Drama School Is Back — And It’s Not Just for Kids Who Want Broadway
By Avery Anderson
You know what doesn’t show up on standardized tests? Comedic timing. Or the ability to belt out “Tomorrow” without breaking into a flop sweat. Or that tiny moment of courage it takes for a shy kid to raise their hand and say, “I’ll go first.”
This fall, American Stage is betting that those skills matter just as much as algebra. Their drama school lineup runs the gamut — beginner acting, sketch comedy, scene study, and youth musical theatre — a deliberately wide spread, says Director of Education Jose Aviles.
“My vision is to offer an array of classes that give our students an opportunity to learn and hone skills in all aspects of acting,” Aviles said. “They all connect and build upon each other … ultimately, we want to create a safe space for our community to try something new in a stress-free environment and create connections with others that also have a love for theatre.”
Why it matters
Here’s the kicker: youth who study the arts aren’t just more likely to audition for Annie. They’re more likely to show up for life. According to a National Endowment for the Arts report, low-income students engaged in the arts are twice as likely to graduate college as their peers. Add in research linking arts participation to improved reading skills, critical thinking, and social-emotional development, and suddenly “Acting Out!” sounds less like trouble and more like a strategy.
Aviles puts it more simply: “We focus on the importance of ensemble building, working collaboratively with others, respect for others, improved literacy skills … boosting self-esteem and critical thinking skills.” Translation: less screen-scrolling, more human skills.
For the grown-ups too
It’s not just kids. Aviles is teaching An Actor Prepares: Intro to Acting himself — and he insists there’s a performer hiding in everyone. “I always go into my first class with the goal that each one of my students will discover something new about themselves,” he said.
And no, that doesn’t mean everyone leaves ready for The Crown. It means they leave with “inspired moments that encourage my students to believe in their abilities.” If you’ve ever frozen during a work presentation, that alone might be worth the tuition.
The payoff
The semester caps with informal sharings — performances that are less about polish and more about pride. “There is nothing like witnessing when a student is inspired and discovers something new about their abilities,” Aviles said. “Our sharings are full of joy and excitement.”
So yes, American Stage is teaching acting. But the bigger drama is what happens offstage: kids and adults alike discovering they can be bolder, braver, and maybe a little more themselves.
Because really — when was the last time algebra gave you that?
Fall Drama School classes at American Stage start October 6–7. From improv to scene study, there’s a spot for every level. Sign up here
Avery Anderson
Avery Anderson
Avery Anderson