The Theatre Lab

★★★★★Kayleigh Berkoski

Best theatre experience I've had in my life so far. The summer teen intensive will stretch you as an actor, singer, and dancer. The people are amazing and the experience is perfect. Inclusive environment and a very safe one too.

★★★★★Alan Joseph Green (Alan Joseph)

Theatre Lab isn’t just where I learned theatre, it’s where I learned myself. I walked into Theatre Lab as a kid in the Grand Finales program, while being the grade of 5th through 8th grade, full of energy but still figuring out my voice. Being cast as Ton Ton in Once on This Island Jr., Yertle the Turtle in Seussical, and Drake in Honk Jr. gave me more than stage time, it gave me confidence. Those early roles taught me commitment, character work, and the responsibility of storytelling. I learned how to hold an audience, how to listen on stage, and how to trust an ensemble. As I grew older and transitioned into the Teens program, Theatre Lab grew with me. Performing in Cabaret challenged me in new ways. The material was more complex, more mature, and demanded emotional depth. It was one of the first times I had to step into work that required vulnerability and nuance beyond “performing big.” That shift helped shape the kind of artist I would become and as someone who values emotional truth over flash. Returning years later to perform in As You Like It and serving as Dance Captain, felt like a full-circle moment. Theatre Lab trusted me not just as a performer, but as a leader. Playing multiple roles (Bronco, Duke Senior Attendant, Grandpa Orlando, and ensemble) stretched my versatility, but being Dance Captain strengthened my communication skills, patience, and ability to guide others. It planted seeds that would later show up in my work as an educator and Assistant Director for Matilda Jr. in 2023. Coming back as an intern and Assistant Director was transformative. I wasn’t just receiving anymore, I was pouring back into the same institution that poured into me. Assisting with Matilda Jr. reminded me why I care so deeply about arts education. I saw younger versions of myself in those students: eager, nervous, talented, and in need of affirmation. Theatre Lab gave me the space to evolve from student to mentor. The impact on my life goes far beyond the productions. Theatre Lab strengthened my communication skills, sharpened my creativity, and developed my leadership abilities. It helped lay the foundation for my training at Duke Ellington School of the Arts, my performances at venues like The Kennedy Center and The Apollo, and ultimately my journey into music, theater, and arts education professionally. Theatre Lab taught me discipline. It taught me collaboration. It taught me how to be fearless in storytelling. Most importantly, it gave me a safe space to grow, first as a young boy discovering his love for the stage, and later as a man stepping into his purpose. Theatre Lab didn’t just shape my resume. It shaped my life.

★★★★★Andy Stibrik

I have taken a couple classes here and it's a great school. It's refreshing to find a school geared towards adults that has classes for people who just want to act and aren't interested in becoming a professional actor. I walked into "Anyone can act" class with no training or experience and loved it. Since then I have taken intro to acting and scene study and enjoyed it. I also like the fact all of my classes were taught by local actors. I will be taking more classes here in the near future.

★★★★★Daniel Levine

They are the best of the best! The Theatre Lab is one of the kindest and most supportive community that I have ever been in. I have been in many not so great theater programs, but having a program like the Theatre Lab is just pure magic. It’s everything I want it to be and if your kid loves theatre, I highly recommend this place!

★★★★★Ebony Vines Jackson

An amazing organization and space for the dramatic arts! After week 1, I already see improvement in my son's confidence, articulation, team work, and an appreciation for the stage! We're already including next year's summer camp in our budget.