Create, learn and perform through a new session of arts education classes at Artplay

Learn the art of improvisational comedy, comic book character creation, how to write a movie or play and more, through arts education classes at Artplay. Registration is now open, and classes begin Sept. 3.

Written by: Tiffany Westry

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artplay 2015A new session of arts education classes presented by ArtPlay will kick off Sept. 3, and registration is now open. From ballet to hip-hop dance, improvisational comedy and musical theater, to comic book character creation, ArtPlay offers innovative arts education classes and workshops for people of all ages each fall and spring.

ArtPlay, the Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center’s home for arts education and outreach, is located on the University of Alabama at Birmingham campus. In addition to arts education classes and summer camps, ArtPlay also presents shows especially for local schoolchildren featuring artists engaged by the ASC. ArtPlay presents free community learning events, including discussions, lectures, demonstrations, master classes, workshops and clinics, with world-renowned artists of all genres.

Fall 2015 classes and workshops for young children include primary ballet for ages 4-6 and music making for parents and children. The mixed-media art class, Creative Wacky Wonders and Wiggle Giggle Dance and Sing, is for discovering song and dance, where children ages 3.5-5 will deepen their understanding and love of music while developing motor skills and making friends.

For elementary and middle school-age children, Artplay will offer My First Radio Show led by Radio Free Alabama, Acting Out Theatre workshops; Musical Theatre for ages 12-16 with Red Mountain Theatre Company, and classes in visual arts, cartooning, choir, brushless painting, musical writing and hip-hop dance for ages 10-14.

Teens and adults can explore the world of radio drama, music production, textile design, improvisational comedy, writing for stage and screen, and much more. This year will also feature Artplay’s first Ukulele Orchestra, where adults can learn the fundamentals of ukulele playing. The class will culminate with a group performance.

Class fees range from $75-$300, plus supplies. Explore the new classes and register online at www.ArtPlayASC.org, or call 205-975-4769.

Class fees range from $75-$300, plus supplies. Explore the new classes and register online at www.ArtPlayASC.org, or call 205-975-4769.

ArtPlay also offers private instruction in a variety of instruments and artistic disciplines through partnerships with local instructors and music organizations. Lessons range from 30-60 minutes depending on the age and preference of the student. Each instructor is available at varying times throughout the week. The current teaching artist roster includes Carlos Pino, guitar; Patricia Billups, piano; Diane McNaron, voice; Susan McCain, acting; David Roby, acting; and Emanual Ellinas, percussion.

Through a partnership with the UAB College of Arts and Sciences' Department of Music, ArtPlay also offers additional private instruction For instructional fees, teacher availability and more information, please call ArtPlay at 205-975-4769.