THEATER REVIEW:Kids get into the act at the Playhouse

It’s never too early to launch a career in the theater, and Laguna Beach area youngsters can get a leg up in show business in a summer program offered by the Laguna Playhouse.

A pair of two-week classes are scheduled for children aged 9 to 12 and teenagers in the 13-17 age range at the playhouse’s production center in Laguna Hills. Registration deadline is July 1.

The youth theater program, “Kids on Broadway,” is a musical theater workshop that will feature songs, scenes and monologues from well-known musicals. It will be presented Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 9-20.

“Children study acting, music and movement,” said instructor Kathy Harris, theater director at Mission Viejo High School, who will conduct the class along with musician Bill Wolfe, who’s been musical director for more than 120 productions.

“This class is good for beginners as well as more experienced students. It includes skill building and the creation of a showcase performance,” Harris said.

Each student will receive individual instruction and coaching, and will learn how to present a song and monologue and work on group numbers with professionals in the field. The fee is $500.

For older kids, the Teen Acting Workshop will be offered Mondays through Fridays from 6:30-9 p.m. during the same July 9-20 time period.

Jane Hilary, who studied at England’s Royal Theater Company, is the program instructor.

“Teens will study acting, improvisation and how to audition,” Harris said. “This class is a crash course for teens looking for an exceptional summer workshop. Evening classes leave plenty of time to go to the beach or have a summer job.”

Both classes culminate July 20 with a final performance for family and friends. Further information may be obtained by contacting Kelly Herman at the Laguna Playhouse, (949) 497-2787, ext. 230.