2026 Winter Classes Teens (ages 13 & up)

The Teen Ensemble at STT is a welcoming theatre community for teens who want to explore the world of theatre. Whether you’re an experienced actor looking for a challenge, or are new to theatre and want to experience performance in a safe and fun environment, the training we provide goes beyond the stage.
Financial Assistance is available for all classes! Please contact us if you are in need of help.

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Weekly Classes 

January 11th - March 1st 2026

Actor Essentials

Mondays 4 - 6pm (Jan 12 - Feb 23)
Level: Beginning/Intermediate
Max: 10 Students


Take your skills to the next level in scene work, script analysis, acting, and audition techniques. Your feedback and individual goals will inform the specific class structure, while the overall focus will be on keeping stress down and building a positive ensemble.


Instructor: Dani Baldwin

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Original Works

Sundays 10am - 1pm (Jan 11 - March 1)
​Level: Intermediate/Advanced
Light homework required
Max: 12 Students


Explore theatre as art making. Using a collaborative, artistic approach, create an original new play culminating in a public performance. Focus on playwriting, devising, improvisation, and performance skills - as well as engaging the power of imagination.


Instructor: Matthew B. Zrebski

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Workshops (Intermediate/Advanced)

Last Sundays the month (Jan, Feb & March)
2-5pm

Meisner Technique

$45.00

Sunday January 25th
2 - 5pm
Max: 10 Students


The Meisner Technique builds truthful connections, relationships, and responses through active observation, listening, and improvisation. Experience applying these skills to your scene work and monologues. A valued technique for creating authentic characters and performance while enhancing the reality of the play.


Instructor: Chris Harder

 

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Auditioning for Film

$45.00

Sunday February 22nd
2-5pm
Max: 10 Students


Get hands-on experience using the tips, tools, and techniques to build confidence and nail your film, commercial, or self-tape audition. Learn the in’s and out’s of the industry, the best set up for your at-home audition, and how to enhance acting skills so you shine on the screen.  


Instructor: Ashley Song Mellinger

 

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Devised Physical Theatre

$45.00

Sunday March 29th
2-5pm
Max: 10 Students


Experience visual storytelling through physicality and movement. Select themes and topics that are important to you to create experimental pieces that empower your artistic expression. Focus on a “show, don’t tell” model of performance and getting out of your critical mind to make art now.


Instructor: Kai Hynes

 

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Classes are offered for all experience levels

Beginning
​Best for those with little or no theater training. Classes introduce or expand upon basic skills, vocabulary, and concepts. 
Intermediate 
Best for those who have taken multiple classes and/or have experience in shows. You understand basic vocabulary, skills, and some methods. 
Advanced
Best for those with a lot of theatre training and who need a challenge! Consider these classes similar to college-level training.
All classes are designed to build confidence and have fun... We work as an ensemble because we are stronger together!
Not sure what level you’re at? Contact us and we’ll make sure you’re in the perfect class for your experience and goals!

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From our Education Director, Dani Baldwin

I’m beyond excited about starting a theatre program for teens at Shaking the Tree Theatre. STT’s bold, innovative, and creative approach to making art is the perfect space for youth to explore their place in the arts. Through classes and workshops, we’ll provide a supportive and fun environment to expand individual skills and build a theatrical community. 

​Please reach out to Dani with any questions about our offerings or scholarship information: [email protected]

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General Information

All classes will check in and out of Shaking the Tree’s main office located on the corner of SE 8th Ave and Grant St.
​Look for the beautiful mural. The entrance is on SE 8th Ave.
Street address: 2136 SE 8th Ave, Portland, OR 97214

Travel, mobility, ADA and restroom questions?

​Check out our Accessibility page HERE

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For families new to the Central Eastside Industrial Neighborhood 

Check out what Travel Portland has to say about our unique and artsy neighborhood, and then go and explore the surroundings. We've curated a map of our favorite places to hang out. 

Here are some of our favorites (also listed in the map)

​Coava Coffee  
Upper Left Roasters
Ice Queen
Hat Yai
Aprisa Mexican Cuisine
Hawthorne Asylum Food Carts
Cartopia Food Carts
Ranch Pizza

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Cancellation and Refund Policy

We understand that plans can change, and we want to make our policies clear so families know what to expect.

Transfers

• You may transfer into a different class or program within the same term up to two weeks (14 days) prior to the first day of your current class.
• There is no additional fee to transfer into a class of equal value.
• If transferring into a class of higher value, the difference will be charged. If transferring into a class of lower value, the difference will be credited or refunded.
• All transfers are subject to availability.

Cancellations

• Cancellations must be made at least two weeks (14 days) prior to the first day of the program to be eligible for a refund.
• Cancellations made less than two weeks before the start date are not eligible for a refund.
• Refunds are not granted due to dissatisfaction with casting, role, or featured performance opportunities.
• Refunds are not granted due to illness.

Cancellations by Shaking the Tree
In the rare event that The Teen Ensemble @StT is cancelled, families will receive a full refund.