At First Act Theatre Arts we put the utmost importance on our educational programming. Our classes and educational opportunities develop a student’s skills in the performing arts and give them tools that will serve them both on and off the stage.

Our goal is to create a balance of educational programs that address the needs of beginner through advanced level students. Skills taught in our First Act KC education programs help students achieve success not only on the First Act KC stage, but also in their school programs or local community theatre and will continue to serve them well into their young professional careers. Our classes and other opportunities are holistic in their approach covering all areas of the performing arts: Acting, Dance, and Voice. While we know that not every student that walks through the doors of First Act KC will take the skills they learn here and continue into a professional career in the arts, studies consistently show exposure to arts training can serve a student no matter what professional career path they choose to take. The performing arts help develop self- confidence, foster creative thinking, and grow a sense of social trust. Student exposed to the arts gain the ability to express themselves, find their unique place, and learn the value of community.

For the 2022/23 season we are excited to bring programing sure to challenge and excite every level of performer. We truly have something for everyone, at every level and of all abilities. Please look through this year's education handbook and reach out if you would like to speak to me or one of the Studio Directors to determine what might be the best fit for your student!

Education Director

Chrissi Edwards has loved her career as a classroom teacher in the School District and College Church Learning Center for 18 years, teaching children in Preschool through 6th grade. She is a lifelong Kansas City native and has been involved in theatre since childhood with Olathe Community Theatre, Shawnee Mission Theatre in the Park, Olathe East High School and Emporia State University. She is so excited to begin this next chapter with the First Act Theatre Arts community and feels very blessed to have the opportunity to work with individuals who are so passionate about the arts and fellowship in a faith-based environment.

Chrissi resides in Olathe with her husband, John, and teenage children, Ellie and Andy. they are members of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection and enjoy travel, local sports and theatre, and exploring all things Kansas City!

Our Town Auditions: Thursday, June 2nd from 5:00-7:00 PM

Freaky Friday Auditions: Friday, June 3rd from 5:00-9:00 PM

The Drowsy Chaperone Auditions: Friday, June 3rd from 12:00-4:00 PM

With musical theatre, drama, tech theatre, improv, and more, there’s a day camp for everyone! Explore the different types of camps we offer, and find the perfect fit for you! Camps are offered around the KC Metro Area.

Experience a week of action-packed adventures while we explore the world of theatre! You’ll learn stage combat, improv, and technical theatre skills while diving into some of the greatest fictional universes.

June 13-17 - Clash of the Titans: What happens when the Marvel and DC universes collide? Suit up and find out! Learn stage combat, stage make up and more! The fate of two universes depend on you!

July 11-15 - Legends of the Force: Explore a galaxy far, far away! Learn light saber stage combat, tech theatre and so much more! Now get to your ship, and let's make that jump to lightspeed!

August 1-5 - War of the Norse: Come see firsthand what a camp for demigods is like! Learn improvisation, theatrical stage combat and more!

Join us all throughout the month of June for our Dance Studio Summer Workshops for ages 8 and up! Workshops include Jazz, Tap, Swing, Lyrical, Ballet, Hip Hop and more!

Workshops are $20/class. When you sign up for four workshops, call the First Act Office to receive $10 off your fourth registration!

June 1 - 2022-2023 Classes Announced

June 2 - Our Town Auditions

June 3 - Freaky Friday and The Drowsy Chaperone Auditions

June 10 - Dance Company Performs at Shawnee Mission Theatre in the Park

June 11 - Freaky Friday Read Through

June 11 - Day Camp Kick Off

June 12 - Our Town Read Through

June 12 - Dance Company Performs at The Kauffman Center

June 16 - Swing Night at the Studio

June 20-25 - Freaky Friday Camp and Shows

June 26 - Drowsy Chaperone Read Through