FAYETTEVILLE – Registration is now open for spring specialty workshops and summer theatre camps at Totem Pole Playhouse, the historic “America’s Summer Theater” in Fayetteville.
The professional teaching artists-led spring classes target participants ages 10 through adult, offering focused training in performance skills, stagecraft and public speaking. Workshops include:
- Book It and Belt It (ages 10–14), March 28–29, taught by Bailey Wennick, focusing on selecting and performing audition songs.
- Glam and Glow-Up (ages 10–14), May 2–3, led by Jess Edwards, covering stage makeup basics and special-effects techniques, with participants receiving a customized kit.
- Rhythm and Riot (ages 16–18), March 22, 30, April 2 and 4, instructed by Jenn Reed, an advanced tap dance masterclass for musical theatre enthusiasts.
- Role and Play (ages 14–18), March 29, April 7 and 12, taught by Adam Wennick, emphasizing character development and bold performance choices.
- Battle and Bard (ages 14–18), April 19, 23, 25 and 26, led by Luke Reed, combining Shakespearean performance with safe stage combat fundamentals.
- Pitch and Perfect (ages 18 and up), April 28, May 5 and 7, conducted by Ryan Gibbs, the theatre’s producing artistic director, on building confidence and clarity in public speaking for professional and creative contexts.
These classes aim to inspire creativity, build skills and boost confidence in a supportive environment unique to the region, according to the organization.
Looking ahead to summer, enrollment is also open for Creative Dramatics Camp (ages 7–10) and Musical Theatre Camps (ages 11 and up). The programs provide young performers opportunities to develop talents, form friendships and experience theatre immersion amid the scenic pines of Caledonia State Park.
Totem Pole Playhouse, founded in 1950 and now in its third location within Caledonia State Park, has long been a regional hub for professional summer theatre productions and educational programming.
Officials urge early registration, as spots fill quickly. Details and enrollment forms are available at totempoleplayhouse.org/spring-classes-2026/ for spring classes and totempoleplayhouse.org/camps/ for summer camps.
