Everyone has a story to tell, which is why Diversionary welcomes LGBTQ+Allied older adults and seniors ages 55+ for free drop-in acting classes to explore their creativity and connect with others. The Silver Squad requires no ongoing commitment. These workshops are a great way to get a sample of what it’s like to come study with us before committing to a longer class, such as The Stonewall Salon. We focus on two performance skills each session, including acting, improv, movement, writing, storytelling, music, voice and speech, circus, and much more. No prior experience is necessary, and it’s even more fun if you bring a friend. Choose from the programming below to register for a class. We look forward to helping you unleash your creativity!
All classes are in-person at Diversionary Theatre if not stated otherwise. Refer to our updated COVID-19 policy here. Please arrive early to check in and find parking. And check out our Diversionary Werks page for more upcoming classes open to all ages.
April 3 | April 17
6:00-8:00 PM
The Mainstage at Diversionary Theatre
Instructor: Rita Mooney
Take a break from adulting and come play! We’ll do warm ups and games and some structured, guided scenes. Yes, it’s vulnerable to allow yourself to be silly and create, and what a joyful and fulfilling experience that can be! This playshop is for all levels.
Rita Mooney
Rita Mooney has a Bachelor of Fine and Performing arts from Wayne State University. She began improvising in 1990 and has enjoyed it ever since. She has performed with The Grunions, Static Cling, San Diego Theatresports and Tantra Theater. She was also Head Coach for San Diego Theatresports.
In addition to teaching and performing improvisation, Rita is a certified yoga instructor, a Toastmaster and a story-teller.
Rita enjoys the opportunity to play with others using the improv tools such as ‘yes, and’, offers, listening, status changes, and so many more!
May 15
6:00-8:00pm
The Mainstage at Diversionary Theatre
Instructor: Skyler Sullivan
In this drop-in acting class, we will gently explore ensemble exercises that will teach you the fundamentals of acting and collaboration. This is a fun way to connect to your creativity, and expand your sense of play. Dress to move.
Skyler Sullivan
(He/Him/Theirs)
Skyler Sullivan is an actor/director/ and arts educator transplanted from New York. While in NYC, he worked with The New Victory Theatre for ten years as a veteran teaching artist, where he honed his skills as a curriculum developer and facilitator. Other NYC teaching credits include: The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute, the Professional Performing Arts School, and on-set coaching on two P.B.S. shows: Sesame Street and The Electric Company.
Skyler is thrilled to be working with Diversionary Theatre as it continues its tradition of arts education and outreach. Currently, in San Diego, he also teaches for The Old Globe and The La Jolla Playhouse. Skyler also works as a therapeutic clown with Healthy Humor, a nonprofit serving chronically and terminally ill kids and their families. Education: B.F.A. in acting Emerson College, M.F.A. in Acting Brooklyn College.
Arts Education is thriving at Diversionary Theatre, and our programs spread the seeds of understanding and tolerance around our unique mission as the third oldest LBGT theater in the country. Watch this video to learn more about each of our education programs.
By sharing LGBTQ stories with our community we bring stories that need to be told, directly into people’s lives. We provide a safe place for all students, and we are excited to extend a lifeline to our LGBTQ youth who may not have the support at home or at their school. We are giving people permission to be who they are, and for many this might be a life saving experience.
All of these programs are only made possible by the generous support of our donors and our community.
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