education
New West Theatre Education for Youth
and NEW! this year – Theatre education for adults!
The deadline for charitable donations has been extended to February 28, 2025!
ABOUT US
Our teaching philosophy is geared towards instilling growth mindsets in our students. A growth mindset encourages effort, progress, hard work, and persistence rather than talent or perfection. There are no solo-superstars in our classrooms! We believe that the process of creating something together is rich with opportunities for growth.
Our instructors are committed to connect, create, and grow with our students! We are committed to continuing classes in accordance with provincial health and safety guidelines which means that we are ready to facilitate these classes either in person or online.
Days until SUMMER
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subsidy is EASY!
We want all students to have affordable access to our programs – There are many options available to you. Let us help!
Summer camp 2025 registration IS NOW OPEN
Registration is now open for the 2025 summer camps and more
Spaces are limited.
camps & classes
SUMMER CAMPS
2025
We are going to kick off the season with our weeklong themed Summer Drama Camp Programs for ages 6 to 18 years old, starting June 30th and running all the way till August 29th!
5 full days of Theatre Camps located at the YMCA Cor Van Raay, with plenty of options to accommodate all interests and ages.
DATE:
June 30 – Jul 4 (Ages 6 – 8) Musical Theatre – Little Mermaid Inspired (4 days long camp – Canada Day off)
July 7 – 11 (Ages 9 – 12) Murder Mystery
July 14 – 18 (Ages 6 – 8) Musical Theatre – Frozen Inspired
July 21 – 25 (Ages 9 – 12) Taylor Swift’s Version (Musical Theatre)
July 28 – Aug 1 (Ages 9 – 12) Wicked Inspired Musical Theatre
Aug 4 – 8 (Ages 13 – 18) Broadway Inspired
Aug 11 – 15 (Ages 6 – 8) Disney Inspired
Aug 18 – 22 (Ages 13 – 18) Stage Combat
August 25 – 29 (Ages 9 – 16) Acting For Camera
PD DAY CAMPs
2024-2025
DATE: October 2024 – May 2025
CALENDARS: (2024-2025)
TIME: 8:30 – 4:00 pm
LOCATION: YMCA – Cor Van Raay
COST: $50/day
DESCRIPTION:
Not sure what to do for childcare when your child’s school is out for a PD Day, winter break or reading week? We have you covered! Day camp activities include arts & crafts, puppetry, acting and blocking, skits, videos/infomercials and so much more!
All PD Day Camps qualify for a childcare receipt for income tax purposes.
Fall classes
DATE: October 1 – December 12, 2024
DAYS: Musical Theatre – Tuesdays
Theatre Class – Thursdays
TIME: 5:30 – 6:30 pm, ages 6 -8
6:45 – 8:00 pm, ages 9 -12
LOCATION: YMCA – Cor Van Raay
COST: Ages 6-8 – $150
Ages 9+ – $160
DESCRIPTION:
This group is all about providing space for youth to connect, create, and grow together. We develop friendships, play crazy games, learn about acting, create our own play, and so much more!
Something that makes our class unique is that the kids are in the driver’s seat. They get to decide what characters they want to play and then THEY build their stories and write their own scenes
Winter classes
DATE: February 4 – April 10, 2025
DAYS: Musical Theatre – Tuesdays
Theatre Class – Thursdays
TIME: 5:30 – 6:30 pm, ages 6 -8
6:45 – 8:00 pm, ages 9 -12
LOCATION: YMCA – Cor Van Raay
COST: Ages 6-8 – $150
Ages 9+ – $160
DESCRIPTION:
This group is all about providing space for youth to connect, create, and grow together. We develop friendships, play crazy games, learn about acting, create our own play, and so much more!
Something that makes our class unique is that the kids are in the driver’s seat. They get to decide what characters they want to play and then THEY build their stories and write their own scenes
NEW! WINTER STAGE COMBAT CLASS
DATE: February 5 – April 9, 2025
DAYS: Wednesdays
TIME: 6:15 – 7:30 pm, ages 9 – 16
LOCATION: YMCA – Cor Van Raay
COST: Ages 9-16 – $160
DESCRIPTION:
Step onto the stage and into the world of action with our exhilarating NEW! Stage Combat Class. Under the guidance of our professional instructor, students will dive into the thrilling realm of stage combat. They will discover the secrets behind creating captivating illusions of real fights, all while ensuring safety and precision. This class offers the opportunity to learn basic stage combat skills in a supportive environment, unlocking the magic of theater’s most dynamic moments.
NEW! WINTER DUNGEONS & DRAGONS INSPIRED THEATRE CLASS
DATE: February 5 – April 9, 2025
DAYS: Wednesdays
TIME: 7:45 – 9:00 pm
LOCATION: YMCA – Cor Van Raay
COST: Ages 13-18 – $160
DESCRIPTION:
Unleash your creativity and hone your acting skills in our exciting NEW! Teen Dungeons and Dragons Class! Join us for an unforgettable journey through the realms of imagination, where you’ll delve into the captivating world of D&D alongside fellow adventurers. In this unique class, you’ll not only embark on thrilling adventures but also enhance your acting abilities through character creation, role embodiment, and improvisation. Our instructors will guide you through every step of the adventure, fostering a fun and social atmosphere where friendships are forged and stories come to life. Don your armor, sharpen your wit, and let the adventure begin!
New! Advanced Improv Class for Adults (18+)
DATE: January 8 – February 5, 2025
DAYS: Wednesdays
TIME: 6:00 – 8:30 pm
LOCATION: Casa
COST: $250
DESCRIPTION:
Welcome to our “Advanced Improv” class! Designed for experienced improvisers, this course offers a deeper dive into the art of improvisational theatre. To enrol, you should have completed our Intro or Intermediate Improv class, or possess previous improv/theatre experience. In this advanced class, you’ll: hone your skills with sophisticated improv techniques. Focus on intricate scene work, character development, emotional authenticity, and storytelling dynamics to elevate your performance. Cultivate the ability to self-direct and critique your work. Learn how to assess your performances, identify areas for improvement, and apply advanced strategies to refine your craft. Build unwavering confidence in your improv abilities through challenging exercises and in-depth feedback. Embrace creative risks and trust your instincts in a supportive environment.
NEW! INTRO TO IMPROV Class for Adults (18+)
DATE: September 6 – October 11, 2024
DAYS: Fridays
TIME: 6:00 – 8:30 pm
LOCATION: Casa
COST: $250 (5 classes)
DESCRIPTION:
Welcome to our “Introduction to Improv” class! Discover exciting world of improvisational theater where creativity, spontaneity, and fun come together. In this dynamic and engaging course, you’ll: Engage in a variety of improv games designed to spark your creativity and encourage collaboration. From quick-thinking exercises to storytelling games, every session is filled with laughter and learning. Discover the foundational techniques of improv, including active listening, agreement (“Yes, and…”), quick thinking. These skills will not only enhance your stage presence but also boost your confidence and communication in everyday life. Our class emphasizes a playful and supportive environment where everyone can explore their creativity without fear of judgment. Expect plenty of smiles, giggles, and memorable moments as you connect with fellow participants.
NEW! INTRO TO IMPROV Class for Adults (18+)
DATE: February 26 – March 26, 2025
DAYS: Wednesdays
TIME: 6:00 – 8:30 pm
LOCATION: Casa
COST: $250 (5 classes)
DESCRIPTION:
Welcome to our “Introduction to Improv” class! Discover exciting world of improvisational theater where creativity, spontaneity, and fun come together. In this dynamic and engaging course, you’ll: Engage in a variety of improv games designed to spark your creativity and encourage collaboration. From quick-thinking exercises to storytelling games, every session is filled with laughter and learning. Discover the foundational techniques of improv, including active listening, agreement (“Yes, and…”), quick thinking. These skills will not only enhance your stage presence but also boost your confidence and communication in everyday life. Our class emphasizes a playful and supportive environment where everyone can explore their creativity without fear of judgment. Expect plenty of smiles, giggles, and memorable moments as you connect with fellow participants.
NEW! Intermediate Improv Class for Adults (18+)
DATE: November 6 – December 4, 2024
DAYS: Wednesdays
TIME: 6:00 – 8:30 pm
LOCATION: Casa
COST: $250 (5 classes)
DESCRIPTION:
Welcome to our “Intermediate Improv” class! Take your improvisational theater skills to the next level in a course designed for those with some prior improv experience. In this enriching and interactive class, you’ll focus on developing a robust set of improv techniques that will enhance your performance. Learn some new skills such as scene work, character depth, narrative structure. Through guided exercises and constructive feedback, you’ll build confidence in your abilities. Our supportive environment encourages you to take creative risks and trust your instincts. While our primary focus is on skill development, we continue to incorporate a variety of improv games. These games are tailored to reinforce the techniques you’re learning and keep the sessions lively and fun.
NEW! Intermediate Improv Class for Adults (18+)
DATE: April 16 – May 14, 2025
DAYS: Wednesdays
TIME: 6:00 – 8:30 pm
LOCATION: Casa
COST: $250 (5 classes)
DESCRIPTION:
Welcome to our “Intermediate Improv” class! Take your improvisational theater skills to the next level in a course designed for those with some prior improv experience. In this enriching and interactive class, you’ll focus on developing a robust set of improv techniques that will enhance your performance. Learn some new skills such as scene work, character depth, narrative structure. Through guided exercises and constructive feedback, you’ll build confidence in your abilities. Our supportive environment encourages you to take creative risks and trust your instincts. While our primary focus is on skill development, we continue to incorporate a variety of improv games. These games are tailored to reinforce the techniques you’re learning and keep the sessions lively and fun.
AVAILABLE SUBSIDY
CITY OF LETHBRIDGE FEE ASSISTANCE
Launched in November 2015, the City of Lethbridge offers a Fee Assistance program for residents who face financial barriers to participating in recreational and cultural opportunities.
Those living in Lethbridge may qualify for the City of Lethbridge Fee Assistance Program.
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Sometimes, families need financial assistance to get their kids into a sport or physical activity. We’re committed to helping all families access a range of activities, from boxing to bowling and skating to skiing, and more.
MEET THE Education TEAM
ANASTASIA SICEAC
Education Coordinator/Educator
Anastasia Siceac is a graduate from the University of Lethbridge with a BFA in Dramatic Arts. She started her drama degree back in Europe before moving to Lethbridge in 2016 to complete her education and collaborate with many incredible artists and creators. Her passions include theatre, collaborative creation, dance, film, and clowning. Anastasia has had the opportunity to act, direct, and stage manage a variety of shows within the Lethbridge community, and currently works as New West Theatre’s Education Coordinator. She loves watching young talents grow and helping them discover the beautiful theatre world. Additionally, Anastasia could be recognized from her performances as Lola the Clown.
Chevy Larson
Educator – Dungeon & Dragons Inspired Theatre
Keith Miller
Achilles Friesen
Educator – Musical Theatre / Theatre
David Gabert
Educator – Improv
David Gabert is a Lethbridge based improviser, performer, mental health advocate and father. Beginning with his first improv show in Lethbridge with the University of Lethbridge Improv Club in 2006, David has been honing his craft ever since, through nearly two decades of shows, murder mysteries, workshops and classes. Currently overseeing ImpromptOu, the improv wing of Theatre Outré, David organizes and performs in many of their shows, including Drunk Improv, Gomorrah, and his personal favorite, No Way Out. He has also had the pleasure of performing with Dirty Laundry (Calgary), Playgoers (Lethbridge) and the Lethbridge Shakespeare Performance Society. He believes that improv is not only a performance skills, but one that can be used in our daily lives, both to thrive in the fast paced world that we live in, and take some of the stress off at the same time.