July 20 • 3:30pm-5:30pm

Dive into an underwater world of color, texture, and creativity! In this hands-on polymer clay workshop, students will create their own coral-inspired sculptures while exploring the amazing patterns and textures found in nature. Using found objects, texture tools, and stamps, participants will learn how artists create visual interest and detail in their work while experimenting with shape, form, and design.

This class is perfect for young makers who love working with their hands and bringing imaginative ideas to life. Students will leave with unique polymer clay creations inspired by coral reefs and ocean ecosystems. Finished pieces can then be baked at home according to provided instructions.

2 Hours of Instruction for Youth + Supplies Included. $35.00

AGES 4–12: Ugly Dolls w/ Megan
July 22 • 3:30-5:30pm

Cute? Depends on perspective! Creative? Absolutely! In this beginner-friendly sewing class, students will learn basic hand-sewing skills while creating their very own one-of-a-kind Ugly Doll. Participants will explore simple stitching techniques, stuffing, assembly, and creative design choices as they bring their quirky fabric creations to life. No prior sewing experience is required, making this an excellent introduction to fiber arts and a fun first step into the world of making things by hand.

Each student will leave with an Ugly Doll of their own and the skills to continue practicing at home.

2 Hours of Instruction for Youth + Supplies Included. $35.00

August 3 • 12:00–2:00 PM & August 4 • 12:00–4:00 PM

What happens when theatre artists have no stage, no props in props storage, and no costume shop? In this immersive workshop, middle and high school students will explore the resourcefulness and imagination that have shaped performance traditions for centuries. Working outdoors and drawing inspiration from the natural and built environments around them, participants will devise short theatrical pieces using only what they can find in the immediate space itself. Through collaboration, creative problem-solving, and a spirit of play, students will discover that compelling storytelling doesn't require elaborate resources—just curiosity, ingenuity, and a willingness to see the world as a stage. This workshop will take place both indoors at Calliope Stage and also venture outdoors around downtown Sylva. There will be short, informal presentation of the participants’ work at 4pm on the second day.

6 Hours of Instruction. $45.00

July 14–17 • 12:30–4:00 PM

Think improv is just making things up? Think again! Great improvisers rely on a set of fundamental principles that help them collaborate, build stories, and keep audiences laughing. In this energetic, low-pressure class, teens will learn the basics of improvisation through games, exercises, and scene work while developing skills that extend far beyond the stage. Improv strengthens communication, active listening, adaptability, creative problem-solving, teamwork, confidence, and quick thinking—all valuable tools for friendships, academics, future careers, and everyday life. The class series concludes with a short performance where participants can share their newfound skills and celebrate their work with family and friends.

14 Hours of Instruction. $90.00

Mondays, July 6–27 • 12:30–1:30 PM

Every great play starts with an idea. In this imaginative and engaging class, young writers will discover the basics of playwriting as they learn how to create memorable characters, build exciting stories, write dialogue, and bring their ideas to life on the page. Through fun writing prompts, creative games, and collaborative activities, participants will explore the art of storytelling while strengthening skills in literacy, communication, empathy, and creative thinking. Whether your child already loves to write or is just beginning to discover the power of their imagination, this class offers a welcoming space to invent, experiment, and tell stories that matter.

4 Hours of Instruction. $50.00

June 29, 30, & July 1• 1:00–3:00 PM

Young artists will explore the fundamentals of drawing the human form through a series of engaging observational studies. Participants will learn the basics of portrait drawing, discover techniques for understanding whole-body proportions, and practice sketching from a costumed model. Ideal for middle school-aged students, this class offers a fun and supportive introduction to figure drawing while encouraging careful observation, creativity, and confidence in artistic expression.

6 Hours of Instruction for Youth + Supplies Included. $72.00

July 13, 15, and 17 • 10:00 AM–12:00 PM

Discover the art of seeing the world in a whole new way! Young artists will learn the basics of linear perspective—how artists create the illusion of depth and space on a flat page—through fun, hands-on drawing activities. Inspired by the buildings and streets around us, participants may even venture into downtown Sylva to sketch from observation and put their new skills into practice.

6 Hours of Instruction for Youth + Supplies Included. $72.00

July 15 & 16 • 5:00–7:00 PM

Say "yes, and" to creativity! This fast-paced improv class introduces middle school students to the foundational skills of improvisation through fun games, teamwork, and imaginative scene work. Participants will practice thinking on their feet, listening closely, supporting their peers, and embracing mistakes as opportunities for discovery. Along the way, they'll build confidence, communication skills, flexibility, empathy, and resilience—tools that can help them navigate friendships, classroom discussions, presentations, and all the wonderfully unpredictable moments of growing up. No previous theatre experience is required—just a willingness to jump in and have fun!

4 Hours of Instruction. $40.00

Mondays, July 6–27 • 2:00–3:00 PM

Have a story to tell? This class invites middle and high school students to explore the craft of playwriting and transform their ideas into scripts for the stage. Participants will learn the building blocks of dramatic storytelling, including character development, dialogue, conflict, structure, and scene writing, while experimenting with their own unique voices as writers. Through writing exercises, group feedback, and creative exploration, students will strengthen skills in communication, critical thinking, empathy, and self-expression. Whether you're an aspiring playwright, a passionate reader, or simply curious about storytelling, this class offers a supportive space to take creative risks and discover the power of your own perspective.

4 Hours of Instruction. $50.00