Theater Arts Classes

SKILL-BUILDING and PERFORMANCE-BASED classes for ALL abilities and ages.
Improv, Danceology, Broadway Shorties, Broadway Sprouts, Fables in Motion, Play It Straight

All Classes held at 197 Airport Blvd, Burlingame

IMPROV

IMPROV! grades 2–5

Tuesdays 4:30–5:15pm
1/20–3/24
$145

The core of improv is spontaneity and collaboration, where performers rely on quick thinking, active listening, and the principle of “Yes, And…” — agreeing with and building on what others offer in the scene. This creates a dynamic and unpredictable performance. Key elements include embracing mistakes as opportunities for creativity, developing characters and relationships on the fly, and focusing on group collaboration rather than individual performance. Ultimately, improv is about having fun, staying present in the moment, and creating an engaging experience for both performers and audiences.
Instructors: Elaine Franchi and Emily Menell

IMPROV grades 5–8

Tuesdays 5:30–6–30pm
1/20–3/24
$175

The core of improv is spontaneity and collaboration, where performers rely on quick thinking, active listening, and the principle of “Yes, And…” — agreeing with and building on what others offer in the scene. This creates a dynamic and unpredictable performance. Key elements include embracing mistakes as opportunities for creativity, developing characters and relationships on the fly, and focusing on group collaboration rather than individual performance. Ultimately, improv is about having fun, staying present in the moment, and creating an engaging experience for both performers and audiences.
Instructors: Elaine Franchi and Emily Menell

DANCEOLOGY

DANCEOLOGY, JR! Wednesdays grades 1–4

Wednesdays, 4:30–5:30pm
1/21–2/25

$150
Instructor: Kylie Elenz-Martin

Jazz, Tap & Ballet. Get ready to move, groove, and grow! This course introduces students to the basic principles and development of three exciting dance styles: Jazz, Tap and Ballet. Perfect for beginners or those looking to explore a dance foundation, through fun, active sessions focused on technique, musicality, and expression.

DANCEOLOGY! grades 5–adult

Fridays, 6–7:30pm
3/20–6/5

$325
Instructor: Rosemary Conant

Jazz, Tap & Ballet. Get ready to move, groove, and grow! This course introduces students to the basic principles and development of three exciting dance styles: Jazz, Tap and Ballet. Perfect for beginners or those looking to explore a dance foundation, through fun, active sessions focused on technique, musicality, and expression.

PERFORMANCE

BROADWAY SHORTIES: ANNIE KIDS - grades 3–7


Wednesdays 4:30–6pm and Fridays 5–6:30pm
3/18–5/16

$525
Little Orphan Annie charms everyone despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. In telling this delightful story, students will learn acting, vocal, and dance principles culminating in a short show for families and friends on Friday, May 16 at 6pm.

Parents: One volunteer hour for each of their actors is requested to help bring this production to life.
Instructors: Leslie Stupple, Murlene Watkins, Kylie Elenz-Martin, Elaine Franchi, Gabrielle McIllwain

ACTING

BROADWAY SPROUTS grades k–2

Fridays 4:15–5pm
1/23–2/27
$115
A magical class designed for our youngest performers—kindergarten through 2nd grade. This fun-filled class introduces littles to the world of theater, sparking their creativity and building their confidence. Your child’s imagination takes center stage!
Instructors: Leslie Stupple, Kylie Elenz-Martin and Avery Platt

FABLES in MOTION! grades 1–3

Thursdays 4:15–5:15pm
1/22–3/19
$200

Step into the world of imagination and movement in Fables in Motion! In this fun and engaging class, young actors will bring classic fables to life through simple acting, expressive movement, and joyful dancing. Actors work together to act it out using their voices, bodies, and creativity.

This class helps build confidence, cooperation, and communication skills while introducing basic performance techniques in a playful, age-appropriate way. No reading or dance experience required—just a love of stories and a willingness to move and have fun!
Instructors: Leslie Stupple and Elaine Franchi

PLAY IT STRAIGHT! grades 4–8

Tuesdays 4:30–6:15pm
1/20–2/24

$250

This dynamic and engaging acting workshop is designed for actors of all levels who want to develop their skills in a fun, interactive environment. The program begins with a series of energizing and creative acting exercises that focus on building essential skills such as improvisation, character development, emotional expression, and physicality. 

Each session is crafted to challenge participants in new and exciting ways, helping them gain confidence and expand their acting toolbox. These exercises encourage collaboration, creativity, and spontaneity, fostering a supportive atmosphere where actors can take risks and grow. 

As the program progresses, these skills are put into practice as participants come together to rehearse and perform a short play. The culmination of the workshop, this performance,  gives actors the opportunity to showcase their growth, demonstrating how far they’ve come in a short period of time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced performer, this workshop provides a playful and effective approach to honing your craft while having fun.
Instructors: Leslie Stupple and Kylie Elenz-Martin

PLAY IT STRAIGHT! adults 18+

Wednesdays 6:30–8pm
3/18–5/27

$175
This dynamic and engaging acting workshop is designed for actors of all levels who want to develop their skills in a fun, interactive environment. The program begins with a series of energizing and creative acting exercises that focus on basics skills: improv, character development, emotional expression, and physicality.
Instructor: Leslie Stupple

Pied Piper Players

This is the new home of Pied Piper Players. 197 Airport Blvd, Burlingame. Come play!