A New Chapter in Theatre Education at LCT!
Classes for Teens & Adults
La Crosse Community Theatre is proud to announce the launch of Encore Academy, our brand-new education program designed for teens and adults who are passionate about the performing arts. This program offers a variety of classes to nurture talent, build confidence, and refine skills, no matter your level of experience.
For Ages 12-19, Class Size Cap: 12
Wednesdays Jan 8-Mar 5, no classes week of Feb 2
4:00-5:00 pm
This class introduces teens to core acting principles, focusing on listening, authentic response, and building confidence. Students explore how to act with honesty and connect with others on stage, all in a creative, fun, and supportive environment. Over these 8 weeks, students will learn how to truly listen, respond, and develop organic onstage relationships while freeing themselves from common acting habits like waiting for cues or “forcing” emotion. This journey is about more than technique; it’s about self-discovery, community, and learning to connect authentically with others.
Meets once a week for 8 weeks, 8 total classes
For Ages 15+, Class Size Cap: 16
Thursdays Jan 9-Mar 6, no classes week of Feb 2
6:30-8:00 pm
In this class, designed for performers of all levels, you’ll master the art of auditioning for musical theater. Learn to select and prepare material while receiving personalized feedback on your song interpretation. Explore effective performance presence and gain valuable insights into what casting directors look for. By the end of the course, you’ll leave with polished audition pieces and the confidence to shine in the spotlight!
Meets once a week for 8 weeks, 8 total classes
For ages 20+, Class Size Cap: 12
Tuesdays/Thursdays Mar 18-May 8
6:00-7:30 pm
This course lays the groundwork for creating truthful performances and will challenge and inspire anyone interested in pursuing an artistic life. Over the 8 weeks and 16 classes, you’ll learn the fundamentals of acting and how to break free from the issues that plague untrained actors: adjusting to the text, waiting for cues, line readings, and an inability to listen or work in a free and spontaneous way. This is the start of the work that puts an actor on the road to being an exceptional and confident artist.
Meets twice a week for 8 weeks, 16 total classes
For Ages 12+, Class Size Cap: 16
Wednesdays Mar 19-May 7
4:00-5:30 pm
Auditioning is a skill all its own! Master the essentials of auditioning, for both in-person and self-tape, with an approach that emphasizes authenticity and clear, crafted choices. This course covers everything you need to know about auditioning; From what to prepare to cold reading techniques to on-camera tips and tricks, this course will help you create confident and standout performances, consistently.
Meets once a week for 8 weeks, 8 total classes
MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR
HANNAH LOUISE FERNANDES is a Chicago-based actor who embodies courage, compassion, and truth in her work as a multiracial & first-generation Indian-American. Originally from La Crosse, Wisconsin, she began her performance career at LCT at the age of 8, but most recently appeared as "Maria" in The Sound of Music and served as the intimacy director for Oliver! She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Wichita State University and earned an acting certificate from the prestigious Maggie Flanigan Studio in NYC.
Named as “one of the most beautiful voices in all of Chicago”, professionally Hannah has performed roles ranging from “Amalia Balash” in SHE LOVES ME to "Cinderella" in INTO THE WOODS, in addition to her work directing intimacy onstage and teaching offstage. Most recently you could have seen her as “Anna” in THE KING AND I at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. Some highlights as a teacher include teaching at Viterbo University and was recently honored to be invited to speak at BroadwayCon in NYC among other regional and Broadway theater artists.
