Classical Expression

Experiencing the Classics through Dramatic Expression

Classical Expression offers two kinds of programs for young people. Choose one below to see details and upcoming dates.

Drama Workshops

About the Drama Program

I am excited to offer a new drama program - Classical Expression. The classes will be based on Shakespearean plays and other classic literature. These scripts have been creatively edited by a company called Playing with the Plays to introduce students to the classics in an approachable way, while still including some of the authors' original lines.

These programs are intended to be a low-stress experience, focused on having fun, building relationships, strengthening life skills, and growing in moral character. Students will work towards a performance on the final day of class. Students’ families are invited to attend.

The heart behind this adventure is twofold. First, we want to introduce youth to Shakespearean plays and other classical literature. These edited versions are creatively humorous. Hopefully, it will spark an interest, and when students are later introduced to the original work, it will feel more familiar than intimidating. Second, we want to help youth learn to express themselves well. By portraying a fictional character in a safe environment, students practice storytelling, engaging an audience through body language, and speaking clearly and confidently. It also helps build character and a moral compass as we study the consequences of other people's choices, both wise and foolish.

Upcoming Workshop

A Christmas Carol for Kids

A Christmas Carol promo flyer Click to enlarge
Dates
6-Week Session Beginning on November 6, 2026
Every FRIDAY
Time
10:00 AM – 12:15 PM
No Class on November 27
Ages
7–14
Location
Modern Art Theater and Dance Academy, Scotia, NY
Director
Kimberly Lacey — [email protected]
(518) 225-8524
$135 Tuition — due at time of registration $100 Tuition for siblings
Click to Register

Past Workshops

Peter Pan for Kids

Peter Pan promo flyer Click to enlarge
Dates
6-Week Session Beginning on July 28, 2026
Every TUESDAY
Time
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Ages
7–14
Location
Modern Art Theater and Dance Academy, Scotia, NY
Director
Kimberly Lacey — [email protected]
(518) 225-8524
$120 Tuition — due at time of registration $100 Tuition for siblings $20 Script Fee — due 1st day of class

Shakespeare's Hamlet for Kids

Hamlet for Kids promo flyer Click to enlarge
Dates
July 20–24, 2026
Time
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM daily
Ages
7–14
Location
Modern Art Theater and Dance Academy, Scotia, NY
Director
Kimberly Lacey — [email protected]
(518) 225-8524
$150 Tuition — due at time of registration $20 Script Fee — due 1st day of class

IEW Writing Workshops

About the Writing Workshops

Kimberly Lacey is an IEW® Trained Instructor, teaching the Institute for Excellence in Writing methods used by many homeschool families. These short workshops give students simple, practical tools they can take straight back to their own writing — in a fun, encouraging setting.

Upcoming Workshop

Sentence Stretching Workshop

Sentence Stretching Workshop flyer Click to enlarge
  • Learn simple tools that make your writing stand out
  • Turn basic statements into vivid, engaging sentences
  • Perfect for strengthening your creative writing and essays
Date
Thursday, November 19, 2026
Time
2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Ages
9–13
Location
Modern Art Theater and Dance Academy, Scotia, NY
Instructor
Kimberly Lacey — [email protected]
(518) 225-8524
$20 Registration Fee — due with enrollment Limited spots — register today!
Click to Register