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Florida Studio Theatre Announces Online Educational Programming Contact Name: Lydia Baxter Contact Email: lbaxter@floridastudiotheatre.org Contact Phone Number: 941-366-9017 ext 338 (Sarasota, FL) – Florida Studio Theatre (FST) is pleased to announce the launch of The FST School: Online, offering over 20 virtual classes for youth, teens, and adults beginning the week of May 11. This new online educational initiative will feature the same classes FST fans know and love in theatre performance, theatre creation, improvisation, and theatre appreciation, along with brand new offerings from audition preparation to helping budding artists build their own professional websites. Through the FST School: Online, students ages four and up are able to hone their artistic skills and work towards their creative goals – all within the safety of their own homes. “We are excited to start providing a safe place where students can explore, create, and escape," said Josh Ford, FST’s Director of Education. "Even though we can't physically be in the same room together, it doesn't mean that we can't share ideas and learn about ourselves. While Theatre is physically active, and keeps brains sharp, it is really about our emotions. Theatre is a safe space to share our emotions and really hear others. It teaches us that even in a time like this, we’re not alone. We need it…and it’s fun." Online classes are just $50 for four weeks of trainings. For those who cannot commit to a full four weeks, FST is also offering drop-in classes in both Dance & Movement and Improv for $10 each. No previous experience is required for joining either drop-in class. New classes have also been added to the adult curriculum, including a class with FST’s own professional creative team on how to strengthen audition skills, create an original cabaret, and even build a professional, informational website highlighting artistic work. “Taking classes at FST via Zoom is as fun and engaging as taking classes in person, and in some ways it's more focused,” said former student Steven White. “It offers a great opportunity to develop and present material in a new world of social distancing!” “I am so glad I signed up for FST’s Flying Solo online class,” said Maria Tereza Schaedler-Luera. “This class has given me the opportunity to engage in something fun, creative, and inspiring, while at the same time providing a structure to anchor my thoughts during these changing times. An online class provides you with the space and accountability to keep creating and moving forward." Scholarships are available. To participate, students will need an Internet capable device with a webcam. Classes will be instructed through Zoom Video Conferencing. For more information about classes, scholarships, or to enroll, contact Pam Smith, Education Administrator, at 941.366.1350 or psmith@floridastudiotheatre.org. For a full list of online education offerings, visit https://www.floridastudiotheatre.org/education-0?ignoremobile=y.