Studio 11

Ages 9-11

A friendly space for the young actor in grades 4 - 6 to learn about (or continue learning about) acting for the theatre. Suitable for both beginners and those with previous acting experience.

Several performance opportunites throughout the year.

Studio 11 is divided into three different session (a new focus each term) -- however, classes do not have to be taken in order and they can even be repeated. This division is meant to broaden the scope of what Studio 12 students explore over the course of one year and to provide some sort of structure.

Fall 2026 - Creative movement and Improvisation

The focus is on using the body and voice as an instrument of communication and storytelling. Students will explore creative movement, movement for the stage, and the fundamentals of improvisation. The goal is to explore non-verbal communication, as well as work towards embodiment of a character.

Winter 2027 - Voice and Text

The focus is on speech for the stage, and using scripts, including how to take words off the page and make them your own, moving towards an authentic performance.

Spring 2027 - Play Creation

With the help of the instructor, students create their own show based on a pre-existing story. Through theatre games and exercises, students will practice the fundamentals of theatre acting (including movement for the stage, vocal projection, improvisation, and building a character) as well as focus on creativity and collaboration.

All terms culminates in a final performance for family and friends at the Student Showcase - held 3 times per year at Beban Stage.

Is Studio 11 right for my child?

Studio 11 is designed for children ages 9-11 who love to imagine, create, move, and perform. Whether your child is outgoing or shy, brand new to the stage or already has some experience, NYPT's Studio 11 program provides a supportive environment where every students can participate and grow.

Please note: In the winter and spring term, monologues and scripts and introduced. If your child has any reading difficulties, please let us know and we will accommodate them. Also, students using scripts can expect homework; ie. memorizing lines. It is very likely that you, the parent, will need to assist them with this.

Gallery 11

Class Information

Tuesdays, 4:00 pm - 5:15 pm

Fall 2026 Term Dates:

Sept 15 - Dec 1

12 x 75-min. classes + 1 performance

Performance Date:

TBA (probably Fri. Dec 4, 7:00 pm)

Location:

St. Andrews Presbyterian Church

4235 Departure Bay Road (behind Country Club Mall

Cost:

$325

(+ $25 annual registration fee, one per family)

Meet Your Instructor

Zoe Henderson

Zoe is a multi-disciplinary artist born and raised in Nanaimo. She returned to the city in July 2023, after spending 25 years in Toronto working as a full-time arts educator (music, drama). Professional work includes acting, teaching, directing, producing, playwriting, composing, and music arranging. Formal education includes a B.A. (Honours) in Drama (University of Alberta) as well as advanced certificates from the Royal Conservatory of Music in speech arts, singing, piano. She has also spent time studying dance (ballet, jazz) and physical theatre (clown). Zoe loves teaching theatre to young people and is committed to building spaces where each child can grow, thrive, develop their voice, and explore their potential. She created Nanaimo Young People's Theatre in 2022.