DCT Jr. Summer Performing Program

DCT Jr. is a comprehensive, immersive theatre experience for young actors, supported by a professional creative staff of directors and designers at the Downtown Cabaret Theatre in downtown Bridgeport. Both sessions will step through the phases of creating a musical, starting with the initial audition and followed by a multi-week rehearsal process. The programs will culminate in two exciting weekends of performances where family and friends can enjoy the students’ hard work as it comes together live on the Cabaret Stage. No previous experience required.

WHAT WE WILL DO EACH DAY: The day will begin with vocal and physical warm-ups, and then we will rehearse the show until lunch. After lunch, we will play theatre games that teach participants about improvisation, focus, confidence, and character building. We will also teach theatre technique, including projection, diction, as well as some dance and voice technique. For the younger children, we will also spend some time building some props and costumes for the show.

ABOUT THE SHOWS

BYE BYE BIRDIE (Entering grades 6-12 in Fall 2016): A timeless classic! Conrad Birdie is the biggest rock & roll star of the 60’s ever to be drafted. Aspiring chemist and songwriter Albert is convinced he can make his fortune and marry his girlfriend Rosie if he gets Conrad on the Ed Sullivan show to kiss a high school girl goodbye.” A NOTE ON CASTING: Based on demand, if attendance is strong we may double cast the show. Regardless, each student is guaranteed two performances in their role.

PRINCESS AND THE PEA (Entering grades 1-6 in Fall 2016): A DCT Original! When a handsome young prince falls in love with an unknown princess, there is only one way to prove she is true royalty. Based on the story by Hans Christian Andersen, this new retelling of the classic story is filled with music, fun, and a few surprises along the way.  A NOTE ON CASTING: Based on demand, if attendance is strong we may double cast the show. Regardless, each student is guaranteed two performances in their role.

DCT RISING STARS: In addition to starring in BYE BYE BIRDIE and PRINCESS AND THE PEA, our participants will also star in an open mic night where they can showcase their talents by performing scenes and songs from their favorite musicals and plays! This performance will involve both age groups and be an excellent chance to show off and play parts they’ve always wanted to play!

DATES AND TIMES

ORIENTATION:  Saturday, June 25 from 11am-12pm.  Students and parents will meet the staff and each other, receive audition materials, and tour the theatre!

BYE BYE BIRDIE (Entering grades 6-12 in Fall 2016):  Program runs
June 27 – July 31.  Rehearsals are Monday-Friday June 27 – July 29 from 9:30am-3pm (drop-off beginning 9am, pickup window 3pm-3:30pm). DCT RISING STARS Performance is July 15 @ 7:30pm. BYE BYE BIRDIE performances are Friday, July 29 at 7:30pm, Saturday, July 30 at 4pm and 7:30pm, and Sunday, July 31 at 2pm. Closing party/strike immediately following the July 31 2pm performance.  July 4 is an observed holiday and there is no program that day.

PRINCESS AND THE PEA (Entering grades 1-6 in Fall 2016):  Program runs July 5 – July 24. Rehearsals are Monday-Friday July 5 – July 22 from 9:30am-3pm (drop-off beginning 9am, pickup window 3pm-3:30pm. ADDITIONALLY: parents of younger children may opt for earlier pickup times if desired, please contact us for more info). DCT RISING STARS Performance is July 15 @ 7:30pm. PRINCESS AND THE PEA performances are Friday, July 22 at 7:30pm, Saturday, July 23 at 4pm and 7:30pm, and Sunday, July 24 at 2pm.  Closing party/strike immediately following the July 24th 2pm performance.  July 4 is an observed holiday and there is no program that day.

DCT RISING STARS:  Friday, July 15 at 7:30pm.