Every year, Grand Rapids Civic Theatre’s Mainstage productions see as many as 100 talented, passionate youth audition for only a handful of available roles. Civic Theatre’s School of Theatre Arts saw a need to get these young artists on the stage with full-fledged productions, but without the pressure of an 8-12 week commitment typical of a regular Mainstage production. The solution? Performance Block, a brand new production coming to stage on March 25^th at 6pm and March 26^th at 2pm.

Annie Kids cast rehearses for the first-ever Performance Block.

WHAT IS PERFORMANCE BLOCK?

Performance Block is a 3-week intensive course where students learn and develop not only production skills – reading music, choreography techniques, and how to build believable characters – but also life skills – teamwork, patience, and commitment. With only 3 weeks from auditions to opening night, rehearsals take place every weekday from 7-9pm.

WHAT MAKES THIS PROGRAM DIFFERENT?

This program is different from any class or camp that Civic offers. This class is an opportunity for Civic youth to be a part of a production that is uniquely by children and for children! Every child enrolled in the class is cast in a role and participants experience what it is like to be a part of a full production at Civic with lights, sound, costumes, props, and scenery! Plus, this family-friendly showcase is an affordable opportunity to introduce your child to the magic of live theatre! Preview the magic on both March 25^th and 26^th.

“We’re calling the Performance Block Mainstage Light, an opportunity for students to experience what it would be like to do a Mainstage production at Civic with lights, sound, costumes, props, scenery and a daily rehearsal schedule.”  — Allyson Paris, Associate Director

WHO CAN REGISTER FOR PERFORMANCE BLOCK?

Performance Block is offered for grades 2-3, as well as 4-12. Every child that registers for the class is cast in a role, and anyone who has filled the perquisite classes can register! To determine if your child has fulfilled the requirements, please contact our office at 616-222-6653.

Annie with her beloved dog, Sandy.

Currently, Performance Block is working hard on The Adventures of Rocky & Skye and Annie Kids. Annie Kids. Director Kristin Tomlin says, “It’s been fantastic to hear the amazing voices of these students and see the excitement in their eyes and smiles each night.”

 Are you looking to preview this fresh and affordable family theatre experience?

Join Civic Theatre for the Performance Block debut of The Adventures of Rocky & Skye and Annie Kids.  The Performance Block brings special youth theatre, created by children – for children, to West Michigan families. Performances are March 25^th at 6pm and March 26^th at 2pm. General seating tickets are $5, and the show is approximately 90 minutes with a 10 minute intermission. Don’t miss this unique production! Psst, there’s even a live dog in the cast!