Classes
Explore, create and collaborate!
Whether you have experience on the stage, are dabbling in theater for the first time or want to improve your communication skills, we have classes for adults of all interests and skill levels (ages 18 and up).
Check out our Exploratory Classes - introductory classes made to engage your creativity and our newly designed Performance Pathway – a multi-level actor training option created to develop your acting chops and hone your voice, movement, text analysis and musical theater skills.
Exploratory Classes
STAGE COMBAT
Learn the tools and techniques to craft safe and believable acts of violence onstage. From refining your uppercut to falling safely, this class focuses on the intricate choreography of stage combat and how to ensure crucial moments in a play are executed realistically and safely. Over the course of six weeks you will learn basic techniques as well as what goes in to creating a moment of violence onstage and how it differs from film. Enjoy knock-down-drag-out fun all while keeping yourself and your partner safe. All experience levels welcome. No prerequisite, Ages 18+, Capacity: 12 students.
Option 1:
- Mondays, August 12 – September 23 | 6:30–8:30 p.m. (no class on September 2)
- Class Fee: $220
- Instructor: Aaron Preusse
Option 2:
- Tuesdays, October 29 – December 10 | 6:30–8:30 p.m. (no class on November 26)
- Class Fee: $225
- Instructor: Aaron Preusse
PLAYWRITING I
Have you ever imagined characters and been inspired to bring them to life on the page? What does it take to write an engaging scene and captivate an audience? Discover the key ingredients of a great drama or comedy and work toward creating your own short play in this six-week class with local playwright Josh Tobiessen. All experience levels welcome. No prerequisite, ages 18+. Capacity: 14 students.
- Wednesdays, September 4 – October 9 | 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
- Class Fee: $220
- Instructor: Josh Tobiessen
PLAYWRITING II
In this intermediate-level playwriting class, students will work on refining their style and technique. Participants will work on crafting their piece with the help and feedback of the instructor and fellow classmates. Dive into valuable writing exercises, collaborate on staged readings of your work, and learn how a playwright takes their work from the page to the stage. Prerequisite: Playwriting I or similar experience. Ages 18+. Capacity: 10 students.
- Wednesdays, October 23 – December 18 | 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. (no class November 27)
- Class Fee: $255
- Instructor: Josh Tobiessen
VOICE AND SPEECH FOR THE NON-ACTOR
This introductory class is for students who want to improve their pronunciation, articulation and intonation skills in American English. The emphasis will be on improving the skills that affect your ability to be understood; pronunciation of vowels and consonants, pitch, tempo, and stress patterns. This class is designed for all students who wish to improve their speech whether English is your first, second or third language. Students will receive individual correction and feedback, and will have time for conversational practice under guidance of the instructor. All experience levels welcome. No prerequisite, ages 18+. Capacity: 12 students.
- Sundays, October 6–27 | 3–5 p.m.
- Class Fee: $125
- Instructor: Mira Kehoe
PRESENTATION AND COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Our bodies, faces and voices tell stories about who we are, communicating verbally and non-verbally in ways we don’t even realize. It’s time to take control of your story! Learn specific verbal and non-verbal skills that give you the confidence to be your best self and to respond in authentic, spontaneous and mindful ways. This on-your-feet class covers interviewing, presentation skills, meeting management and networking. All experience levels welcome. No prerequisite, ages 18+. Capacity: 14 students.
- Sundays, November 3–24 | 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
- Class Fee: $185
- Instructor: Michelle Hutchison and Jim Robinson
SLAY! WITH BRIAN BOSE
Feel sexy, fierce and powerful while learning fun choreography, grooving to music and dancing your way to empowerment. This class creates an open environment to explore your body, challenge yourself and reconnect with your inner child. Strip away fears and perfectionism, and learn to get out of your own way so you have no choice but to slay. No prerequisite or dance experience necessary. Registration is ongoing so join at any time! Ages 18 +. Capacity: 30 students.
- TBA
- Price: Single drop-in class: $20, 4-class package: $75, 8-class package: $150, all classes: $220
- Instructor: Brian Bose
Upcoming dates will be announced soon. To receive access to early registration for, email classes@guthrietheater.org.
VOICEOVER I
Have you ever been curious about the world of radio and broadcast? Discover your vocal range and explore the necessary skills required to deliver the copy, impress the client, and sell the product. Learn the basics of choosing the right piece, reading commercial copy, and much more. All experience levels welcome. No prerequisite, ages 18+. Capacity: 12 students.
Option 1: SOLD OUT
- Tuesdays, September 3–24 | 6:30–8:30 p.m.
- Price: $225
- Instructor: Jim Cada
Option 2
- Upcoming dates will be announced soon. To receive access to early registration for, email classes@guthrietheater.org.
VOICEOVER II
Serious about pursuing voiceover work? Learn about audition etiquette, copy analysis, handling anxiety and self-promotion from leading players in the industry. This class culminates with the opportunity to rehearse and record in the Guthrie's recording studio. Previous guest speakers have included Mike Stalcar, Engineer, Audio Ruckus Recording Studio; Holly Collison, Vocal Coach; and Kate Lawrence, Moore Creative. All experience levels welcome. No prerequisite, ages 18+. Capacity: 12 students.
- Tuesdays, October 15 – November 19 | 6:30–8:30 p.m.
- Price: $305
- Instructor: Jim Cada
Performance Pathway
We’ll be adding workshops throughout the season. Keep an eye on our webpage for updates, and email classes@guthrietheater.org if you’d like updates when workshops are added!
No prerequisites are required and classes may be taken in any order. Many introductory classes are required to take intermediate and advanced classes. To ask questions or discuss relevant experience, contact the Education Team at 612.225.6172.
THEATER BASICS
Through a variety of theater exercises, you’ll explore the fundamentals of acting and create a foundation for continued training, including improvisation, building a theater vocabulary, performing in front of an audience and approaching text. All experience levels welcome. No prerequisite, ages 18+. Capacity: 14 students.
Option 1: SOLD OUT
- Dates: Sundays, August 18 – September 15 | 6:30–9 p.m. (no class September 1)
- Class Fee: $185
- Instructor: Laura Esping
To join the waitlist, email classes@guthrietheater.org.
Option 2:
- Dates: Sundays, September 22 – October 13 | 6:30–9 p.m. (no class September 1)
- Class Fee: $185
- Instructor: Suzanne Warmanen
Option 3:
- Dates: Mondays, October 7–28 | 6:30–9 p.m. (no class September 2)
- Class Fee: $185
- Instructor: Michelle Hutchison
PHYSICAL APPROACHES FOR THE ACTOR
The body is an actor’s instrument. Gesture and physicality are used to tell a story in concert with the voice. In this introductory class, you’ll explore a variety of physical approaches to performance and gain insight on how to approach acting from a movement-based perspective. No prerequisites, Ages 18+, Capacity: 14 students. This class is a pre-requisite for Physical Approaches II.
Option 1:
- Sundays, September 8–29 | 6:30–9 p.m.
- Class Fee: $185
- Instructor: Seth Bockley
Option 2:
- Tuesdays, October 8–29 | 6:30–9 p.m.
- Class Fee: $185
- Instructor: Alison Witham
VOICE & SPEECH FOR THE ACTOR
This course introduces the student to the basic principles of voice and speech including breath, resonance, range, articulation, projection, phrasing and expression and release of excessive tension providing a foundation for the actor’s vocal practice. There will be assigned readings, experiential exercises, class discussions and practical application of skills. No prerequisites, Ages 18+. Capacity: 12 students. This class is a pre-requisite to move on to some Intermediate level classes.
Option 1: SOLD OUT
- Sundays, September 8–29 | 6:30–9 p.m.
- Class Fee: $185
- Instructor: Mira Kehoe
To join the waitlist, email classes@guthrietheater.org.
Option 2:
- Sundays, November 3–24 | 3–5:30 p.m.
- Class Fee: $185
- Instructor: Mira Kehoe
DANCE TECHNIQUES I
Warm up your body, develop your dance vocabulary and understanding of body placement, and sample a variety of dance styles from tap to jazz to ballet. You’ll be comfortable on your feet as fast as you can say five, six, seven, eight! This is a movement class only – no singing required. No prerequisite, Ages 18+. Capacity: 18 students.
- Mondays, September 16 – October 7 | 6:30–8 p.m.
- Class Fee: $125
- Instructor: Shinah Brashears
MUSICAL THEATER SINGING I
This class will help beginner-level singers develop a solid foundation in vocal technique. Students will sing both up-tempo songs and ballads, all suitable for auditioning, while discovering techniques for breath support, song interpretation and performance. No prerequisite, Ages 18+, Capacity: 10 students.
Option 1: SOLD OUT
- Mondays, September 9 – October 14 | 6:30–8 p.m.
- Class Fee: $125
- Instructor: Betsy Benjamin
To join the waitlist, email classes@guthrietheater.org.
Option 2:
- Sundays, September 22 – October 27 | 6:30–8 p.m.
- Class Fee: $125
- Instructor: Betsy Benjamin
Develop your skills in this multi-level actor training program which includes workshops, introductory, intermediate, and advanced-level classes.
AUDITIONING AND THE BUSINESS OF ACTING
What makes a great monologue? How This class focuses on the skills and insights to build effective audition materials and navigate a career in acting. and offers tools to help you prepare for auditions, including preparing a resume and headshot, navigating talent agencies and finding work. Prerequisite: Theater Basics or Physical Approaches I and Voice and Speech I (or equivalent experience). Capacity: 12 students.
- Wednesdays, September 18 – October 23 | 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
- Class Fee: $225
- Instructor: Shirley Venard
VOICE AND SPEECH II — DIALECTS
In this workshop we will discuss the difference between dialects and accents, how to research and apply them to text, and when and why to sing in dialect. We will explore Standard British and Cockney, and will apply them to some spoken text and song. Required materials: The Dialect Handbook by Ginny Kopf. Prerequisite: Theater Basics or Physical Approaches I and Voice and Speech I (or equivalent experience). Capacity: 12 students.
- Sundays, October 6 – November 10 | 6:30 – 9 p.m.
- Class Fee: $260
- Instructor: Mira Kehoe
DANCE TECHNIQUES II — AUDITION TECHNIQUES
This intermediate-level musical theater dance class provides an ongoing training opportunity in a studio format for dancers to sharpen their dance vocabulary. Students will sample a variety of dance styles; from tap to jazz to ballet, while focusing on connecting their acting motivation to their movement for musical theater style performance. This is the perfect class to work on your moves, prepare for auditions, get a workout and just have some fun. Prerequisite: Dance Styles I or equivalent experience, ages 18+. Capacity: 18 students.
- Mondays, October 21 – November 25 | 6:30 – 8 p.m.
- Class Fee: $140
- Instructor: Shinah Brashears
THE ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE FOR THE ACTOR
Developed over 120 years ago, the Alexander Technique has been used as powerful tool for actors to integrate voice, speech and movement. At its heart is the conviction that we are perfectly designed to express an impulse with honesty. A psychophysical tool for body, breath and imagination, it teaches actors how to release habitual tension and instead bring freedom, poise and presence to performance. The focus of the class will be on the principles of the technique and learning the art of self-direction, using warm-up, monologues and partnering work. This class is experiential, designed to teach actors how to be comfortable in their own skin and create onstage intensity without the tension. Prequisite: Physical Approaches I (or equivalent experience). Capacity: 14 students.
- Wednesdays, October 30 – November 20 | 6:30–8:30 p.m.
- Class Fee: $155
- Instructor: Eli Sibley
PHYSICAL APPROACHES II
Want to expand your artistic potential on stage? Explore how a fuller use of the body, understanding of theatrical space, and precise use of gesture can create more unique, engaging, and unexpected performances and stories for the stage. Participants will learn a proactive approach to physical theater making. Instructor will guide students through devising, improvisation and story theater techniques, all with an emphasis on physicality and visual as opposed to purely verbal storytelling. Prerequisite: Physical Approaches I (or equivalent experience), ages 18+. For questions or to check prior experience contact classes@guthrietheater.org. Capacity: 12 students.
- Sundays, November 3 – December 15 | 6:30 – 9 p.m. (no class December 1)
- Class Fee: $260
- Instructor: Seth Bockley
MUSICAL THEATER SINGING II
Singers with performance experience will focus on strengthening their vocal technique while preparing three pieces of music. Two songs will be provided by the instructor, and you’ll provide a ballad of your choice for one-on-one coaching sessions. Performances will be shared regularly in class. Prerequisite: Musical Theater: Singing I (or equivalent experience). Capacity: 10 students.
- Mondays, November 4 – December 9 | 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
- Class Fee: $225
- Instructor: Betsy Benjamin
PHYSICAL COMEDY AND CLOWNING
Get serious about being funny. In this physical comedy course, participants will explore the elements of theatrical clowning, including slapstick, comedic conflict and timing. Designed to heighten a performers natural sense of play, "find the game," and create comedic business, this class focuses on turning off your inner critic’s brain in order to connect more deeply and honestly with the audience. Prequisite: Physical Approaches I (or equivalent experience). Capacity: 16 students.
- Sundays, November 10 – December 8 | 3–5 p.m. (no class December 1)
- Class Fee: $155
- Instructor: Alison Witham
SCENE STUDY: ANALYZING THE TEXT
Dive into the creative, complex and amazing world of the script – the starting place to prepare for roles in both contemporary and classic plays. Following a scene study format, where students will work in pairs or small groups using the text as the starting place to develop characters and better understand the story being staged. Students will continue developing their skills as actors and theater makers by learning how to identify and activate textual clues to enhance storytelling, spark actions, build characters, define relationships and engage audiences. Prerequisite: Theater Basics or Physical Approaches I and Voice and Speech I (or equivalent experience). Capacity: 12 students.
- Mondays, November 11 – December 16 | 6:30–9 p.m.
- Class Fee: $225
- Instructor: H. Adam Harris
CREATING THE CHARACTER
Strengthen your imagination, focus your concentration and hone your listening skills by delving into the creation of original and scripted characters. Building on the skills and conceptes introduced in Theater Basics, this class will explore a variety of approaches for character development and empowers the actor to find their unique approach to character work. Prerequisites: Intro to Acting Classes, Theater Basics (or equivalent experience), ages 18+. For questions or to check prior experience contact classes@guthrietheater.org. Capacity: 12 students.
Option 1:
- Sundays, November 3 – December 15 | 6:30–9 p.m. (no class December 1)
- Class Fee: $260
- Instructor: Laura Esping
Option 2:
- Mondays, November 11 – December 16 | 6:30–9 p.m.
- Class Fee: $260
- Instructor: Michelle Hutchison
Coming soon: A new schedule for The Actor’s Workout, and other advanced studio classes. If you are interested in receiving info about this before it is released to the general public, email classes@guthrietheater.org.
FAQs
Whether you are pursuing a career in theater, looking to explore your creativity, or want to try something new, we welcome rookies, professionals and everyone in between! Our teaching artists and guest artists are industry professionals who are passionate about sharing their craft and fostering the artistic growth in others.
All classes take place at the Guthrie, allowing students to engage with our world-class facility.
Our multi-week adult classes have something for all levels of experience! Our Exploratory Classes are open to all levels and are designed to engage your creativity while learning something new.
The Performance Pathway classes provide individuals who are looking for actor training opportunities a variety of classes in three distinct levels designed to provide a holistic approach to performing on the stage. The core classes in the introductory level include a focus on voice, physical approaches, theater basics and a musical theater track. From there students can move on to continue building those skills in the intermediate and advanced level classes.
Nope! Most exploratory classes and all of the introductory classes do not require prior experience. Some students join us as rookies and others want to brush up their skills. These entry-level classes allow you explore multiple tracks to find what you like best and the opportunity to push your craft further through multiple levels.
That depends. You are welcome to start with the exploratory classes and the introductory classes, but if you feel that you have foundational skills, you may be ready to start at the intermediate or advanced level. If you are unsure, just e-mail us to ask.
Every student is different. Many students are taking classes because they are pursuing a career in theater and others sign up to improve their presentation skills or to try something new. Our teaching artists are prepared for all students regardless of their goals or experience.
It’s our priority to offer experiences that can be fully enjoyed by all. Please submit your accessibility request at least two weeks prior to the start of class. Services are subject to availability and provided at the discretion of management.
Complete your scholarship application here. All information provided will remain confidential.
Our payment plans are personalized to the individual needs of the student. Our only rules: you must pay at least $50 upon registration and you must complete payments by the final day of class.
For Adults:
- Multi-week classes in performance, professional development, playwriting, and more
- Master classes for professional artists
- One-day classes through Hennepin County Libraries
- Professional development courses to improve collaboration, presentation and communication skills
For Youth:
- Summer Camps and Intensives for youth in grades 3-12 to work alongside professional theater artists to explore their skills as young artists
For Businesses:
- Professional development courses for teams and individuals to utilize theater-based training to solve modern workplace challenges
Contact Madeline Achen at classes@guthrietheater.org or 612.225.6172.
Explore more
FINAL WEEKS!
Guys and Dolls
June 22 – Aug 25
The perfect musical comedy
NOW PLAYING
Floyd's
July 27 – August 31
An insightful new comedy
2019–2020 SEASON
Explore Our Season
Courageous new work with must-see classics you know and love.