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2026 FALL CLASSES

HCT is committed to making theatre education accessible to all. If you require information about scholarships, please contact the Education Director, Kelsey Kott HERE

September 1-24 Tuesdays and Thursdays Join us for a deep dive into some of the most epic characters through musical theatre dance! In this class, students will learn musical theatre choreography to some of the most iconic songs where characters come into their own power! Students will use acting exercises to discover their own inner power and how they can bring it to their characters. This is a great opportunity for students that are wanting to learn how a traditional choreography rehearsal is run and gain dance experience for their next musical theatre audition. There will be a brief performance on the last day of class for family and friends to attend. This class will be taught by Kendall Melton. Registration closes Friday, August 28th at 5 PM.

$150

 

Ages 8-9 4:30-5:30 PM

Ages 10-12 5:30-6:30 PM

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Scene Study Intensive

$25

 

Ages 8-12
 

Saturday, September 19 2-3:30 PM Interested in auditioning for our upcoming production of Frozen? Join us for an audition workshop so you can be extra prepared! This workshop is for students ages 8-12 and will cover the audition materials for the roles of Young Anna and Young Elsa. Students will learn the audition sides and song selection. Students will also learn how to address nerves and the importance of supporting their fellow auditionees throughout the process. The goal of this class is to prepare students to give their best audition possible, but also to build a supportive community of young actors. You do not have to audition for Frozen in order to sign up for the audition workshop. Registration closes Wednesday, September 16th at 5 PM.

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September 7-28 Mondays 5-6:30 PM *Special public performance Friday, October 2nd at 6 PM After the smashing success of the summer camp, Teen Improvageddon is back for more! Improvageddon is a game show created by the HCT Artistic Director Eric Seale that combines the skills of improvisation with the pageantry of professional wrestling with the camaraderie of Family Feud! Students will develop their skills as improvisers through a series of short-form games that encourage managing impulses, creating characters physically, and story-telling with a clear objective. There will be a free public performance on Friday, October 2nd at 6 PM where students will compete for the belt! This class will be taught by HCT’s Education Director, Kelsey Kott. Registration closes Wednesday, September 2nd at 5 PM.

$125

 

Ages 12-14
 

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Studio One Act
Everything Is A Puppet!

Saturday, October 24th 1-4 PM Someone once said “an actor prepares…” but what does this actually look like in practice? The scene study intensive was designed for students looking for an accelerated acting class offering guidance in script analysis, character development, and rehearsal techniques. All of these skills are essential to becoming a responsible actor who explores the full depth of their characters. Students will be assigned a scene to work on throughout the class and will receive direct feedback from the instructor. This class is intended for students to be on their feet actively rehearsing in addition to discussing theory and receiving side coaching from the instructor. Students will receive their scene assignments prior to the day of the intensive. This class will be taught by Education Director Kelsey Kott.

$30

Adults 18 and up
 

October 6-27 Tuesdays 5-7 PM *Special public performance Wednesday, October 28th @ 6 PM Devious. Compassionate. Impulsive. Courageous. Orderly. Brett Holland’s one act play An Experiment asks if any of these personality traits can help us survive extreme duress. The studio one act class is a new opportunity for students wanting to grow as actors while working on a role in a staged production. Students will be cast and rehearse throughout the class, culminating in a public performance in the Council Chamber at the end of the month. Optional auditions will be Monday October 5th at 5 PM. Class tuition covers one copy of the script, licensing fees, and design element fees. This production will be directed by Education Director Kelsey Kott.

$175​

Ages 12-15
 

Saturday, October 3rd 1-4 PM Join us for an afternoon of puppet making just a few weeks ahead of HCT’s production of Hand to God by Robert Askins! Students will begin by making a paper bag puppet and giving it a distinct personality. They will learn how to manipulate the puppet to embody that personality. Then, students will move on to making a sock puppet just like the characters in the play. Students will get to keep their puppets! This class will be taught by Artistic Director Eric Seale, and all materials will be provided.

 

$50
(covers cost of materials)

Ages 13 and up
 

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Professional Development Sessions

The Art of Swordfighting Workshop

Saturday, November 7th Calling all swashbucklers! Get ready for a crash course in the art of swordfighting. Students will learn the basics of one-armed combat, using dowel rods as their weapon of choice. Students will also study the role of story-telling while they slash, parry, thrust, etc. Above all, students will learn that safety is non-negotiable, and that it is the responsibility of the actor to protect their partner while selling the fight to the audience. By the end of the workshop, students will be able to demonstrate a full combination, both as attacker and defender. This class will be taught by HCT Artistic Director Eric Seale.

$30

 

Ages 10-12 10 AM-12 PM

Ages 13 and up 2-4 PM

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Professional Development Session
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Available upon request. Prices may vary. HCT is proud to offer professional development sessions in public speaking, improvisation, team-building, etc. The skills taught in the theatre play a vital role in the holistic development of effective leaders, no matter what their profession is. Our professional development sessions will finesse your communication skills, promote critical thinking, and boost your confidence. If you are interested in hiring us for your next workplace event, complete the form below.

NOTICE: HCT reserves the right to cancel any courses that do not meet the registration minimum. Tuition will only be refunded to students for any classes that do not meet the registration minimum. All classes will take place in person at HCT. If class is unable to take place in person for any reason, a virtual class may be possible at the discretion of the Education Director. HCT classes are NOT open to the public to watch; in class performances may welcome audiences by personal invitation only.

© HICKORY COMMUNITY THEATRE 2026
30 3rd ST NW Hickory, NC 28601

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