theater & film

The Art Underground youth theater program offers extremely high quality production opportunities for children in kindergarten through second grade and another age division for children in second grade through sixth grade during the school year. TAU also periodically offers specialty projects such as the Tapestry Theater and the Colorado Repertory Theater productions, described below. TAU recommends older youth participate in CenterStage Theatre Company productions, another top quality theater program based in Louisville, CO.

K-2nd Grade Musical Theater

The Art Underground offers a class/production format for K-2nd grade performers. Students rehearse one time a week for 1 ½ hrs. Each actor has the opportunity to audition and have a good amount of stage time in the final production. Students will sing, act and dance in the performance with full costumes and basic sets, sound and lights.

2nd-6th Grade Musical Theater

TAU theatrical productions are high quality, exposing young actors to professional sets, makeup, costumes, sound, lights and stage. Participants are held to high standards, yet always with the understanding of their needs as youth actors. Every theatrical experience offers opportunities for development in many areas; dance & movement, vocal & music, acting & vocal projection, social, memorization and others. Rehearsals run twice a week for up to 1 ½ hrs each rehearsal. Two weeks before the performance, there will be additional rehearsals required. There is a fall production, spring production and summer camp offered for this age group each year.

This program is heavily dependent on parent volunteer helpers. There are many opportunities for parents to contribute, from help with sewing of costumes to helping with move-in of large set pieces. The theatrical productions always prove to be a strong community bonding experience. Participating on any level enhances the overall experience that youth actors and parents have.

Theater Classes

For those elementary aged youth who are wanting a bit of theatrical instruction and practice before being in a full production, or who are wanting more specific instruction and focused practice even after being involved with full productions, TAU offers classes designed to build the on stage comfort level of students.

Tapestry Theater

Once a year, kids with disabilities will get a chance to be the stars on stage in a joint TAU and CenterStage Theater Company production. Youth actors ages 10-18 are paired with youth actors without disabilities as mentors. Professional costumes, makeup, set, lights and sound will be used. Both groups of kids benefit a great deal from this community building, life-enriching project.

Colorado Repertory Theater

The Art Underground’s first professional theatrical production was produced in the summer of 2011. The Wizard of Oz was directed by Broadway star Margaret Ann Gates and performed by professional actors, as well as talented local youth who auditioned for Ms. Gates. The performance was a new challenge for TAU, but proved to be a rewarding venture.