You gotta act Natural!

Dallas Children's Theater's Teen drama program

Cobb Children's Theater's West Side Story (2002)- that's me in the green t-shirt!

Cobb Children's Theater's Bye Bye Birdie (2001)

I have always been a bit "dramatic". I was the middle sister and in order to be noticed amongst my sisters I usually resorted to humor, dance or performance. My undergraduate degree is in Performing Arts, prior to which I was involved with local children's theater. Those summers were some of the best times I've had on stage.

Working to build sets, learn choreography, lines and meeting new kids from across the county helped me build confidence and got rid of any lingering shyness I had. There are tons of children's theaters and workshops all across the country. From musical theater to improvisation, you and your family can get involved and have some fun with your local children's theater.

The Birmingham Children's Theater (AL) offers workshops for kids as young as 2nd grade up to high school seniors. You can take weekend workshops or weekly classes depending on your schedule. Their curriculum is designed to help build self confidence.

If you are near Charlotte, NC- check out the Children's Theater of Charlotte. They offer parent and child workshops from kids 3 and up. For older children, there are workshops for college auditions, stage combat and improvisation. Perhaps you are not the on-stage type, they also run a 15 show season with something for the whole family to enjoy-like Disney's Aladdin.

The Dallas Children's Theater has a great teen program called Y.A.R.D. Teens can use the medium of theater to address issues that they care about. Through discussion, plays and writing , students can use theater as a method for expression.

In any city, the art of live theater and the freedom of expressing yourself on stage never gets old. Even if you are happier being a participant, take a look at your local children's theater and see what you local talent is up to.