Young performers in the Interlake now have the chance to learn from some of Manitoba’s top theatre educators — without leaving town.
The Manitoba Theatre for Young People (MTYP) has launched weekly drama classes in Teulon, offering local children a fun and creative outlet to explore acting, movement, and imagination.
The classes run Wednesday evenings at Teulon Collegiate, with sessions for ages 5 to 8 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. and for ages 10 to 13 from 5:40 to 6:40 p.m. The program continues until Dec. 14, and registration remains open.
Drama Outreach Coordinator Cora Matheson said the Teulon program came to life thanks to a partnership with the Green Acres Art Centre, which reached out to MTYP in hopes of bringing theatre to local youth.
“For these current classes, the Green Acres Art Centre is organizing all the registrations and funding the classes,” Matheson said. “They’ve been wonderful partners in helping us make this happen.”
Students in the weekly sessions can expect to get up on their feet, use their bodies, voices, and imaginations, and explore all kinds of creative exercises.
“We do movement activities where students learn to embody different characters — or even animals or objects — and we help them find confidence in their speaking voices,” Matheson said. “There are plenty of chances to be silly, to tell stories, and to create scenes together.”
Beyond creativity, theatre helps young people build confidence, communication skills, and self-awareness.
“Theatre is incredibly connected to confidence and communication,” Matheson said. “Our facilitators create a safe, supportive space where every idea is celebrated and applause is given for every act of courage. Creating theatre is very much a team sport, and every student leaves feeling their unique self was a big part of making it all happen.”
While MTYP is just getting started in Teulon, the outreach team has already seen success in other communities, including Stonewall, Carberry, Kenora, Niverville, Gypsumville, Lorette, and Selkirk.
“The common feedback we hear is, ‘We don’t get anything like this here!’ or ‘This is so different from other things our kids can do here,’” Matheson said. “People tell us they wish it were more available.”
She added that bringing arts programming to smaller communities is essential.
“Youth should have the same opportunities as those in larger centres, especially for programs that build confidence and let their unique selves shine,” Matheson said. “High-calibre arts education should be available to all — it helps build a healthier world in mind, body, and soul.”
MTYP, based at The Forks in Winnipeg, is one of Canada’s leading professional theatres for young audiences. Its outreach programs make arts education accessible to children across the province, regardless of location.
For more information or to register, visit mtyp.ca or call 1-204-954-1702.
