theatre

devlogosThe Devonshire theatre program includes the Devonshire Theatre Arts Academy as well as Thin Ice Ensemble Theatre classes. These programs are loosely based on conservatory-style theatre education presented in many leading dramatic institutions. The programs contain wonderful elements of acting and musical theatre and a comprehensive curriculum. All students will also learn cooperation and social interaction skills, discover self-confidence and creativity within themselves –– all while having fun and making friends.

info-icon2 Robin Horwitz, Devonshire Theatre Arts Academy Supervisor
info-icon2 Rebecca Goldberg, Thin Ice Ensemble Theatre Supervisor

Encores I, II & III - Musical

Includes script analysis on theme, plot, construction, action and dialogue to help the actor develop full rich characters. Includes: challenging solo acting, vocal, and or dance work. Special sessions include: stage combat, on-camera work for film auditions, makeup and costume preparation. Instructor: Kayleah Wilson
Encores I, II & III - Musical
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/7-3/11
5:30 pm- 6:30 pm
AGES
13 - 17
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Magic Class

Amaze your friends with tricks involving cards, ropes, coins and mind-reading. Each seasonal class offers new tricks. Instructor: The Magic Team of Gary Kantor
Magic Class
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/15
5:00 pm- 5:55 pm
AGES
5 - 12
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Unavailable

Beginning Scene Study

Build your acting chops! Focus on beginning acting technique through group and scene work. Exercises in diction, pronunciation and projection combined with scene and group work will be incorporated. Scene study classes are designed to develop and strengthen your acting skills and transfer to Thin Ice’s larger productions. A showcase will be presented at the final class. Instructor: Eileen Hand
Beginning Scene Study
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/13-3/3
10:00 am-11:30 am
AGES
9 - 12
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Thin Ice March Show-Little Women

In a Civil War-torn world defined by gender, class, and personal tragedy, Jo March gives us her greatest story: that of her and her sisters, four dreamers destined to be imperfect little women. Novel by Louisa May Alcott. Auditions are held December 16. Auditions are required and should be scheduled prior to registration. To schedule an audition, email rgoldberg@skokieparks.org Director: Kayleah Wilson.
Thin Ice March Show- Little Women
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/14-3/13
12:00 pm- 3:00 pm
AGES
14 - 18
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Mini Playmakers I, II & III

Young artists develop foundational skills and techniques designed to strengthen confidence, self-expression, focus and social skills as well as inspiring creativity through dramatic play, imaginative theatre games, storytelling, dance and song. Students dramatize their own stories as instructors prepare them to be in the full production. Instructor: Allison Grabarcyk
Mini-Playmakers I, II & III
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/9-3/20
5:30 pm- 6:15 pm
AGES
5 - 8
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Musical Theatre

Sing your way to fame and light up the Broadway stage. Learn songs, scenes and choreography from the Broadway greats, past and present. Solo and ensemble work will be part of this class. A showcase will end the session. Instructor: Kayleah Wilson
Musical Theatre
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/17-3/7
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
12 - 18
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Young Performers

All who register are cast. Director: Gayle Starr Musical Director: Jay Torrens Choreographer: Cydney Moody. The musical centers on a baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King's festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a witch's curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse, and wind up changed forever. Rehearsals: 1/6-3/20 (M, T & Th 5:30-8:30P & Sun. 1-4P). Technical Rehearsals: March 30-April 3. Pick-up Rehearsal: April 8 / 5:30-8:30P. Holidays: March 23-27. Performances: Saturdays, April 5/7P(call 5:30P), Sunday, April 6/3P(call 1:30P), Friday, April 11/7P(call 5:30P) & Saturday, April 12/2P(call 12:30P).
Young Performers - Into The Woods Jr.
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/6-4/3
5:30 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
8 - 13
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Thin Ice - Shrek Jr.

Thin Ice Ensemble is looking for home school students ages 8-18 who would like to act on stage. Everyone who registers receives a part! Regular rehearsals: Mondays, 12-3 p.m., January 13-May 2. Tuesday rehearsals will be added beginning March 18. Technical rehearsals: 12-4 p.m., April 28-May 2. Performances: May 2 & 3 at 7P and May 3 & 4 at 3P. Director: Kayleah Wilson Musical Director: Timothy Wolf
Thin Ice -Shrek Jr.
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/13-4/28
12:00 pm- 3:00 pm
AGES
8 - 18
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Advanced Scene Study

Students will focus on concept pitches and design conversations regarding their plays. Each week students will develop a presentation for the design element in question (scenic, lights, costumes, etc.). We will build a complete picture of the play and help to develop a “director’s eye.” Students will have a final presentation through a single scene from their play that implements all the components of the previous weeks. Instructor: Eileen Hand.
Advanced Scene Study
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/15-3/5
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
12 - 18
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Spotlights I, II & III-Comedy/Drama

The young actor develops full rich characters, while practicing truthful use of self in imaginary circumstances. Students work in stage combat along with fundamentals to support general American dialect. They have fun behind-the-camera for one session, then experiment with makeup, costumes, lighting, sound, props and set design. Instructor: Tyler Skafgaard with specialists. Includes: students utilizing improvisation, modern comedy/drama and/or Shakespearean scenes. Instructor: Tyler Skafgaard
Spotlights I, II & III-Comedy/Drama
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/8-3/12
6:00 pm- 7:00 pm
AGES
11 - 13
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Speakeasy Theatre Cast

Will provide description for this activity in read me.
Speakeasy Theatre Cast
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/3-1/31
7:00 pm-10:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available
Speakeasy Theatre Cast
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/7-2/28
7:00 pm-10:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available
Speakeasy Theatre Cast
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
3/7-3/28
7:00 pm-10:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Professional Photo Headshots

Only use Read-Me for Brochure Ad. Get professional headshots for performance auditions or business at the low cost of $150. Local photographer, Bruce Lorie even offers a $25 discount if you are a Devonshire Playhouse Alum! You receive 5 high resolution large digital shots also available in low resolution for online use. with your name printed on one shots with their name printed at the bottom corner. Contact us at Rhhorwitz@SkokieParks.Org for more details and/or to schedule your 3/4 hour appointment on between 11A-4P either January 25, February 15 or March 15.
Actors' Headshots
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/25
11:00 am- 4:00 pm
AGES
8 - 99
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available
Actors' Headshots
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/15
11:00 am- 4:00 pm
AGES
8 - 99
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available
Actors' Headshots
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
3/15
11:00 am- 4:00 pm
AGES
8 - 99
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Broadway Bound I, II & III-Comedy/Drama

Students learn to develop character and practice truthful use of self in imaginary circumstances. Students explore theatre of other cultures, experience brief work in front of and behind the camera plus theatre makeup, costume/prop selection and lighting/sound basics. Includes: improvisation, scripted scenes, Commedia D’ell Arte (physical/slapstick humor), character movement and basic stage combat. Lead Instructor: Tyler Skafgaard.
Broadway Bound-Comedy/Drama I, II & III
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/8-3/12
5:00 pm- 6:00 pm
AGES
8 - 11
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Script Reading Happy Hour

Each fun evening is hosted by a different Playhouse theatre director or instructor, who will introduce both new original works and classics. The January and March script readings will be on Fridays from 5-8P and in February, it is held Sunday from 4-7P. Pre-register to be a reader. Audience drop-ins are welcome! Alcoholic refreshments only available to those age 21+ (ID required). Directors include: Brian Rooney, Eileen Hand and Tyler Skafgaard.
Script Reading Happy Hour
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/17
5:00 pm- 8:00 pm
AGES
14 - 99
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available
Script Reading Happy Hour
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/9
4:00 pm- 7:00 pm
AGES
14 - 99
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Technical Theatre Apprentice I & II

This class offers behind the scenes instruction and experience for youth & adults who want to assist in stagecraft areas. Students complete script analysis and explore principles of make-up design, three-dimensional performance environments, costume construction, experience role of props master, lighting and sound operation basics and procedures for front-of-house operations. Advanced students select 2-3 areas of focus on which they will receive advanced concentration Successful participation earns students in crew opportunities in theatre class showcases or on upcoming productions. Instructors: Evans Poulos, Patty Mueller, Carlie Casas, Paul Pint, Robin Horwitz and Gayle Starr.
Technical Theatre Apprentice I & II
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/9-3/20
6:00 pm- 7:00 pm
AGES
12 - 99
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Little Stars I & II

Is your tot a born performer? If so, this class will serve as their acting debut! Imaginative play, singing, acting, movement, musical theatre games, stories and dance will all be combined in a playful, creative environment to establish the building blocks of performing arts and nurture self-esteem. Lead instructor: Michelle Nano.
Little Stars I & II
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/9-3/20
4:30 pm- 5:15 pm
AGES
3 - 5
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Devonshire Playhouse

Information for Winter Guide on this is provided in Read Me and not in this course/section. Registration is open to cast members based on the approval of director and/or producer. Director: Tyler Skafgaard. A play by Michael Brady. It centers on David, a grieving widower who becomes obsessed with the memory of his deceased wife, Gillian. As he isolates himself emotionally, he interacts with Gillian's spirit, which complicates his relationships with his teenage daughter, Rachel, and other family and friends. The play explores themes of loss, healing, and the complexities of moving on after a loved one's death. Auditions: December 2 & 3 / 7-10P Callbacks: December 4 / 7-10P Read Through: 12/8 / 5-9P. Regular Rehearsals: Sundays, 12/15 & 1/5 to 2/2 / 5-9P and M, W & R / 7-10P from 12/9-19 and 1/6-2/6. Technical Rehearsals: Sunday, 2/9 / 5-9P and Monday-Thursday, 2/10-13 / 7-10P. Pick-up Rehearsal: W – 2/19 / 7-10P. Holidays: 12/22 – 1/2. Performances: Saturdays & Sundays, 2/15 & 2/22 at 7P with call time at 5:30P and 2/16 & 2/23 at 3P with call time at 1:30P.
To Gillian On Her 37th Birthday Full Prod. Pkg
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
12/9-2/13
7:00 pm-10:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$82.00 / $82.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
To Gillian On Her 37th Birthday Basic Prod. Pkg.
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
12/8-2/9
5:00 pm- 9:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$0.00 / $0.00
AVAILABILITY
Available

Encores I, II & III

Includes script analysis of theme, plot, construction, action and dialogue to help the actor develop full rich characters. Roles in scenes require more intense background research for character work. Movement involves work in the Alexander Technique and introduction to social deportment of European societies, 16th century. Students are introduced to various accents. Special sessions include: stage combat, on-camera work for film auditions, makeup and costume preparation. Includes: scenes or monologues in modern, Shakespearean or Restoration works. Lead Instructor: Tyler Skafgaard. No class on 11/5 & 11/26.
Encores I, II & III-Comedy/Drama
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/10-12/17
5:30 pm- 6:30 pm
AGES
13 - 17
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Unavailable

Mini Playmakers I, II & III

Young artists develop foundational skills and techniques designed to strengthen confidence, self-expression, focus and social skills, as well as inspiring creativity through dramatic play, imaginative theatre games, storytelling, dance and song. Students dramatize their own stories as instructors prepare them to be in the full production. Instructor: Gayle Starr. No class on 10/3, 10/31 & 11/28.
Mini-Playmakers I, II & III
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/12-12/19
5:30 pm- 6:30 pm
AGES
5 - 8
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Thin Ice Midsummer Nights Dream Cast

Casting is by audition for ages 14-19. Auditions are: August 11 from 1-4P. To schedule an audition, email rgoldberg@skokieparks.org. Rehearsals run Tuesdays & Thursdays, September 3–December 19, 12-3P with holidays November 28 & December 20–January 6. Technical Rehearsals are September 10-December 19 from Noon-4P. Performances are January 10-11 at 7P & January 12 at 3P.
Thin Ice A Midsummer Nights Dream Cast
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/3-1/9
12:00 pm- 3:00 pm
AGES
12 - 19
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Spotlights I, II, & III

The young actor will develop full rich characters, while practicing truthful use of self in imaginary circumstances. Students work in stage combat along with fundamentals to support general American dialect. They have fun behind-the-camera for one session, then experiment with makeup, costumes, lighting, sound, props and set design. Includes: students enhance speaking, singing and dance techniques to meet the challenges of expressive storytelling for solos and ensembles. Instructor: Gayle Starr with specialists. No class 10/3, 10/31 & 11/28.
Spotlights I, II, & III-Musical
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/12-12/19
6:30 pm- 7:30 pm
AGES
11 - 13
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Unavailable

Professional Photo Headshots

Get professional headshots for performance auditions or business at the low cost of $150. Local photographer, Bruce Lorie even offers a 15% discount if you are a Devonshire Playhouse Alum! You receive 5 high resolution large digital shots also available in low resolution for online use. with your name printed on one shots with their name printed at the bottom corner. Contact us at Rhhorwitz@SkokieParks.Org for more details and/or to schedule your 3/4 hour appointment on between 11A-4P either September 21, October 19, November 16 or December 14.
Professional Photo Headshots
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
12/14
11:00 am- 4:00 pm
AGES
5 - 99
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Broadway Bound I, II & III

Students learn to develop character and practice truthful use of self in imaginary circumstances. Students explore theatre of other cultures, experience brief work in front of, and behind the camera, plus theatre makeup, costume/prop selection and lighting/sound basics. Includes basic dance techniques and fundamentals of good vocal production. Lead Instructor: Gayle Starr. No class on 10/2 & 11/27
Broadway Bound I, II & III-Musical
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/11-12/18
6:00 pm- 7:00 pm
AGES
8 - 11
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Technical Theatre Apprentice I & II

Offers behind the scenes instruction and experience for youth and adults who want to assist in stagecraft areas. Students complete script analysis and explore principles of make-up design, three-dimensional performance environments, costume construction, experience role of props master, lighting and sound operation basics and procedures for front-of-house operations. Advanced students select 2-3 areas of focus on which they will receive advanced concentration. Successful participation earns students crew opportunities in theatre class showcases or in upcoming productions. Instructors: Evans Poulos, Patty Mueller, Annie Guter, Paul Pint, Robin Horwitz and Gayle Starr. No class 10/2 & 11/27
Technical Theatre Apprentice I & II
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/11-12/18
6:00 pm- 7:00 pm
AGES
12 - 99
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available

Little Stars I & II

Is your tot a born performer? If so, this class will serve as their acting debut! Imaginative play, singing, acting, movement, musical theatre games, stories and dance will all be combined in a playful, creative environment to establish the building blocks of performing arts and nurture self-esteem. Lead instructor: Michelle Nano. No class on 10/3, 10/31 or 11/28.
Little Stars I & II
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/12-12/19
4:30 pm- 5:15 pm
AGES
3 - 5
LOCATION
Devonshire Cultural Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Unavailable


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