Summer Shakespeare
ENGAGING · CHALLENGING · REWARDING
The Summer Shakespeare Corps (for ages 10-18) 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 Corps become part of a vibrant artistic community that shares an unwavering commitment to excellence. For this reason, many Corps 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.
Junior Corps (Ages 10-14)
July 28 – August 8, 2025
Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
$1,100 per student
($100 discount for returning students, subscribers, and siblings)
The Junior Corps is an affordable two-week summer acting program for all types of kids, from first-time performers to budding stars. Members of the Junior Corps 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 the Junior Corps program is ensemble — 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. Parents, friends, and professional company members all attend these final showings.
Senior Corps (Ages 14-18)
July 7 – July 25, 2025
Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
$1,550 per student
($100 discount for returning students, subscribers, and siblings)
The Senior Corps is an affordable three-week summer acting intensive for teens (14 – 18 years old) who are serious about growing as performers. Building on the skills introduced at the Junior Corps level, the Senior Corps features a special focus on Shakespeare and the individual actor. The three-week session culminates in a final Shakespeare presentation. Prior participation in the Junior Corps is not required.
Members of the Senior Corps 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, analysis and characterization, bringing Shakespeare's language to life, audition techniques, and other areas specific to their presentation. 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 support facility in Florham Park. Our main classroom facility, as well as the location for daily drop-off and pick-up of students, will be on Drew University's campus.
Attendance Policy
We at The Shakespeare Theatre believe that commitment and dedication are crucial components of the theatre education experience. Shakespeare Corps 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
For Junior & Senior Corps (Full Day Programs)
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.