Kids can sign up for theater group's program
Nomad Theatre Company, sponsored by SELF, is an audition-only educational program.
Appearing around the Fox Valley Area, it produces a variety of projects, all aimed at building self-esteem and leadership among youth ages 6 and older. Cast members "create not imitate" by collaborating with the director to develop a show based on everyone's participation and imagination.
GodStage, sponsored by SELF, are classes for second- to eighth-graders, all about building self-esteem and core values through family-friendly performing arts. Performers in this group will memorize lines, songs and choreography from selected scenes from a popular movie or musical for a condensed performance for family and friends.
Everyone gets a part, and all roles are equal in size. All levels of experience are welcome. No auditions are necessary; register at www.selfoundation.org.
The class will be offered in Aurora from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays, April 9 to May 15, at Two Brothers Roundhouse, 205 N Broadway St. in Aurora. The showcase will be at 7 p.m. May 15.
The class will be offered in Elburn from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Fridays, April 11 to May 16, at the M&M Dance Studio, 213B W. Nebraska St. The showcase will be at 7:30 p.m. May 16.
Founder Tracy Whiteside specializes in coaching children and teens, and has been training and directing young actors for more than 15 years.
A photographer, modeling coach, director and performing arts teacher, she has been in the entertainment and fashion business for more than 30 years. She has directed over 50 youth musicals, and taught performing arts at Elgin College and Christian Youth Theater.
As a board member of First Street Playhouse, she directed and produced plays at the theater.
Self-Esteem for Life Foundation (SELF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to building self-esteem among young people through the performing arts. Youth in second grade to college have the opportunity to create a theater production and can audition for singing, acting and/or dancing roles. Those not interested in performing can work backstage on sets, costumes, lighting, sound, and more.