Workforce Development

Registration is now open for these upcoming Workforce Development Program workshops:

Le Petit Theatre’s SUMMER STUDENT THEATRE featuring Slowpoke! The True Story of a Tortoise and Hare by Ethan Andersen June 23 – July 18 (no classes July 3-4); Classes held at Le Petit Theatre Performances Friday, July 18 at 7 PM; Saturday, July 19 at 7 PM; and Sunday, July 20 at 3 PM This summer LPT’s Workforce Development program for technical theatre and our Young Conservatory program for student performers will combine creative forces to present the new musical Slowpoke! The True Story of a Tortoise and Hare by New Orleans native Ethan Andersen.  In the mornings, Workforce Development students will learn from industry professionals in areas of scenic design, painting, costuming, prop making, lighting, and sound in order to design, construct, and run the Slowpoke! production.  In the afternoons, Young Conservatory students will gather to learn performance techniques and rehearse Slowpoke! under the direction of LPT Artistic Director A.J. Allegra. Students can participate in one or both programs depending on their interest and availability. Workforce Development Intensive (for technical theatre) June 23 – July 18 (no classes July 3-4) 9 AM – 12 PM; Monday – Friday Ages: Rising 8th – 12th graders Tuition $300 Limit 20 students RESERVE YOUR WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SPOT

Financial Aid is available for all workshops. Email A.J. Allegra for details.

None of these workshops would be possible without the support of these amazing organizations: the New Orleans Theatre Association (NOTA), the Favrot-Van Horn Fund, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, the New Orleans Recreation and Culture Fund, the Rosemary B. and Brunswick G. Deutsch Foundation, and the Ella West Freeman Foundation.

Slowpoke! The True Story of a Tortoise and Hare is presented through special arrangement with Playhouse Jr. Licensing.

Photos from the 2024 Technical Theatre Intensive

The Theatrical Workforce Development Program is a hands-on training program where participants will receive training in multiple areas of technical theatre. The program is open to high school students and recent graduates with a preference given to students in New Orleans who have a demonstrated interest in theatre and the performing arts. Students who attend this workshop will get an overview of many areas of technical theatre including scenic painting, carpentry, lighting, audio, projection, and costumes.

We believe there is no greater joy than watching a child have their first theatrical experience. By introducing children to theatre at an early age, we help them to develop critical thinking skills, increase their overall school performance, and help them develop into sentient and empathetic adults.

Le Petit Theatre has a long tradition of welcoming children through its doors dating back through most of its 108-year history, and in our 24/25 season, we are reaffirming our commitment to education. Not only will we grow our student matinee program to bring more students without access to theatre through our doors, but we will commit to having young people onstage, backstage, and fully integrated into the artistic process.

Le Petit Theatre’s Education Program is supported by a grant from the New Orleans Theatre Association (NOTA), the Favrot-Van Horn Fund, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, the New Orleans Recreation and Culture Fund, The Rosemary B. and Brunswick G. Deutsch Foundation, the Ella West Freeman Foundation, and Entergy New Orleans.

If you are interested in learning more about any of Le Petit’s education programs,
please contact education@lepetittheatre.com