WhatExit? 'Performance Classroom' for Kids in Full Swing

Maplewood’s WhatExit? Theater continues to grow its vibrant theater education programs at the Burgdorff Center for the Performing Arts. The group’s Performance Classroom division is offering a full slate of music theater and improv classes for every age range this winter, led by strong local professionals under the leadership of Artistic Director David Winitsky. 

“Our Performance Classroom philosophy is simple — we want to really stimulate the natural imagination and creativity in the students,” said Winitsky. “It’s amazing to see the confidence that develops during the work, and that really builds appreciation and joy of performing. Most of all, students really have fun!”

The Music Theater class for 1st through 3rd graders began Feb. 7 and runs Mondays at 4 p.m. through May 2. Students are busy creating stories and music while being coached in basic musical theater technique. The Performance Playhouse session takes over from 5:15-6:30 p.m. on Monday; that's when 3rd-5th grade students cast, rehearse and perform in a popular children's show. All aspects of acting, dance/movement and singing are taught and will be on display during a final performance at the session’s close on Wednesday, May 4.

Returning for a second year as WhatExit’s Director of Education, Jenn Crane Turner has been busy from the start. “We looked around at what was being offered, and we were confident that there was a niche,” she explained. “Response from our community has been terrific – we’ve had a lot of great feedback from parents about how we’ve helped conquer their kids’ fears!”

Capitalizing on full classes and a desire to diversify and make more use of a talented staff, WhatExit? will also be offering Improv Comedy classes for kids, teens and adults on Fridays, beginning on March 4 and running through April 8, with a final performance during the last class.

At the helm of these laugh fests is local improv performer and teaching artist LuLu French, who brings an impressive improv resume to the WhatExit? Performance Classroom. Performing regularly with some of the best improv groups in New York, she has also developed a dedicated student following. “Improv is important on so many levels — it really teaches you to listen and work together, which aren’t just theater skills, they’re life skills,” said French.

The Friday improv sessions will run from 4-5:00 p.m. for grades 6-8, with a class for high school students from 5-6:30 p.m. Adults can get in on it too: There will be one-night workshops for adults February 5 and April 30.

You can register for upcoming WhatExit’s Performance Classroom courses at WhatExit’s Performance Classroom web page. For more information contact Jenn Crane Turner at 973-763-4029 or email pc@whatexittheatre.com