Next Stage is Dallas Theater Center’s after-school theater program for students who love to play, create, and perform. Through fun, hands-on activities in acting, movement, storytelling, and teamwork, students build confidence while exploring the magic of live theater. Whether they’re new to the stage or already dreaming of Broadway, Next Stage helps young artists grow their skills and find their unique voice in a supportive and creative environment.
Discounts:
10% Sibling Discount: families enrolling more than one child will receive 10% off each additional child’s registration
Join Dallas Theater Center’s Public Works Department for CATS: Young Actors Edition!
Young performers ages 6–18 are invited to bring the magical world of the Jellicle Cats to life at the iconic Kalita Humphreys Theater. Guided by professional teaching artists, students will develop acting, singing, movement, and ensemble skills while performing one of musical theatre’s most beloved productions.
Whether you’re stepping onstage for the first time or seeking your next artistic challenge, this audition-based experience is designed to support and challenge performers at every level. Students will be placed into either the Moonbeam Cast (beginning/intermediate performers) or Starlight Cast (intermediate/advanced performers) based on experience and readiness.
Rehearsals: September 19–October 18, 2026
Auditions: September 5, 2026
Performances: October 16–18, 2026
Location: Kalita Humphreys Theater
Tuition: $350
Ages: 6–18
Join Dallas Theater Center’s Public Works Department for Next Stage – Act II: The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane!
Young artists ages 12–18 are invited to participate in this performance-based studio production focused on storytelling, character development, and the craft of acting. Based on the beloved novel by Kate DiCamillo, this moving play follows a porcelain rabbit’s journey as he discovers love, loss, hope, and resilience.
Working with professional teaching artists, students will strengthen their acting skills, explore emotional storytelling, and collaborate as an ensemble while bringing this powerful story to life.
Rehearsals: January 4–February 6, 2027
Performances: February 5–6, 2027
Location: Bryant Hall, Kalita Humphreys Theater Campus
Tuition: $350
Ages: 12–18
A limited number of younger performers (ages 6–11) may be considered through a recorded audition process.
Join Dallas Theater Center’s Public Works Department for Next Stage – Act III: Acting for the Stage!
Young artists ages 8–18 are invited to explore the foundations of acting in this engaging training program led by professional teaching artists. Through improvisation, movement, theatre games, script work, and ensemble activities, students will build confidence, creativity, and storytelling skills.
Rather than focusing on a final production, this class emphasizes exploration, skill-building, and personal growth. Participants will learn how to create believable characters, connect with scene partners, and bring stories to life in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Whether you’re brand new to theatre or have years of experience, this class offers an opportunity to strengthen your skills and deepen your understanding of the actor’s craft.
Classes: April 5–May 24, 2027
Location: Kalita Humphreys Theater
Tuition: $300
Ages: 8–18
For questions or issues, please contact Brandi Giles at brandi.giles@dallastheatercenter.org
