Afterschool Program Options
With 3 different program types available, we are certain to have an option to fit your needs!
Production Programs
Designed for elective-based programs in which 90 minutes or more are available for rehearsals weekly, production programs allow participants to enjoy all the elements of show production, while working towards the performance of a popular musical. Production programs are arranged in conjunction with Music Theatre International and include backdrops, costumes, sets, and more.
ALICE IN WONDERLAND JR.
Featuring crazy characters and updated songs from Disney’s animated motion picture, Disney’s Alice in Wonderland, Jr. is a fast-paced take on the classic tale. Travel down the rabbit hole and join Alice, one of literature’s most beloved heroines, in her madcap adventures!
THE LION KING JR.
Disney’s The Lion King Jr. has captivated the imagination of audiences around the world, and now you have the opportunity to perform this one-of-a-kind musical in your community! The African savannah comes to life as you join Simba, Rafiki, and their unforgettable friends in a journey from Pride Rock to the jungle and back again in this inspiring, coming-of-age tale.
WILLY WONKA JR.
Willy Wonka’s quest to find a heir comes to life in this stage adaptation of Roald Dahl’s timeless story, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Join Wonka, the famous but enigmatical candy maker, as he stages a contest by hiding five golden tickets in his delicious candy bars. This scrumdidilyumptious musical is guaranteed to delight your sweet tooth as you ride into the land of pure imagination!
Showcase Programs
Ideal for programs that are elective-based, showcase programs invite participants to take an active role in the creation process, using essential storytelling structure and character-building skills to create an original performance influenced by participants' unique interests and skills.
TRIPLE THREAT ACADEMY
Ideal for those looking for a musical theater experience.
Acting! Singing! Dancing! It takes all three to become a “Triple Threat”! This program hones all the skills needed to foster and develop your confidence on stage in a supportive community setting. You will explore and build your vocal performance, acting technique, and movement skills while working toward a final showcase presented at the program’s end for family and friends!
trAPPed!
Ideal for those looking for an easy-to-produce performance with a strong message.
What happens when we get drawn into our phones . . . literally?! Dive into the virtual world, exploring how technology affects our social and emotional connections as you journey through apps such as Facebook, Netflix, Snapchat, and more! Develop pieces of the plot with interactive games and activities as you rehearse toward presenting this original play!
BOUNCE
Ideal for those looking to devise and create their own play.
Work together with fellow ensemble members to create an original, devised play through a process that is team-driven and student-focused. Each year, one word is chosen to be the focus, and for this 2019-20 school year it’s “Bounce,” as in “bounce back," “I gotta bounce,” and whatever else you think of! Broaden your social emotional skill on your way to performing an original play that explores how you relate to yourself and the bigger world.
Workshop Programs
These skills-building programs are designed so that each session stands on its own, allowing for flexible attendance and varying numbers of participants weekly. Workshops emphasize the core values of theater, using creativity and community building to foster life skills that participants will take with them long after the program.
STORYBOOK THEATER
Ideal for younger participants and literacy programs.
Once upon a time . . . stories come to life! Join your favorite storybook characters in a new adventure every week, and then jump into games and activities designed to stretch your imaginations and help you learn to empathize with those around you. Featuring Dr. Seuss, Disney, traditional fairytales, and more!
THEATER FUN ZONE
Ideal for those looking to engage all skills and interest levels.
Get in the Zone! This high energy workshop series features ensemble-building games and improv challenges guaranteed to engage kids of all ages and experience levels. Participants will expand their creativity and confidence on stage and grow their skills in this fast-faced program that includes teambuilding, group challenges, contests, and more.
WORLD STAGES
Ideal for focusing on culture and broadening the scope of arts exposure.
There’s so much more to theater than stage acting! Broaden your theatrical horizons with this workshop program, designed to explore topics including film-making, stage management, playwriting, technical theater, and much more. You will also explore multi-cultural theater, learning hands-on about theater and performance in other cultures.
What does it mean to be an afterschool program partner?
As a mainstages program partner, you will have priority access to the mainstages administrative team.
mainstages program partners also receive:
- 10% off mainstages performances including Workshops & Trainings, Interactive Performances, Game Shows, and Custom Experiences like Color War Breakout & Programming and Performer’s Residencies.
- First rights on priority musicals and original productions.
- Up to 3 complimentary attendees at mainstages year-round Professional Development Facilitation Workshops & Trainings in NYC.