By DAVID DOW BENTLEY III

“The People’s Critic”

(Conroe COURIER    07.06.03)

            Readers of this column (See COURIER 5-11-03) may already be aware of this summer’s fine Theater Workshops being presented by local actor, Lance Kramer. Now, through arrangements with The Humphreys School of Musical Theater (Official Training Wing of THEATRE UNDER THE STARS at The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts) talented performer, Rob Nash is offering a week of theater training for both young and old.

            Actor/writer, Nash, is known for his solo performances, stand-up comedy, and his touring “One Man Show.” He has been featured in such venues as VH-1, Comedy Central, STAGES, and The Laff Stop. Nash’s own association with The Humphreys School goes back to 1979 when he played the Artful Dodger in the production of “Oliver.” Two intensive workshops will be offered. The first, titled “Create Your Own Musical,” will run July 7^th – 12^th, with sessions Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It will aim at intermediate and advanced youngsters ages 8-11 and 12-18. Participants will gain experience with singing, dancing and acting, but also with choreography, collaboration, brainstorming and composition. Musical Director, Rob Seible, choreographer, Mary Sharon Dziedzic, and staff members, Laura Finger, and Rozie Curtis will join Nash as instructors. Programs will include Creative Writing, Improvs, Vocal Audition Coaching, “Get-the-Job” presentations, On-Camera Acting, Commercials, Movie Scripts, Headshots, résumés, Agents, and even a Career Workshop for students and parents. There will be lunchtime chats with TUTS cast members from the current Miller Outdoor Theatre production of “The Sound of Music.” The week will end with a student talent Showcase Musical, Friday from 4 p.m – 5 p.m. on the TUTS Studio Stage. Tuition is $300.00 for the week with classes limited to 20 students per age group.

            The second workshop is titled “12 Steps to Better Acting” and is designed for those age 16 – Adult. This 3-Evening intensive program will meet Monday through Wednesday July 7-9th from 6:30-9:30 p.m. with a Wednesday night Showcase at 9 p.m. on the TUTS Studio Stage. Aimed at intermediate and advanced actors, topics will include Improvs, Comic Scenes, and Original Monologues. Tuition is $75.00 with a limit of 20 students.

            Hobby Center for the Performing Arts is located at 800 Bagby (between Rusk and Walker) in the Downtown Theater District. For program information call 713-558-8801 and consult the website at www.TUTS.com.