Youth classes are offered in four 6-week sessions, with classes meeting once a week.
2025-2026 Youth Classes
Youth classes are offered in four 6-week sessions, with classes meeting once a week.
The planned session dates for the 2026-2026 school year are:
- Session 1: September 10 – October 19, 2025
- Session 2: October 29 – December 14, 2025 (no classes November 26-29)
- Session 3: January 14 – February 22, 2026
- Session 4: March 11 – April 26, 2026 (no weekly classes April 1 – 4)
- Spring Break Camp: March 30 – April 3, 2026
Class Registration
Registration opens Monday, June 16th.
>> Please CLICK HERE to bookmark our class registration website! <<
Middle School Year Long Class
“Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the world of theatre! This year-long ensemble course takes middle school students on a creative adventure—building performance skills, gaining stage confidence, and exploring every corner of the theatrical map. From acting and movement to voice and technical theatre, students will chart their course through hands-on, dynamic instruction.
Along the way, they’ll prepare for future auditions and discover their unique artistic voice. Families can conveniently enroll for the full year, following the regular session schedule. The journey concludes with a final destination worth celebrating: a fully staged, one-act play that showcases the talent and growth of every young performer.
Because when you travel a year to play… every stop is a chance to shine.”
Middle School Ensemble (grades 6 – 8)
Saturdays, 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
This course will give students performance experience and prepare students with the skills and confidence to audition for future show opportunities. Students will learn about acting, movement, directing, and technical theatre throughout the year that will culminate in a full-length one-act play.
Registration fee: $740 (non-refundable $50 deposit and option to pay in installments)
Session 1
September 10 – October 19
Story Drama Together (age 2 – pre K + caregiver): Kindness Counts
Saturdays, 9:30 am – 10:15 am
Young children and their caregivers join together to explore stories through movement and imaginative play. Centered around the theme of kindness, each session introduces age-appropriate drama activities that encourage empathy, sharing, and friendship. Through guided storytelling and creative expression, little ones build early social-emotional skills while bonding with their grown-ups in a playful, supportive environment.
Registration fee: $100
Playmakers (grades K-2): The Magical World of Song & Dance
Wednesdays, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Thursdays, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm, or Saturdays, 9:30 am – 10:30 am
Calling all young stars! In this fun and energetic class, students in grades K-2 will explore the joy of singing and dancing together. Through lively songs, simple choreography, and creative movement activities, children will build rhythm, coordination, and confidence in a playful, supportive setting. This class is a wonderful way for young performers to discover their love for music and dance while having a magical time on their feet!
Registration fee: $135
Actor’s Toolbox (grades 3-5): Page to Stage
Wednesdays, 5:00 pm – 6:15 pm, Thursdays, 5:00 pm – 6:15 pm, or Saturdays, 9:30 am – 10:45 am
Students will develop skills in text analysis, character development, staging a scene, and memorization. They will work collaboratively with a scene partner to bring a scene from a contemporary play to life on stage.
Registration fee: $155
Middle School Ensemble (grades 6-8): Improv/Quick Thinking, Big Laughs!
Saturdays, 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
“Get ready to think fast, laugh loud, and act on your feet! In this high-energy class, middle school students will dive into the fundamentals of improvisation—learning to create characters, scenes, and stories without a script. Through fun and fast-paced games, students will build confidence, boost creativity, and strengthen their communication and collaboration skills.
Whether they’re creating wild scenarios or reacting in the moment, students will learn the power of saying “yes, and…” as they become better performers and teammates. Perfect for beginners and budding comedians alike, this class is all about quick thinking and big fun!”
Registration fee: $185
High School Performance Skills (grades 9-12): Perfecting your 16 Bars
Saturdays, 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Explore and sharpen your musical theatre audition skills and make a strong impression–in just 16 bars. Students will learn how to choose the right audition cut, interpret lyrics with clarity and emotion, and deliver polished, confident performances. With focused coaching on vocal technique, acting through song, and audition preparation, this class helps students fine-tune their audition material and walk into any audition room ready to shine.
Registration fee: $185
Session 2
October 29 – December 14
(No class on November 26 – 30)
Story Drama (age 3 – Pre K) Little Dreamers
Saturdays, 9:30 am – 10:30 am
In this imaginative and playful class, young learners will step into the world of storytelling as they explore characters, create plots, and bring various ideas to life. Students will build ensemble skills as they collaborate with peers, act out beloved storybooks, and dream up original tales of their own. Through movement, dramatic play, and guided creativity, children will grow in confidence, communication, and imagination—all while having a joyful time in a supportive environment made for little dreamers!
Registration fee: $135
Playmakers (grades K-2): Stories Across Cultures
Wednesdays, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Thursdays, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm, or Saturdays, 9:30 am – 10:30 am
Students explore learning key acting skills and practice the art of storytelling. Using communication skills, collaboration, and creativity, students will work as a team to create their own story based on stories from various cultures.
Registration fee: $135
Actor’s Toolbox (grades 3-5): Stories Reimagined
Wednesdays, 5:00 pm – 6:15 pm, Thursdays, 5:00 pm – 6:15 pm, or Saturdays, 9:30 am – 10:45 am
In this creative and fun acting class, students will unlock their imaginations by retelling familiar stories in brand-new ways! Through acting exercises, movement, and ensemble work, young performers will explore character, setting, and story structure while learning the tools every actor needs–focus, collaboration, voice, and body awareness.
Registration fee: $155
Middle School Ensemble (grades 6-8): Perfecting your Musical Theatre Audition
Saturdays, 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
“Take center stage with confidence! In this dynamic class, middle school students will develop essential vocal techniques to elevate their musical theatre performances. Through focused work on vocal tone, harmony, and expressive singing, students will learn how to bring emotion and character to life through song.
They’ll also strengthen their stage presence, refine audition etiquette, and practice choosing and performing songs that showcase their unique strengths. Designed to build both skill and self-assurance, this class empowers students to deliver standout auditions with poise, passion, and polish.”
Registration fee: $185
High School Performance Skills (grades 9-12): Scene Work: Cue the Drama
Saturdays, 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
“Ready to elevate your acting? This high-energy class takes high school performers on a deep dive into the art of scene work. Students will sharpen their performance skills through character development, script analysis, and collaborative, partner-based scenes.
From mastering comedic timing to building dramatic tension, students will learn to listen, react authentically, and make bold, informed choices on stage. Perfect for those preparing for auditions or looking to deepen their craft, this class is all about bringing powerful scenes to life with confidence and creativity.
The spotlight’s waiting—cue the drama!”
Registration fee: $185
Session 3
January 14 – February 22
Story Drama Together (age 2 – Pre K + caregiver): Creative Imagination
Saturdays, 9:30 am – 10:15 am
In this creative class, students will dive into stories through movement, imaginative play, and expressive exploration. Designed to spark creativity and curiosity, the class encourages students to bring characters and adventures to life using their bodies, voices, and imaginations. Through playful exploration and storytelling, students should leave this class with confidence, collaboration skills, and a deeper love for narrative arts.
Registration fee: $100
Playmakers (grades K-2): Super Sidekicks
Wednesdays, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Thursdays, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm, or Saturdays, 9:30 am – 10:30 am
Calling all little heroes and their trusty sidekicks! This playful and imaginative drama class invites youth to step into the exciting world of superheroes, where teamwork, kindness, and creativity save the day. Through fun stories, movement, role-play, and simple dramatic activities, children will explore what it means to be a hero’s helper—using their imaginations to solve problems, work together, and build confidence. This joyful experience nurtures social skills, early communication, and creative expression in a warm, supportive environment. Perfect for curious students ready to unleash their superpowers of friendship and fun!
Registration fee: $135
Actor’s Toolbox (grades 3-5): Sing, Dance, Imagine!
Wednesdays, 5:00 pm – 6:15 pm, Thursdays, 5:00 pm – 6:15 pm, or Saturdays, 9:30 am – 10:45 am
“Step into the spotlight and let your creativity shine! In this foundational theatre class for grades 3–5, students will develop essential performance skills through focused work in singing, dancing, and imaginative storytelling. With age-appropriate instruction, young actors will learn vocal technique, basic choreography, and how to use body and voice to express character.
Emphasis is placed on skill development, creative collaboration, and building confidence on stage. By the end of the week, students will apply what they’ve learned in a final showcase that highlights their growth as young performers.”
Registration fee: $155
Middle School Ensemble (grades 6-8): Stage Combat: Art of the Fight
Saturdays, 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Enter the world of swashbuckling stage combat! In this fun, high-energy class, students will learn the fundamentals of theatrical fighting using both the single sword—the most common weapon in stage combat—and unarmed techniques, such as punches, slaps, falls, and more. Through safe, choreographed fights, students will build skills in footwork, timing, and storytelling through movement.
By the end of the course, students will confidently perform a staged fight scene, mastering the art of safe, dramatic combat—with and without weapons.
No experience needed—just a love for action and performance!
Registration fee: $185
High School Performance Skills (grades 9-12): Landing the Role
Saturdays, 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Have you noticed your student’s dedication to landing a role in their school show? Sign them up for this class so your high schooler can learn what it takes to be fully prepared for auditions. This class helps students build the skills and confidence needed to perform at their best. With a focus on delivering memorable monologues, students will gain a deeper understanding of what directors look for in performers and leave feeling confident that they can give their best audition every time.
Registration fee: $185
Session 4
March 11 – April 26
(No Class on April 1 – 4)
Story Drama (age 3 – Pre K): Rhythms and Tales
Saturdays, 9:30 am – 10:30 am
In this lively and imaginative class, students will explore the magic of storytelling through music, rhythm, and movement. young learners will dive into stories using their bodies, voices, songs, and DIY instruments they help create. Through beats, creative play, and collaborative exploration, students will build early drama skills, strengthen coordination and listening, and discover the joy of bringing tales to life in a playful, rhythm-filled environment where imagination takes center stage.
Registration fee: $135
Playmakers (grades K-2): Into the Imaginarium
Wednesdays, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Thursdays, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm, or Saturdays, 9:30 am – 10:30 am
“Welcome to the Imaginarium: a space where stories come to life and creativity knows no bounds! In this hands-on theatre class, creativity takes center stage as students journey through the world of storytelling using movement, dramatic play, and expressive exploration. Designed to spark creativity and curiosity, the class encourages students to step into new characters, act out whimsical adventures, and discover the joy of using their bodies, voices, and imaginations to bring stories to life. Through playful exploration and storytelling, students should leave this class with confidence, collaboration skills, and a deeper love for narrative arts.
All aboard—next stop: the Imaginarium!”
Registration fee: $135
Actor’s Toolbox (grades 3-5): Act it Out
Wednesdays, 5:00 pm – 6:15 pm, Thursdays, 5:00 pm – 6:15 pm, or Saturdays, 9:30 am – 10:45 am
“Perfect for beginners and welcoming to all experience levels, this lively class invites students to explore the actor’s essential tools: body, voice, and imagination. Through fun, collaborative games and activities, students will develop skills in improvisation, storytelling, and character creation.
Each week offers new theatre challenges designed to build confidence, creativity, and teamwork, making “”Act It Out!”” the ideal first step for young performers ready to bring stories to life.”
Registration fee: $155
Middle School Ensemble (grades 6-8): Scene Study
Saturdays, 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
In this engaging and collaborative class, students will explore the fundamentals of acting through scene work. They’ll learn key skills such as text analysis, character development, blocking (staging), and memorization. Working in pairs, students will bring scenes from contemporary plays to life, building confidence, creativity, and teamwork along the way. The course culminates in a classroom performance where students showcase their work.
Registration fee: $185
High School Performance Skills (grades 9-12): Stage Combat: Art of the Fight
Saturdays, 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
“Enter the world of swashbuckling stage combat! In this fun, high-energy class, students will learn the fundamentals of theatrical fighting using both the single sword—the most common weapon in stage combat—and unarmed techniques, such as punches, slaps, falls, and more. Through safe, choreographed fights, students will build skills in footwork, timing, and storytelling through movement.
By the end of the course, students will confidently perform a staged fight scene, mastering the art of safe, dramatic combat—with and without weapons.
No experience needed—just a love for action and performance!”
Registration fee: $185
If you have any questions regarding setting up an account or using our registration system, please email Education@nullRaleighLittleTheatre.org.
Scholarships
Financial assistance is available for all youth classes. Whether your household would benefit from full tuition coverage or partial assistance, we want you to have what you need. Visit our Scholarships page to learn more about the application process!
If you’d like to make a donation to our education scholarship fund, click here to donate online, designating it for the RLT Scholarship Fund.
Accessibility & Inclusion
RLT is committed to making our education programs accessible and engaging for all students. Please note any specific accommodations your student needs on the registration form when signing them up for class. RLT staff will then follow up to discuss your student’s needs and our capacity for support. Accommodations that we have experience providing include: wheelchair accessible class spaces, large print materials, setting up a visit to RLT before class begins, making fidgets available to support student listening, supporting students to take a break when needed and designing activities to accommodate sensory sensitivities or needs. If students work with a 1:1 aide, the aide is welcome to attend class alongside your student. If there is something that would make a difference for our teaching artists to know ahead of time regarding engagement and support for your student, please share it with us before class begins.
Please contact us at 919-821-4579 x 245 with any questions or concerns regarding accessibility or to discuss other ways we can ensure a positive, engaging experience for your student.
Refund Policy for Classes
All classes must be paid in full at registration. There is a $2.49 non refundable Course Storm fee per registration. There is a refund fee of 7.75% of registration. Refunds minus the fees ($2.49 + 7.75%), will only be made if the student officially withdraws 2 weeks before the start of a class.
Spring Break & Summer camps have a $50 deposit and $2.49 Course Storm fee per registration that are not refundable at any time. There is a refund fee of 7.75% of registration. Refunds, minus the $50 deposit and Course Storm fee, will only be made if the student officially withdraws 2 weeks before the start of class.
To officially withdraw from a class or camp, please email Education@nullRaleighLittleTheatre.org.
If you withdraw from class less than 2 weeks prior to a class or camp, there are no refunds. But you can transfer your registration to another class or receive a credit. This credit is in the amount of the registration fee that can be applied to a future class within a year.
If a class is canceled due to low enrollment, you will have the option to switch into another class or receive a full refund.
Open Class Visits (for Ages 2 – Pre K)
Classes for students aged 4 to Grade 2 will offer parents the opportunity to observe either the 4th or 5th class of the session to get a first-hand idea of what is going on in your child’s class. We offer an open classroom over a “performance” experience so that our youngest students can focus on the process of theatre, rather than a finished product.
End of Session Class Sharings (for Grades K-12)
Classes for Grades 3-12 end with an informal sharing of student work for family and friends. Students attend the last class at the usual time, and then we invite families to join us for the last portion of class to see their work and hear their reflections on what they’ve learned. The sharing is an opportunity for students to practice the skill of performing in front of an audience. Class sharings vary depending on the class grade and topics, and often include a showcase of favorite theatre skill building games, short scenes or monologues, or an original performance created by the students.
COVID-19 Health and Safety
You can read more about our class safety procedures here.
Masks will be optional for students, teaching artists, and teaching assistants for both indoor and outdoor classes. Masks will remain optional unless COVID-19 case numbers rise to put Wake County in the red (high) level, as defined by the CDC. Students, teaching artists, and teaching assistants will be notified upon arrival if masks are required. Regardless of mask requirements, the refund policy still applies.
RLT’s Youth Education Program is supported by the United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake County, as well as the N.C. Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
