are committed to the process of training and production that encourages thinking, responsive individuals in a diverse society. We view the training and practice of theatre as necessary and integral to our lives.
Download New Fall 2010 - Winter 2011 Schedule
Our Director of Youth Programs
Donna Inglima – a veteran director, writer, producer, teacher, and actor – serves as
Director of Youth Theatre, Education & Outreach for The Laguna Playhouse. Donna, who has directed published and original plays in New York City, Chicago, Palm Springs, Stockbridge, MA, Syracuse, NY, and Laguna Beach, is also the Producer and Director of TheatreReach, an Equity Theatre for Young Audiences touring program. You may contact Donna at 949-487-ARTS (2787), extension 202, or donna@lagunaplayhouse.com.
Our Faculty
Kelly Herman is a professional actress and serves as the Associate Director of Youth Theatre, Education & Outreach for The Laguna Playhouse. She has a BA in Theatre Performance from Long Beach State and a Master of Fine Arts from Rutgers University Professional Training Program. Kelly studied at South Coast Repertory’s Summer Conservatory and continues to study acting in various Master classes. She teaches acting, is a consultant on period styles for stage, and is a private coach.
Kathy Cannarozzi-Harris is the Director of Theatre at Mission Viejo High School and has been recognized statewide for artistic excellence in programming. Kathy has an MA in Theatre from Penn State, is a freelance director, private coach, and has worked at The Playhouse for the last eight years as a director and teacher in our Youth Theatre Program. Kathy has directed over 120 productions and has been teaching for over 20 years. Kathy is a member of the prestigious California Arts Project in San Diego.
Jane Hilary comes from England where she studied at the Royal Theatre Company as well as taught and directed both adults and young people. Jane is a former South Coast Repertory Professional Conservatory member and former Artistic Director of Shakespeare by the Sea. Jane currently teaches, directs, stage manages, and performs. She’s a novice fiddle player and works her skills at various fiddler gatherings. She is currently stage managing for The Laguna Playhouse TheatreReach Program.
Christopher Villa is a professional (certified) fight choreographer, actor and teacher. He acts and teaches nationally and at University California, Irvine. Christopher has worked at The Playhouse for five years.
FALL 2010/WINTER 2011 YOUTH THEATRE CLASSES
CREATIVE DRAMA WORKSHOP
(Ages 6 - 8)
This is an excellent introduction to acting. Students explore self expression through playful exercises and rehearsal in preparation for their showcase. Students will increase their concentration, memorization skills, and focus their energy as they enjoy the creative experience. There is a final showcase on the last day of class. Enrollment is limited to 10 students. Age requirements are firm.
FALL
Date: Sept 27 - Dec 13 (10 weeks)
(NO CLASS Oct 11 & Nov 22)
Day/Time: Monday 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Fee: $200
Instructor: Staff
Location: TBD
WINTER
Date: Jan 10 - Mar 28 (10 weeks)
(NO CLASS Jan 17 & Feb 21)
Day/Time: Monday 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Fee: $200
Instructor: Staff
ACTING FUNDAMENTALS
(Ages 9 - 11)
Learn how to act in a fun and supportive environment! This class will focus on the creative needs of the individual student as well as ensemble acting; through short scenes, monologues and audition material. Class work is presented in a final showing.
FALL
Date: Sept 28 - Dec 7 (10 weeks)
(NO CLASS Nov 23)
Day/Time: Tuesday 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Fee: $200
Instructor: Jane Hilary
WINTER
Date: Jan 11 - Mar 22 (10 weeks)
(NO CLASS Feb 22)
Day/Time: Monday 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Fee: $200
Instructor: Jane Hilary
INTERMEDIATE ACTING
(Ages 11 &12)
All levels welcome. Discover the process of acting while working on scenes, monologues, ensemble pieces and character work. Showcase on final day of class.
FALL
Date: Sept 29 - Dec 8 (10 weeks)
(NO CLASS Nov 24)
Day/Time: Tuesday 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Fee: $200
Instructor: Jane Hillary
WINTER
Date: Jan 12 - Mar 23 (10 weeks)
(NO CLASS Feb 23)
Day/Time: Monday 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Fee: $200
Instructor: Jane Hilary
ACTING FOR TEENS
(Ages 13 - 18)
All students are welcome. This class offers continuous work on "using and working from self." Small class size allows each student to work to his or her own potential. Audition techniques, monologues, scene study, improvisation, and basic character work. Class moves along rapidly and progresses each session. Showcase held last day of class.
FALL
Date: Sept 30 - Dec 9 (10 weeks)
(NO CLASS Nov 25)
Day/Time: Tuesday 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Fee: $200
Instructor: Jane Hilary
WINTER
Date: Jan 13 - Mar 24 (10 weeks)
(NO CLASS Feb 24)
Day/Time: Monday 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Fee: $200
Instructor: Jane Hilary
MUSICAL THEATRE WORKSHOP
(Ages 9 - 12)
This class is for beginning and intermediate students. Learn healthy singing techniques, ensemble songs, and how to present yourself at an audition. Each student will work on an individual song selection.
Date: Jan 15- April 2
(NO CLASS Feb 26 & Mar 5)
Day/Time: Saturday 10:00am - Noon
Fee: $225
Instructor: Diane King Vann
JOHNNY MERCER WEEKEND WORKSHOP
(Ages 9-18)
A very special weekend of musical theatre, songwriting and art. What is it like to learn professional choreography? Write a song? Learn music? Two full days of non-stop artistic immersion. Students must commit to the entire weekend of activities. Showcase on Sunday.
Date: Spring 2011 TBA
Day/Time: Saturday & Sunday 9:30am - 5:00pm
Fee: $60
Instructors: Sari Rose Poll & The Johnny Mercer Foundation Artists
Composer Explored: Johnny Mercer
FALL REGISTRATION DEADLINE: September 24, 2010
WINTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE: January 6, 2011
Class sizes are limited and fill quickly. First come, first served with payment
Phone with your payment or credit card number to: Kelly Herman (949) 497-2787 x230
Scholarship Information: A limited number of partial Scholarships are available for those students who could not otherwise participate. Criteria: Statement of need including income hardship.
Refund Policy: No refunds after first class. Full refund upon cancellation up to seven days prior to the first class. 75% refund after the seven day deadline.
The Laguna Playhouse reserves the right to dismiss any student having difficulty meeting behavioral criteria and participating fully in the class and workshop experience.













