Create complex and funny performances on the spot in this semester-long creative launchpad for teens who want to master the art of improvised performance. This class emphasizes the importance of listening, quick thinking, and teamwork in creating spontaneous, hilarious scenes, and guides students to develop their unique comedic style. Improv is not only a useful performing arts skillset, but also builds confidence, fosters community building, and develops creative problem solving skills in all aspects of life. Whether you’re a seasoned actor or new to the stage, join Firebird Fledglings for a fun and spontaneous semester!

As a pre-professional improv league, the Fledglings get unique performance opportunities in the NYC theatre scene. In April 2025, the Fledglings performed their original show RUFF DRAFT at the annual Unscripted Shakespeare Festival, alongside professional adult teams!

Tell stories, build confidence, and make new friends in Playmakers, an introduction to theater class for ages 8-12. In this welcoming, low-pressure creative environment, students experiment with working together and using their voices and bodies to create settings, props, and characters. Miming, puppetry, and other theater and improv exercises are great ways to help kids get out of their shell, express themselves, and find their own creative voice and style. This fun and artistic class is a dynamic blend of learning and play. No experience needed - just a willingness to play, imagine, and create!

Location: Cre8ive Studios, 134 West 29th St, 2nd Floor
Schedule: Weds 1:30-3:00pm
Dates: Jan 28 / Feb 4, 11, 18, 25 / March 4, 11, 18, 25 / April 1, 8, 15
Cost: $450 for 12 1.5hr sessions
Instructor: Izzy Pflanz

This class welcomes students of all experience levels for a hands-on journey into understanding and performing Shakespeare’s work. The class focuses on breaking down Shakespeare’s text for both emotional and literal meaning, while also finding personal connections to his characters and stories. Through group activities, exercises, text work, and performance, students will bring Shakespeare’s words to life in dynamic ways. Participants will work on monologues, scenes, and a final group presentation. Students will develop skills that extend beyond the stage—such as confidence, communication, critical thinking, and close reading. They will also gain a rich introduction to Shakespeare’s language, characters, and timeless insights into the human condition.

Location: Cre8ive Studios, 134 West 29th St, 2nd Floor
Schedule: Weds 3:30-5:30
Dates: Jan 28 / Feb 4, 11, 18, 25 / March 4, 11, 18, 25 / April 1, 8
Showcase: April 15
Cost: $550 for 12 2hr sessions
Instructor: Benny Rendell

Steal from the rich. Give to the poor. Any questions?

Nottingham Town is overrun with whispers of Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men. Some call them vigilantes, others say they’re a threat to law and order. When the Sheriff enlists outlaw Guy of Gisborne to bring the masked archer to justice, the secrets of Sherwood Forest must come out. An interactive fable, devised by Firebird’s award-winning teen ensemble.

Location: Cre8ive Studios, 134 West 29th St, 2nd Floor
Schedule: Wed 6:00-8:00pm / Sun 12:00-3:00pm
Dates: Jan 25, 28 / Feb 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, 25 /
Mar 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 29 / Apr 1, 5, 8, 12
Tech: April 14, 15, 16 | 6-10pm
Shows: April 17, 18, 19 | 6-10pm
Cost: $1000 for 24 rehearsals + 3 shows

JANUARY: STORM THE FROSTHOLD (1/24, 1/31)

The Yuletide winds howl, and the sleighbells ring. The Frostfather’s fortress looms over the winterlands, hoarding treasures of myth and magic. Your crew of mercenaries has one job: storm the gates, survive the chaos, and rob the jolly tyrant blind. A whimsical heist-rampage where you absolutely can kill Santa.

FEB/MARCH: ENTER THE SMELTER (2/28, 3/07)

Ahoy, me hearties. You’ve heard the old sea-songs tell of a place where a pirate can change their fate -- a perilous cave where, for the right price, all your bloody rotten sins can be absolved. After this voyage, your life will change forever, provided you live long enough to see the end.

COACHING & AUDITION PREP (ALL AGES)

Since 2013, Firebird has offered programs and productions that have turned first-time performers into award-winning veteran actors. Now, aspiring young stars of stage and screen have the opportunity to receive private coaching and audition prep sessions with Firebird actors and directors. Training in scene study, monologue coaching, voice and movement workshops, public speaking, and more is available by request. Reach out with your needs and book a coaching session today!