FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Diane Zucker: (914) 437-7404, [email protected]
WEB address: http://www.vassar.edu
SUMMARY: Applications are being accepted by Vassar College/New York Stage and Film summer theater training program POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y., February 5, 1999 -- The Vassar College/New York Stage and Film Powerhouse Summer Theater Program for theater pre-professionals is now accepting applications for its 1999 season. Begun in 1985, the program is intended for those seriously considering a career in theater or a career change into theater. The season opens June 11 and ends August 3, 1999.
Vassar College and New York Stage and Film's Powerhouse Summer Theater Program is a unique collaboration between a 138-year-old liberal arts college, Vassar, and an established professional theater group, the New York Stage and Film Company. Apprentices in the program choose a discipline and then work alongside some of the country's leading theater practitioners. This program was the subject of a CBS Sunday Morning feature with Charles Osgood in August 1995. Classes, held daily except Sunday, are taught by visiting master teachers and members of the professional company. As part of the rigorous training program, practical work is required of all apprentices. Their participation is based on individual needs, talents, and desires.
The proposed 1999 season will consist of three main stage productions, outdoor Shakespeare, second stage productions, workshop productions, and play-reading festivals.
The focus of the Vassar College/New York Stage and Film Powerhouse Summer Theater Program is the development of new work, and the apprentices will be an integral part of the process. At the same time apprentice actors will perfect their own craft as members of the outdoor Shakespeare company.
Apprentice directors and playwrights will develop their material in workshops and readings. It is the goal of the Powerhouse to build an apprentice company each season. Actors, directors, playwrights, and designers all work together to form their own company within the framework of the larger professional theater company. Apprentices take classes in Shakespearean text, directing, acting, playwriting, stage combat, radio theater, voice, and movement. In addition, the apprentices shadow professional actors, playwrights, directors, and technicians throughout the summer theater season.
Last year, Powerhouse Summer Theater Program apprentices represented 42 colleges and universities nationwide, including Sarah Lawrence College, Smith College, Vassar College, Wesleyan University, Beloit College, The Brearley School, Bennington College, Cornell University, Ohio State University, New Mexico State University, SUNY Albany, San Francisco State University, and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.
Additional information may be obtained on the web at http://www.vassar.edu/powerhouse/appr.html or by calling Powerhouse at (914) 437-5902. Applications may be sent to Admissions, Box 225, Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, N.Y. 12604-0225.
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