WEST HARTFORD/SIMSBURY, CT — The West Hartford-based Playhouse Theatre Academy has opened registration for its 2026-27 season of youth theater programs, with classes for children ages 3 to 13 offered in West Hartford and Simsbury.
Classes begin Sept. 29 and continue through May 2027, with fall, winter, and spring sessions covering acting, musical theater, creative drama, improvisation, and storytelling.
The academy is part of the prominent Playhouse on Park theater group, located at 244 Park Road, West Hartford.
In addition to West Hartford, the academy hosts classes in Simsbury as well, with children from all over welcome.
Programs for younger children include Drama Sprouts and Little Thespians, with activities built around themes such as pirates, mermaids and fairy tales.
Older students can participate in POP Stars, a musical theater program featuring material inspired by productions including "Descendants" and "The Greatest Showman." Playhouse Studio classes will focus on acting, improvisation, and LEGO storytelling.
Students seeking a full production experience can participate in Mini-Mainstage Musicals: "The SpongeBob Musical," a 20-week rehearsal-and-performance program.
Children ages 6 to 8 can participate in a beginners group, while students ages 9 to 13 will make up the primary cast. The program will culminate in a fully staged production at Playhouse on Park.
"Our goal is to create a brave space where every child feels like they belong — where they're free to take risks, fail forward, and grow," said Kevin Cronin, director of education and community engagement.
Cronin said the academy develops its own curriculum with the goal of encouraging curiosity and building skills beyond the stage.
"Whether a student is stepping into a theatre classroom for the very first time or preparing for their next big role, we want them to discover confidence, kindness, creativity, and the joy of storytelling," Cronin said.
The academy offers a 10% discount for students registering for two classes and 20% off for three or more classes. Free trial classes for new students, interest-free payment plans, scholarships, and sibling and cousin discounts are also available.
Families can find schedules and registration information through Playhouse Theatre Academy or call 860-523-5900, ext. 16.
For more information and to register, click on this link.
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