At The Dietrich

By
Hildy Morgan

My goodness! Things are just humming away here at the Dietrich! We are so busy, busy, busy. I love it! Margie and Erica have a zillion things going on to amuse and educate children during these lazy, hazy days.

I just ran downstairs to see a dozen kids on our stage learning to “pretend” hit each other – the way it’s done in the theater. They were so adorable. Some of them were pretend hitting with great gusto, while a few looked doubtful about the objective of such a venture.

I love seeing children at the theater doing adventurous, new things. Last week the gallery was full of young quilters – nineteen in all – being taught by Ingrid Rogler (our very own master-quilter) and friends. Little brows were furrowed, tiny hands holding the needles for dear life, and all the concentrative powers that young minds can bring to bear were focused on that singular task. And not only was it wonderful to see these children doing something so creative, but the other terrific part was that the funding for the project came from Trehab with Merriel Oliver leading the charge. We love to partner with other agencies and organizations – we think it stretches everyone’s boundaries. And this was a particularly grand little adventure. So special kudos to Merriel, Ingrid (and friends) and Trehab. Good job!

There are so many other things I want to tell you about – including Celebrate Our River Day - all the major conservation groups will be joining us at the Riverside Park (aren’t we so, so lucky to have such a beautiful place to gather at?) on July 23rd. But I don’t have time to go into detail, so next week. Plus, we have a name now for our Performing Arts Studio. We are so thrilled! I’ll tell you about that real soon. I promise.

Okay. On to the movies. The long spell of having the same movies for what seems like eternity is over! Yaaaay! This Friday we open Cinderella Man for a week – unless it does really well and then we’ll keep it a few extra days. Russell Crowe’s private life notwithstanding (what a bad tempered fella), this is a grand movie. Ron Howard makes wonderful films and this is based on fact. Although it’s a movie about boxing, it’s really about life – what makes winners and losers. The line separating the two is often just determination with a bit of moxie thrown in. This movie points that up – in spades!

For the teens, the little kids (G Rated) and everyone else who loves race cars and the lovely Lindsay Lohan, we have Herbie Fully Loaded. This is pure Disney fun and with its G rating we decided on that over Bewitched. It’s terrible to have to make such choices, sometimes, because I know there are folks who would like that one, too. But the “G” rating on Herbie did it for me. That means you can bring everyone from the littlest kidlet to great grandma and there is nothing to offend. Good deal, don’t you think? (Plus, there are actually race car drivers making cameo appearances, for those who like that sort of thing.)

Then, to scare the whatever out of you, on June 29, we bring in War of the Worlds, Stephen Spielberg’s latest film. It’s a scary, wonderful, superbly done re-make of the classic as only Spielberg could do it. I think it’s going to be the major hit of the summer, so put time aside to come see it. We’re pondering a midnight show for it – what do you think? (E.mail me at hildya@epix.net)

And then, two weeks later, we open Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. What a summer! Oh, yeah. I promised Sandy’s darling grandchildren I would bring in Lava Boy and I will. In late July or early August. Honest, Joey and Claudia.

See you at the Dietrich!

Live at The Dietrich

By
Erica Rogler

Well, we are into our first week of summer camps at the Dietrich! And talk about exciting, the teenagers participating in Theater Workshop are discovering some pretty amazing aspects of the theatre arts this week. They have learned how to apply stage makeup from a professional, practiced improvisation with Impulse Improv, and learned how to stage fight from a stage combat expert! I can’t believe how many activities directors Carl Canedy and Patting Dunning of First Act Children’s Theatre have packed into this week. It is nice to see many of the participants of the Dietrich’s After School Players, a class Carl and Patti have taught for the past three winters, in this class.

Next week should be equally fun-filled with Rand Whipple of Box of Light Theatre during our Digital Arts Camp, which features claymation, special effects, and robotics. Even though this is a technology camp, I most enjoy the characters and storylines the kids create. Their clay figures come to life in claymation movies. To these movies, the kids add sound effects, sound tracks, and special effects. They also use special effects for blue screening and to morph images and pictures. In this camp, students also construct robots of their own design and set them in motion. This is the perfect camp for kids who like to see how things work! There are still a few spaces available in both morning and afternoon sessions. Children ages 12 and up are welcome to the morning session from 10 am –noon and there is an afternoon session from 1:00-3:30 pm for kids ages 9-12. Admission is $45.00.

And for the final week in June, the Dietrich will bring the theatre arts and the visual arts together during our Theatre and Visual Art Camp’s exploration of Ancient China. Each day from 10:00 am to noon, kids ages 5 though 12 will have the opportunity to experience the ancient Chinese culture through plays on the Dietrich’s stage and through their handiwork in the Dietrich’s Dorothy G. Sheldon’s Art Studio. There is still time to register by calling 570-996-1500.

For adults, our pottery and sculpture, acting, and yoga classes are in full swing. In Sara Lane’s “Acting for Adults” class, we have a nice mix of teenagers and adults. A few of the students have had previous acting experience while others are taking their first plunge into theatre. According to Sara, having a mix of beginners and experienced actors creates a great atmosphere for students to learn from each other. I am looking forward to see their showcase of work in July, which will be free and open to the public.

More than the Movies at the Dietrich Theater

Acting for Adults II, ages 16 and up

Students will add to their "toolbox" by focusing on the physical life of their characters. Students will strengthen their technique, and learn how to apply their skills to material that is more complex and stylistic. This class session will culminate in a showcase of students work open to the public. Call the Dietrich at 570-996-1500 to register.

Tuesdays, July 19, 26, August 2, 9, 16, 23 from 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Cost: $60 for the six-week session.

Instructor: Sara Lane, M.F.A. in Acting from the National Theatre Conservancy

Acting for Adults, ages 16 and up

This class focuses on the use of objectives, character development, given circumstances, sub-text, obstacles, and physical actions to create truthful characters and performances. Students will apply these techniques to monologues and scenes by contemporary playwrights. This class will culminate in a showcase of students' work open to the public. Call the Dietrich at 570-996-1500 to register.

Tuesdays, June 7, 14, 21, 28, July 5, 12 from 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Cost: $60 for the six-week class

Instructor: Sara Lane, M.F.A. in Acting from the National Theatre Conservancy

Bus Trip to Everhart Museum, Nay Aug Park and Zoo

Preregistration required. Space is limited.

Saturday, July 30th, 9:30 am - 2:00 pm

Cost: $5 per person

Instructor: Everhart Museum Staff

Decorative Painting for Adults, age 13 and up, Spring and Summer Day Sessions

Try your hand at painting decorative pieces for your home or to give as gifts. All levels of experience welcome. Call 570-996-1500 to register.

Wednesdays, June 8-29, July 13-20, August 3 -31. noon - 3:00 pm

Cost: $15 per lesson + cost of painting surface

Instructor: Eileen Balboa

Decorative Painting for Adults, ages 13 and up, Spring and Summer Night Sessions

Try your hand at painting decorative pieces for your home or to give as gifts. All levels of experience welcome. Call 570-996-1500 to register

Thursdays, June 16; July 14, 21; August 11, 18. 6:30 - 9:30 pm

Cost: $15 per lesson + cost of painting surface

Instructor: Eileen Balboa

Digital Arts Camp, ages 9 and up

Claymation, robotics, and special effects!

Monday, June 20 - Friday, June 24. from 1:00 - 3:30 pm

Cost: $45

Instructor; Rand Whipple

Everhart Ancient Art Explorations

Explore the art of ancient Greece and Rome, ancient Egypt, Cave art, and Babylonian art.

Fridays, July 8, 15, 22, 29. Session 1 - Ages 5-8: 10:00 -11:00 am. Session 2 - Ages 9-12: 11:30 am - 12:30 pm

Cost: Free

Instructors: Everhart Museum Staff

Father's Day Craft with Sarah Sidorek, ages 10 and up

Enjoy making crafts with local artist Sarah Sidorek. Thursday, June 16th, 3:30 - 5:00 pm - Father's Day gift - Paint a frame to hold your photo and make gift wrap to wrap it in. Call 570-996-1500 to register.

Thursday, June 16th, 3:30 - 5:00 pm

Cost: $8.00

Instructor: Sarah Sidorek

Intergenerational Oil Painting

Students of all ages and levels of experience will have the opportunity to learn the skills of oil painting.

Monday, August 1 - Friday, August 5, 9:30 - 11:00 am

Admission is $55 for adults and $30 for children

Instructor: Steve Colley, B.F.A., M.F.A.

Intergenerational Quilting for all ages, Summer Session

Make a traditional quilt sampler. The prep work will be done for you.

Wednesdays, June 15 - July 27, 6:00 - 7:30 pm

Cost: $6 per lesson, all materials provided.

Instructors: Ingrid Rogler and Peggy Lane

Landscape Drawing and Painting

Ages 6 to adults are invited to experience drawing and painting landscapes as they see it. Classes will be held at Riverside Park. All materials will be provided. Call 570-996-1500 to register.

Monday, August 1 - Friday, August 5, 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Cost: $55 for adults and $30 for children

Instructors: Amy and Steve Colley, B.F.A., M.F.A.

Mask Making

A mask is an ideal structure for exploring three-dimensional art with children. Children will create their own masks as they discover a variety of mediums. Children will be exposed to masks of various cultures and discuss how masks have been worn and decorated throughout history and what purpose they served.

Ages 5-12: Monday, July 18 - Friday, July 22 from 9:30 - 11:00 am. Ages 4 and 5: Tuesday, July 26 - Thursday, July 28 from 10:00 am - 10:45 am.

Cost: $45 for ages 5- 12, $30 for ages 4 and 5.

Instructors: Michaela Moore and Amy Colley

Mixed Media Fridays, ages 5- 12

A new artist will be introduced each week as students will learn about famous artists in Impressionism, Abstract Expressionism, Cubism, etc., as they create their own works using a variety of materials including clay, tempera, charcoal, pastels, etc.

Fridays, 4:00 - 5:30 pm, June 10, 17, 24.

Cost: $25 for each series of three classes

Instructors: Steve and Amy Colley, B.F.A., M.F.A.

Mommy & Me Mixed Media, ages 3 and 4

Young artists and their Moms, Dads, or grandparents will create works of art in an assortment of materials including clay, tempera, watercolor and collage.

Mondays, noon - 12:45 pm, June 6, 13, 20.

Cost: $20 for each series of three classes

Instructor: Amy Colley, B.F.A., M.F.A.

Open Studio (Session 1-filled)

Students of all ages and levels of experience will have the opportunity to work at thier own pace and medium of their choice with instructor Steve Colley. A model will be provided for an additional fee if the group chooses. Please call 570-996-1500 to register.

Tuesdays, 7:00 - 8:30 pm. Session 1 - June 7, 14, 21, 28. Session 2 - August 9, 16, 23, 30.

Cost: $30 per child, $45 per adult

Instructor: Steve Colley, B.F.A., M.F.A.

Pottery & Sculpture

This class is designed for students of all levels of experience. Students will work on pottery wheels and learn hand building techniques. Call the Dietrich at 570-996-1500 to register

Mondays, 7:00-8:30 pm. Session 1-June 13, 20, 27. Session 2- July 11, 18, 25, August 1. Session 3 - August 8, 15, 22, 29.

$45 for four classes, or $35 for three classes

Instructor: Steve Colley, B.F.A., M.F.A.

Preschool Art, ages 4 and 5

Preschool students will be introduced to a famous artist each week as they explore a variety of materials such as clay, tempera, watercolors, collage, etc. Call 570-996-1500 to register.

Thursdays, noon - 12:45 pm, June 2, 9, 16, 23.

Cost: $25 for each series of four classes.

Instructor: Amy Colley, B.F.A., M.F.A.

Theater Workshop

Hands-on activities with stage combat, sound effects, makeup, special effects, and more!

Monday, June 13 - Friday, June 17th, 10 am - noon

Cost: $45

Instructors: Carl Canedy and Patti Dunning of First Act Children's Theatre

Theatre & Visual Arts Camp - Ancient China

Theatre and art activities centered around Ancient China

Ages 5 - 12: Monday, June 27 - Friday, July 1 from 10 am-noon. Ages 4 -5: Tuesday, June 28 - Thursday, June 30 from 12:30 - 1:30 pm

Cost: $45 for ages 5 -12, $30 for ages 4-5

Instructors: Amy Colley and Michaela Moore

Theatre and Visual Arts Camp - Knights, Princesses, & Dragons (Ages 5-12: filled)

Theater and art activities centered around medieval times.

Ages 5-12: Monday, August 8 - Friday, August 12 from 10 am - noon. Ages 4 and 5: Tuesday, August 9 - Thursday, August 11 from 12:30 - 1:30 pm

Cost: $45 for ages 5 - 12, $30 for ages 4 and 5

Instructors: Amy Colley and Michaela Moore

Writers Group

Love to write? The group celebrates all different types of writing styles and formats. Join at any time. Admission is free.

Thursdays, March 17 - August 25, 7:00 - 9:00 pm

Admission is free.

group format - no instructor

Yoga for You

Accomodations will be made for beginners, experienced practitioners, and those with special needs. Call 570-996-1500 to confirm dates. Please bring yoga mat or beach towel.

Wednesdays, 10:00 am - 11:00 am, Call 570-996-1500 for class dates.

Cost: $10 per lesson. Children are free.

Instructor: Melissa Russo: Certified Hatha Yoga Instructor

Yoga for You at Night!

Accomodations will be made for beginners, experienced practitioners, and those with special needs. Call 570-996-1500 to confirm dates. Please bring yoga mat or beach towel.

Mondays, June 6 - June 27, July 11, 18, 25 from 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm

$10 per class

Instructor: Angela Heffron

Yoga for You -Saturdays

This class will teach or reinforce the basic yoga poses (asanas) which gently stretch and strengthen the body. Special attention will be given to proper breathing and alignment in the postures. Please bring a yoga mat or beach towel. Call 570-996-1500 to register.

Saturdays, June 4, 11, 18, 25, July 9, 16, 23, 30 from 10:00 am -11:00 am

Admission is $10 per class.

Instructor: Mary Frances Giordano, certified Hatha yoga instructor