YAU’s theatre program offers the youth to learn and experiment with different forms of dramatic expression. The workshops enhance the ability to work cooperatively, improve verbalization and problem-solving skills, and increase awareness of body language, while at the same time giving the boys an outlet for creative expression.
"Theatre makes me feel like a kid again."
— GCJJC Theatre Participant
ShakesProv
In Shakesprov, our newest series of theatre workshops, popular works of William Shakespeare serve as catalysts from which the youth explore universal humanities themes. Using theatre exercises, Improv, and storytelling, this engaging format enables the boys to discover, discuss and relate to themes from Shakespeare’s plays in order to reflect on their own lives and experiences, and to tell their own stories.
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This project is part of Shakespeare in American Communities, a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest.
Improv-ology
“Improv-ology” is a trauma-informed program in which diverse literary works and world mythologies are explored through theatre exercises, Improv and storytelling. Interactive activities enable youth to discover, discuss and relate to universal humanities themes in order to reflect on their lives and experiences and learn to tell their own unique stories. The program also fosters self-confidence, improved public-speaking and cooperative skills, and the development of cross-cultural connections.
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Improv-ology is made possible in part by a grant from Michigan Humanities, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.