Theatre Program

Theatre Artist Program

The Theatre Program within COCA’s Pre-Professional Division (PPD) is designed for students who want rigorous training to prepare them for a professional career in theatre as well as for students who want an intensive style of conservatory training.

Questions? Contact:

Will Bonfiglio

Artistic Director of Theatre

Audition for the Theatre Program

Students ages 10–18 are invited to audition for the Theatre Program.

Auditions
Improv Troupe students

Improv Troupe

Improv Troupe students ages 10–18 years old participate by audition in the company. They practice long-form and short-form improvisation, sketch comedy, and activities that involve audience participation—vital skills for every versatile actor, director, and writer. To audition for Improv Troupe, students attend an improv workshop.

Annual Company Dues: $475

  • Requirements: Improv Troupe is a full school year (September–May) commitment and each semester includes a public, ticketed performance at COCA. Students are required to participate in 1 hour of rehearsal each week, and enroll in a minimum of 3 classes per week to augment their development as a Pre-Professional Division artist: An appropriate level acting class; Setting the Stage or Directing and Dramaturgy; and one other elective of their choice. Their course levels will be given on acceptance.
  • Performance Opportunities: Students have the opportunity to participate in two performances each year.
  • Support Services: Company members have full access to free support services as needed, such as tutoring, transportation, dancewear, meals, physical therapy and help with college applications and career pathway guidance.
  • Scholarships and Recognition: Students have access to opportunities for scholarships and national recognition through curated events.
  • Access to Experiences: Throughout the year, students have unique access (including free and discounted tickets) to exciting performances, master classes, and opportunities happening in the broader arts community with our partner organizations.
  • Students also have the opportunity to advance directly to callback auditions for the spring play and COCA’s Summer Musical.

Additional Opportunities for Theatre Students

COCA student performance opportunities are available to the general public, but COCA Theatre Pre-Professional Division students who participate in companies and attend their required classes are able to go directly to callbacks in these audition processes. Students in these performances pay a $275 participation/training fee. Sliding scale tuition is available for cast students. Watch for audition notices to learn more about the specific timing.

Design/Tech Mentorship Placements

In addition to performance opportunities, design/tech mentorship placements are available only to COCA Theatre Pre-Professional Division students. Students who are interested in exploring positions like set, light, or costume design/build, stage management, or directing can be paired with a professional adult and shadow them through an entire production. Students with a full show design/tech mentorship placement pay a $275 participation/training fee. Sliding scale tuition is available. Email Carolyn Carter at ccarter@cocastl.org to learn more information about placements in either of these productions.

Backstage Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer opportunities to work backstage on COCA productions are available and encouraged for COCA Theatre Pre-Professional Division students, but open to all students. Students interested in a future career in theatre arts will gain valuable experience, perspective, and contacts who will be helpful in recommendations for college applications. To volunteer backstage, students must have completed a Theatre Production class or obtained permission of the Technical Director with information about school-based, backstage experience. Email Shawna Flanigan at sflanigan@cocastl.org for more information about volunteering.