Spend the semester studying Shakespeare and classical acting in this weekly programme designed for students of any experience level from curious beginners to passionate young performers.​

 

Over the course of ten weeks, students will rehearse and perform an abridged play by William Shakespeare (or occasionally another classical playwright such as Molière). Guided by expert Shakespeare actors from the DC area, students will be challenged to approach classical text with: commitment to bold artistic choices; true connection with characters, spaces, stories, other actors and the audience; specificity, clarity and precision of acting choices; and generosity with themselves, the ensemble and the audience.

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Over the course of rehearsals, students will take part in exercises and coaching on a variety of skills, including acting, voice production,  movement for stage and even combat, designed to help students develop the tools needed to perform classical text.

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But at the heart of Riotous Youth is not only the craft of acting—it’s the discovery of self through play. Using Shakespeare’s words as a vehicle for exploration, students will build confidence, imagination, and emotional honesty. Through rehearsal techniques rooted in “Yes, and” and “No, but,” they’ll learn to listen deeply, respond truthfully, and bring generosity and presence to every interaction on stage.

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Each session balances rigorous training with joyful experimentation. Students will develop the precision and discipline needed to perform classical text while also cultivating empathy, collaboration, and the courage to take creative risks.

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The semester culminates in a public performance where students share their work and growth with family, friends, and the wider community.

Founded in 2002, The Riotous Youth of Maryland is the only youth Shakespeare program of its kind in western Maryland—providing a safe and nurturing environment where young people can build both artistic skill and self-expression through the timeless power of play.