Teens Register for Drama at the Library

Registration is now open for the seventh annual Sedona Youth Theatre workshop, which begins July 12 at Sedona Public Library. This popular library program for ages 10 through 17 offers a unique group learning experience.  Fifteen workshop hours include theatre games, learning and honing improvisational skills, practicing correct vocal and breathing techniques, understanding disciplines of stage performance, and building team skills and confidence. At the end of the workshop, participants will stage a performance at the Library.
 
Sedona Youth Theatre is the creation of Dev Ross and Shondra Jepperson, two extremely talented and hardworking professionals. Award-winning screenwriter and children’s book author Dev Ross has been writing for adults and children for over 30 years. We have many of her books in our library! Her awards include an Action in Children’s Television Award, a Dramalogue Award, an Emmy Award, and a Humanitas Award.  Credits include writing films and television programs for Disney, Fox Kids, Universal Cartoon Studios, The Cartoon Network, Discovery Channel, Nickelodeon, PBS, and more. Dev was also the Artistic Director of the Emmy Award–winning Twelfth Night Repertory Company, an educational theatre and television troop.

Shondra Jepperson attended Julliard’s acting school in New York. She is a full-time singer-songwriter, actress, and musician, not to mention that she’s also a professional audio production specialist who composes and arranges music for shows, commercials, and other projects. With over 30 years of professional experience, she is a skilled and busy entertainer.  You’ll also find Shondra on Sedona’s Red Rock Television 16 as their co-anchor and virtual tour guide. 

About Sedona Youth Theatre, Shondra commented, “We have so many talented kids here in Sedona and the Verde Valley.  It’s very rewarding to work with these kids and see what their talents bring to the performance at the end of the workshop.” Dev Ross added, “We focus the kids on working together, creatively as a team, and every year the kids do a great job in accomplishing that and even more. We’re always proud of them.”

Thanks to the Friends of the Library’s sponsorship of Sedona Youth Theatre, participants can choose to volunteer in the Children’s Room in exchange for a reduction in the $85 cost of the workshop. For every three hours worked, the price is reduced $25—work nine hours, and the cost of the 15-hour workshop is down to $10!  Register soon, as volunteer hours need to be scheduled and completed by June 30. Call 928-282-7714 ext. 119 for more information.

Sedona Public Library is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, partially supported by the City of Sedona and Yavapai and Coconino Counties. We also require donations and grants to fund our operations. Your tax-deductible donation may be sent to: Sedona Public Library, 3250 White Bear Road, Sedona, AZ 86336.

​Sedona Public Library
Column for May 13, 2016
Written by Karen Mack, Youth Services Librarian