ENGAGING · CHALLENGING · REWARDING
The Summer Shakespeare Academy (for ages 6 – 18) combines professional acting instruction and classic literature in a creative environment where students develop self-confidence and creativity and engage in teamwork and collaboration — all in the setting of an acclaimed regional theatre.
Members of the Academy become part of a vibrant artistic community that shares an unwavering commitment to excellence. For this reason, many Academy members choose to continue their relationship with us. Our alumni have returned in subsequent years to participate in our Summer Professional Training Program and in Main Stage productions. These alumni are proof of the Shakespeare Theatre's dedication to nurturing the next generation of theatre artists and audiences.
NEW PROGRAM: Camp Shakespeare (1 Week, Ages 6-9)
August 10 – August 14, 2026
Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
2026 Tutition: $700
Introducing our brand-new program — Camp Shakespeare! This is a one-week program designed for any and all, ages 6 – 9. Over the course of a week, participants will explore Shakespeare through creative movement, storytelling, and beginner-friendly acting activities. With plenty of laughter, teamwork, and guidance from the Shakespeare Theatre Education staff, students will discover the joy of the stage while building confidence — all in a supportive, high-energy environment perfect for budding actors.
Shakespeare's Players, Jr. (2 Weeks, Ages 10-14)
July 27 – August 7, 2026
Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
2026 Tutition: $1,200
($100 discount for returning students, subscribers, and siblings)
Shakespeare's Players, Jr. is a two-week summer acting program for young artists (ages 10 – 14) ranging from first-time performers to budding stars. Members of Shakespeare's Players, Jr. participate in daily classes (Monday – Friday, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.) under the direction of The Shakespeare Theatre's Education staff, and meet with the Theatre's professional resident artists in master classes and discussions.
Each day is varied, fast-paced, and exciting! The focus of Shakespeare's Players, Jr. is ensemble work — and each two-week session culminates in a final presentation that involves the entire group performing a theatrical version of a piece of classic literature. Previous groups have performed works such as The Odyssey, Julius Caesar, and Beowulf! Parents, friends, and professional company members all attend these final showings.
Shakespeare's Players (3 Weeks, Ages 14-18)
July 6 – July 24, 2026
Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
2026 Tuition: $1,600
($100 discount for returning students, subscribers, and siblings)
Shakespeare's Players is a three-week summer acting intensive for teens (ages 14 – 18) who are serious about growing as performers. Building on the skills introduced at the Junior level, Shakespeare's Players features a special focus on Shakespeare and the individual actor. The three-week session culminates in a final presentation of an abridged Shakespeare text. Previous groups have performed works such as Julius Caesar, As You Like It, The Tempest, and A Midsummer Night's Dream! Prior participation in the Junior level is not required.
Members of Shakespeare's Players participate in daily classes (Monday – Friday, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.) under the direction of The Shakespeare Theatre’s Education staff, and meet with The Theatre's professional resident artists in master classes and discussions. Each day is varied, fast-paced, and exciting! Classes focus on acting, text analysis, characterization, bringing Shakespeare's language to life through voice and movement, audition techniques, and more! Each student also comes away with a rehearsed and critiqued Shakespeare monologue of their choice — a great asset when auditioning for colleges and other theatre programs.
Location
All classes, rehearsals, and performances take place on the campus of Drew University in Madison, NJ or at the Shakespeare Theatre's Thomas H. Kean Theatre Factory in Florham Park, NJ.
Attendance Policy
We at The Shakespeare Theatre believe that commitment and dedication are crucial components of the theatre education experience. Summer Shakespeare Academy members are held to the same high standards as the rest of our company. Each student must attend all classes, workshops, and rehearsals, and must be on time. Students may not arrive late or leave early. All students will be involved in the rehearsal of a piece to be performed at the end of each session, and their absence will impair the work of the group as a whole. Students will be excused only for serious illnesses, legitimate family emergencies, or pre-arranged conflicts.
Food Policy
During the day, classes and rehearsals meet in sessions of 60 – 120 minutes. We will take a lunch break midday as well as two or three breaks per day of about 10 minutes each. Meals and snacks are not provided, so students will need to bring a packed lunch and may wish to pack a snack and/or bring money for vending machines on campus. Please note: there will not be access to refrigeration or microwaves. Students should plan accordingly.
For more information, please contact the Education Department at Education@ShakespeareNJ.org or call (973) 845-6742.