Inclusive.
Challenging.
Empowering.
Fun.
Inclusive. Challenging. Empowering. Fun.
ELM SHAKESPEARE COMPANY EDUCATION
Getting kids onto their feet and into the words!
We work to strengthen the already vibrant artistic and educational landscape of Greater New Haven, through world-class productions coupled with rigorous and joyous education programs that enrich our diverse community. We value inclusivity, artistic excellence and the power of these plays in our lives.
Youth Programs
All of our education initiatives offer immersive, hands-on experiences that draw students out of the virtual into the tangible, fostering real-world connections, empathy, and understanding. Our educational programs are designed to complement the technological fluency of today's youth with the emotional and social intelligence necessary for holistic development.
Players Camp
Players Camp transforms the summer for students aged 7-13 into a captivating journey through the realms of performance and production. Tailored for various skill levels and backgrounds, the camp provides an immersive theatrical experience, nurturing creativity, teamwork, and confidence. A significant portion of our campers come from under-resourced families, participating through scholarships generously funded by our donors. This inclusive approach ensures that every child, regardless of their financial situation, has access to a rich, engaging summer learning experience that not only counters summer learning loss but also sparks a lifelong interest in the arts. We make sure our camp is a place where every child, including those with different abilities and needs, feels welcome and supported.
Guided by seasoned professionals, campers explore acting, stagecraft, and the magic of storytelling, culminating their experience with a performance that resonates with the themes of Elm Shakespeare's annual In the Park production, creating a meaningful connection between the campers' efforts and the broader community's cultural life.
Registration for Edgerton Park Session 2 is Open
Edgerton Park with performance on the Arden Outdoor Stage
75 Cliff Street, New Haven
August 4 - 15, 2025
Tuition: $650
Teen Troupe
A program that immerses students ages 13-18 in Shakespeare's language through voice, movement, text analysis, and acting, culminating in a fully-realized performance. Teen Troupe is facilitated in two sessions per year, along with a summer intensive.
The Teen Troupe provides a unique space for teens to delve into the complexities of Shakespeare's works, engaging with the texts in a way that is both educational and transformative. Without it, young artists would miss out on the opportunity to challenge themselves within a supportive, professional environment, stunting potential growth in their artistic and personal development.
For many teens, the Teen Troupe serves as an entry point into the world of theatre, offering not just training but a sense of belonging within a community of like-minded individuals. Without this program, young aspiring artists might struggle to find their place in the arts, missing out on the encouragement and camaraderie that are so often crucial to pursuing a career in theatre.
Apprentice Company
The Apprentice Company offers a unique, paid apprenticeship program tailored specifically for high school and undergraduate students passionate about pursuing a career in theater arts. Designed to bridge the gap between academic study and professional practice, this immersive initiative provides young artists and theater enthusiasts with a comprehensive introduction to the world of professional theater production. Through hands-on training, personalized mentorship, and active participation in live performances, participants gain valuable insights into a wide array of theatrical disciplines, including acting, stage management, design, and technical support. Each apprentice is paired with a dedicated mentor from the esteemed Elm Shakespeare Company, who offers tailored guidance, advice, and support, ensuring a deeply enriching learning experience that is both personal and impactful.
Overseen by the Director of Education and additionally supported by the rest of the senior leadership team, the program emphasizes skill development, artistic exploration, and professional growth within a supportive and inspiring environment. High school and undergraduate students are not only introduced to the technical and artistic complexities of theater production but are also encouraged to develop a strong work ethic, build their professional networks, and cultivate their creative talents. This paid apprenticeship allows young participants to immerse themselves in the collaborative nature of theater, fostering a sense of community and belonging among the next generation of theater professionals. By the culmination of the program, students emerge as well-rounded, skilled artists ready to embark on their careers in the theater industry, equipped with valuable experiences and connections that will shape their professional paths.
In Residence
Elm In Residence partners with area schools and nonprofit service organizations like Ice the Beef to deliver immersive Shakespeare education programs tailored to middle and high school audiences. Middle school curriculum explores foundational Shakespeare themes in two proprietary program tracks designed by the teaching artists and creative team at Elm Shakespeare, while high school programs are custom-designed for each school's unique needs. College preparatory programming at a partner school offers high school students the opportunity to earn credits at Southern Connecticut State University, where Elm Shakespeare is in Residence. Each year, Elm serves over 1,000 students with direct program engagement, and influences countless more in shared experiences of performances and student projects.
High school students involved in our In Residence program and our college preparatory program have gone on to pursue higher education – some choosing to study theatre or arts education. Elm In Residence participants gain a robust understanding of Shakespeare, demonstrating significant improvement in literary analysis, performance, and social and emotional skills.
Youth Festival
The Youth Festival of Shakespeare stands as a vibrant celebration of young talent, creativity, and collaboration. This non-competitive festival brings together students from various schools to delve into Shakespeare’s profound narratives, reimagining them for a contemporary audience. Through this immersive experience, participants not only explore the depth of Shakespeare's language but also learn to express complex emotions and ideas, fostering a sense of accomplishment and belonging. The festival is designed to strengthen community ties, encourage artistic expression, and promote understanding across diverse groups, making Shakespeare’s timeless works relevant and accessible to today’s youth. Expanded Impact: Beyond providing a platform for performance, the festival champions social and emotional learning, critical thinking, and empathy. Participants emerge with enhanced communication skills, a deeper appreciation for the arts, and the confidence to engage with challenging material. By offering a space where students can lead, mentor, and support one another, the festival cultivates a nurturing environment that values each individual’s contribution and creativity.