Essex Youth Theater builds self-esteem, confidence SCHOOLS SCHOOLS CAMPS CAMPS &

Essex Youth Theater is a specialized acting program for kids ages 6-13. They use custom-written scripts so that each student gets an equal part in the show. Class size is small, with each student receiving lots of individual attention. Theirs is an atmosphere of fun learning, where self-esteem and confidence building are the primary focus. They provide a nurturing, caring environment where every child blossoms.

Each child is gently encouraged to explore their natural creativity while building communication and theatrical skills. Finally, students experience the indescribable feeling of accomplishment that is the joy of performing.

The theater classes they teach focus on building selfesteem and confidence. For over 30 years, they have heard numerous reports by students’ parents about how this has positively affected them in school. Formerly shy children to have had the confidence to stand up in class, read aloud, solve math problems on the blackboard, and in general find the school experience just a whole lot less stressful socially.

This boost in self-esteem has also translated to their kids having the confidence to try new things that, in the past, might have seemed daunting, like entering the Science Fair or joining a club.

They also emphasize collaboration in all of their classes. Theater is one of the most collaborative of the performing arts, and that collaboration is a skill that is invaluable in every facet of life, whether the student continues in theater or not. The ability to collaborate serves our students as they go through school and beyond. They tell their kids that if one can learn to work in a positive way with a variety of people and personalities, they will be successful no matter what they do. When students collaborate in class, they learn how to give positive feedback, hear and appreciate ideas that may not have been their first choice, and give each person in the group a chance to contribute. Not only does this help bring the quiet student out of his or her shell, it helps the assertive student develop empathy and consideration for others.

The Summer Theater Day Camp runs for six weeks, July-August. Each week there is a new play or musical to choose from. Students can do one week, all six, or any combination in between, with all roles equal size and, in musicals, a solo song. Visit www.EssexYouthTheater. com or call 973-746-3303