Vero Beach, FL – The popular Backstage Access classes return for the 2023-2024 season. These series of adult courses take a closer look at the professional productions being presented at the Theatre and this season, classes have been added on the intricacies of producing theater from a business aspect.
Kevin Quillinan, Director of Theatre Education, will lead the classes that are production oriented and Jon R. Moses, Managing Director/COO, will lead the classes that focus on the business aspects of Riverside’s productions.
“Along with all the great programming we have for young people, we wanted to continue our educational opportunities for adults,” says Allen D. Cornell, Producing Artistic Director of Riverside Theatre. “We explore theatre as an art form by examining specific plays on Riverside’s calendar, studying the show’s history, and learning about our production through visits with guest artists. This year, we’ve added a more comprehensive look at business aspects of producing theater.”
Backstage Access classes are part lecture, part seminar, part participation, part discussion, and seek to build a greater awareness of the many facets and collaborations involved in mounting a show.
The classes and schedules are as follows:
Jersey Boys Class
Jersey Boys – This class will focus on the impact Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons had on the radio and the music industry.
Course Dates: Meets Thursdays 10am to 12noon (December 21, 28 & January 4)
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Producing Theatre Class
Producing Theatre 1 – A comprehensive overview of what it takes to run a professional regional theatre.
Course Dates: Meets Thursdays 10am to 12noon (January 11 & 18).
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Morning After Grace Class
Morning After Grace – This course will look at this new, funny and heart-warming play by female playwright, Carey Crim.
Course Dates: Meets Thursdays 10am to 12noon (January 25 & February 1)
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Kinky Boots Class
Kinky Boots – This class will delve into this true story that inspired this musical. It will also give a history of its well-known authors, Cyndi Lauper and Harvey Fierstein.
Course Dates: Meets Thursdays 10am to 12noon (February 8, 15 & 22)
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Producing Theatre Redux Class
Producing Theatre 2 – Another comprehensive overview of what it takes to run a professional regional theatre.
Course Dates: Meets Thursdays 10am to 12noon (February 29 & March 7)
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Yankee Tavern Class
Yankee Tavern – This class will explore Steven Dietz’ play and the stories surrounding the September 11th tragedy.
Course Dates: Meets Thursdays 10am to 12noon (March 14 & 21)
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On Your Feet Class
On Your Feet – This course will look at the challenges and perseverance of Emilio and Gloria Estfan as they left Cuba to become internationally acclaimed musicians.
Course Dates: Meets Thursdays 10am to 12noon (March 28, April 4 & 11)
Tuition for each two or three-week class is $75. Class sizes are limited. Patron Producers and Upper Level donors are entitled to some free tickets for the classes. Call the Box Office for details. To purchase, call 772-231-6990 or go online at www.riversidetheatre.com.
Riverside Theatre is located at 3250 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach, FL 32963. Riverside Theatre programs are sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Riverside Theatre is a member of the Cultural Council of Indian River County, the Indian River Chamber of Commerce, and the Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce.
