SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – Lake Tahoe Community College is launching Tahoe Youth Theater, a new actor training program for elementary and middle school students. Offering classes through CONNECT Community Education Program, Tahoe Youth Theater provides an opportunity for every student to learn and develop their performing abilities, whether they are new to the theater or a seasoned performer. Two 10-week sessions are being offered this fall. 

Intro to Theatre, for elementary-aged students, is a fantastic course for younger actors who want to explore the performing arts. The course consists of hands-on activities and engaging theatre games, culminating in a short ensemble production of a folk tale. 

Beginning Acting offers middle school students a unique opportunity to explore character building and partner scene work. The class focuses on developing acting techniques through scene study and theatre exercises, and will culminate in a showcase of scenes and monologues.

I am thrilled to offer our community such high-quality programming led by an experienced and talented facilitator. We are equally excited to utilize the professional, well-equipped Duke Theatre on the LTCC campus, providing participants with an exceptional space to learn, create, and engage,” said Megan Waskiewicz, Director of CONNECT.

Anastasia Purvance, a theatre professional with a background in elementary education, teaches the class. A Bay Area native, Purvance trained in acting with the American Conservatory Theatre and holds a degree in Theater, Dance & Performance Studies and Film from the University of California, Berkeley. As an educator, she served as Director of Theatre at Sage Ridge School in Reno and led summer acting intensives for Diablo Valley College’s College for Kids program. She is passionate about helping students engage with their imaginations and is excited to foster a love of performing and storytelling in the next generation of artists in Tahoe. 

Courses on Vocal Acting and Intermediate Acting will be offered during the Winter Quarter, and an elementary and middle school performance troupe will launch in Spring 2027. 

Fall classes begin September 15 and registration is now open. Visit ltccconnect.com to learn more and register for classes.