Adapted from H.G. Wells
Directed by Leo Lion / Movement Directed by Izzy Pflanz

“Across the gulf of space, vast and cool and unsympathetic intellects regard our earth with envious eyes.”

Earth is under attack! Unfathomable as it may seem, humanity’s comfortable reign over the world has come to a screeching halt with the arrival of a shuttle from Mars. The first modern alien invasion story, H.G. Wells’s classic ‘mockumentary’ tale reveals how everyone – scientists, soldiers, preachers, politicians – deal with a crisis that defies human comprehension. Firebird Youth Theater’s signature devised & ensemble-driven style puts teen actors at the helm of this story about human survival and resilience in the face of disaster. Can the next generation learn from our mistakes, and build an Earth where we can be human to one another?

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. Taught by professional theater artists, 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: Every Other Friday, 1:30-3:00pm
Dates: Jan 17, 31, Feb 14, 28, Mar 14, 28, Apr 11, May 2
Cost: $360 for 8 1.5hr sessions
Instructors: Leo Lion & Zoe Senese-Grossberg

Young writers learn to craft stories for the stage in Firebird Nest Playwriting Seminar. Workshop participants study classic and contemporary plays, spend in-class time writing their own projects, and learn to give generative feedback on each other’s work. Led by Zoe Senese-Grossberg, a National Playwrights Conference semi-finalist, students will hone their writing craft and work to develop their personal creative voice as they learn to tell stories for the stage. Every semester of Playwriting Nest culminates in Firebird’s beloved Playwriting Nest Festival, in which the original works by teen playwrights are performed in a staged reading series by professional actors.

Location: TBA, Downtown Manhattan
Schedule: Mondays 10am-12pm
Dates: Jan 27 / Feb 3, 10, 17, 24 / March 3, 10, 17, 31 / April 7, 14, 28, May 5 (No Class March 24, April 21) / Showcase on Friday May 9th
Cost: $600 for 13 2hr sessions
Instructor: Zoe Senese-Grossberg

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 unpredictable semester!

Location: Cre8ive Studios, 134 West 29th St, 2nd Floor
Schedule: Fridays 3:30-5:30pm
Dates: Jan 17, 24, 31 / Feb 7, 14, 21, 28 / Mar 7, 14 / Apr 11, 25 / May 2, 9 (No Classes on Mar 21, Mar 28, April 4, Apr 18) / Showcase on May 9th
Cost: $600 for 13 2hr sessions
Instructor: Leo Lion

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 directors Leo Lion and Zoe Senese-Grossberg. 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!

PLANE SHIFT RPG (TABLETOP ROLEPLAYING GAMES)

Craft original characters. Visit unique worlds. Face impossible odds. Tell unforgettable stories. Aspiring adventurers, join us for Plane Shift RPG (roleplaying game). Led by a professional Game Master, players take on the role of adventuring heroes and devise their own story set in a fantastical world. For fans of Dungeons & Dragons as well as roleplaying newcomers, Plane Shift is a creative outlet, a space for collaboration, and a chance to write your own legend along with your friends! Don your armor, down your potions, and join us on an epic adventure!