By Vietca Do
The Old Globe’s youth programs have been popular for many years, but they’ve also evolved over time in wonderful ways. In an effort to provide youth opportunities in our art form, the Globe created the Summer Shakespeare Intensive in 2008, a training program where students auditioned to secure a spot, played specific parts, and, after four weeks of instruction and rehearsals, performed in the Old Globe Theatre, an honor not everyone gets to put on their resume.
Years later, however, following the introduction of our trailblazing Arts Engagement Department in 2015, the newly named Pam Farr Summer Shakespeare Studio has transformed into an ensemble-centered, multi-cast program where every student being their journey with an interview for a spot in the program. Each student is given a chance to be a lead, a comedian, or a role outside their comfort zone, working together to create a one-of-a-kind production.
Spring of 2020 then saw the creation of Theatre Design Studio, a program geared toward students interested in the technical side of theatre. We saw success in the overwhelming response during the application process, and then in our second year, when we hired program alumni as interns.
This momentum helped us launch Creative Youth Studio later that year, a professional development program aimed at providing youth access to industry experts to deepen their artistic repertoire. Old Globe staff curated the first season, pairing a professional with each young participant working in the same discipline. The second season progressed as four interns created a program for youth, by youth. Not only did they curate the guest list, write the scripts, and film the final product, they also selected the topics most important to them and their peers.
Now that we’re back to in-person work, we’ve pivoted again to live programming. Creative Youth Studio will have its in-person debut in the form of workshops, while Theatre Design Studio will do the same with three one-week sessions focusing on props, costumes, and scenic design. And the Pam Farr Summer Shakespeare Studio will return in person after two years of virtual performances.
The best part of our programs, whether online or on our stages, is that no experience is necessary, only curiosity and drive to participate fully. Consider applying for Theatre Design Studio or Summer Shakespeare Studio—applications are open now—or join us on campus for our Creative Youth Studio workshops in February, May, August, and November 2022. It’s a sweet Studio Suite life!
