OCTOBER 4 - DECEMBER 3, 2021 - Fall 2021 | Online Performing Arts Institute ONLINE REGISTRATION OPENS SEPTEMBER 13 - Stagebridge
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STAND STRONG
Fall 2021 | Online Performing Arts Institute
OCTOBER 4 - DECEMBER 3, 2021
ONLINE REGISTRATION OPENS SEPTEMBER 13
(510) 210-3773
register@stagebridge.org
stagebridge.org
Fall 2021 Performing Arts Institute At-a-Glance
This session is about returning to your roots. With classes and performing opportunities that
tap into the spirit of Stagebridge, this strong and solid community of art makers is calling out to
blossom. Mainstay classes, returning favorites, and new classics blend to create a session full of
comfort and exploration for students at any level. Rest assured that Stagebridge is always here
to help you stand stronger as healthy and happy aspiring artists—no matter what the future
holds.
All class times are set in Pacific Time (PT).
Special Workshops
The Time Warp — One-day Workshop | April Axé Charmaine | NEW!
Saturday, October 30 | 10a - 2:30p | $100
Mondays
The Character’s Architect | Jeff Lee | NEW! Singing with Scrumbly | Scrumbly Koldewyn
10a - 12p | $231 10a - 12:30p | $238
Tuesdays
Singing with Scrumbly | Scrumbly Koldewyn Tap in Time | Sam Weber
10 - 11:30a | $209 2 - 3p | $164 per quarter
Compassionate Tappin’ Level 1 | Lucia Fanelli Quarter 1: Sept 14 - Nov 16 (10-weeks)
11a - 12p | $132 Quarter 2: Dec 7 - Feb 8 (10-weeks)
Compassionate Tappin’ Level 2 | Lucia Fanelli Playback Theatre | Martin Holtz
12:30 - 1:30p | $164 per quarter 3 - 5p | $221
Quarter 1: Sept 14 - Nov 16 (10-weeks)
Quarter 2: Dec 7 - Feb 8 (10-weeks)
Wednesdays
Shakespeare’s Greatest Hits | Radhika Rao | NEW! The Romantics | Ely Sonny Orquiza | NEW!
10a - 12p | $221 12:30 - 2:30p | $233
Empower the SOL | April Axé Charmaine Your Story at its Best | Nancy Wang | NEW!
10 - 11:30a | $194 3 - 5p | $238
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Thursdays
Singing with Scrumbly | Scrumbly Koldewyn Folktales, Fairytales and Social Justice: Part II |
10 - 11:30a | $209 Sheila Arnold
Reconnect to Your Creative Spark | Andy Alabran | 3:30 - 5:30p | $213
NEW! Joy of the Improv Game | Radhika Rao
10 - 11a | $206 10 - 11:30a | $194
Fridays
Lights, Camera, Action: Part I | Joanne Grimm &
Scrumbly Koldewyn | NEW!
1 - 3p | $242
Sponsor the Stagebridge Magic
We’re working harder than ever to get new students to take classes and
experience this one-of-a-kind community. You can get in on the action by
sponsoring a new student’s first class.
Be part of a new student’s journey now!
CONTACT STAGEBRIDGE STAFF TO SPONSOR A NEW STUDENT
Writing & Storytelling
1. Your Story at its Best | Nancy Wang | NEW!
Wednesdays, 3 - 5p
Say hello to your new coach, Nancy Wang. The renowned Eth-Noh-Tec co-founder will lead
storytellers of all levels through constructive feedback and facilitated class discussions.
Students will develop their stories by using nuanced writing and performance techniques
such as gestures, vocal variation, story threads, staging, and so much more. Bring your
bright, new stories into class and leave with a masterpiece. Maximum enrollment: 10
Price: $238
2. Folktales, Fairytales and Social Justice: Part II | Sheila Arnold
6-weeks | October 7 - November 11
Thursdays, 3:30 - 5:30p
Following her dynamic previous 2021 classes, Sheila Arnold will build upon the ability to
use the world’s oldest narratives as vehicles for awareness and change today. In addition
to using folklore and fairytales in creating modern narratives, participants will learn the
Aarne–Thompson method of crafting stories and explore the world of African-style Dilemma Tales. Together,
students will create an end-of-session storytelling showcase like no other. Maximum enrollment: 15
Note: Registration in either the Winter or Spring 2021 class is a prerequisite for this session.
Price: $213
3. The Character’s Architect | Jeff Lee | NEW!
Mondays, 10a - 12p
At the heart of all great stories are the human beings whose struggles teach us something about
ourselves. Jeff Lee welcomes writers and storytellers of any level to delve into the deep, resonant
archetypal character arcs that have occurred as long as we’ve been telling stories. Students will use
those arcs to unlock the desires, conflicts, identities, and choices of the people we write about. Maximum enrollment: 8
Price: $231
Theatre & Performance
4. The Romantics | Ely Sonny Orquiza | NEW!
Wednesdays, 12:30 - 2:30p
Designed for acting students looking for a creative challenge, Ely Sonny Orquiza returns to lead
a partner scene study class exploring 19th Century playwrights. Culminating in a new showcase
unlocking the old world, advanced actors will dive into the world of romanticism and realism with
Anton Chekov, Oscar Wilde, George Bernard Shaw and so many more! Maximum enrollment:
12
Price: $233
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5. Reconnect to Your Creative Spark | Andy Alabran | NEW!
Thursdays, 10 - 11a
Have you always wanted to be an actor, a dancer, a singer, or a writer? But you felt scared
or stuck? Embrace your true creative self in a comfortable and communal environment
with Bay Area theater coach Andy Alabran. Students will engage in exercises and candid
discussions to uncover fears, anxiety and previous beliefs of performing. Whether you’re
retiring, healing, or looking to explore the arts for the first time, this is your invitation to reclaim your creativity.
Maximum enrollment: 7
Price: $206
6. Shakespeare’s Greatest Hits | Radhika Rao | NEW!
Wednesdays, 10a - 12p
Are you interested in a true return to the classics? Designed for any level of acting
experience and Shakespeare appreciation, students will learn a monologue and have
the choice to rehearse and perform one of The Bard’s famous scenes. The class will work
towards a final showcase fit for The Globe Theatre by inhabiting the greatest scenes from
Much Ado About Nothing, Romeo & Juliet, Twelfth Night and more. Maximum enrollment: 12
Price: $221
7. Choreographing Your Song | Bruce Bierman | CANCELLED
Fridays, 10a - 12p
Step into the spotlight as movement maestro Bruce Bierman directs students in their very
own solo singing performances. Students will choose songs (or be assigned one) to stage,
receive individualized choreography, direction, and learn acting and character-building
skills. Group class exercises help to develop energetic presence and musicality in the body.
Paired with accessible and fun Broadway-inspired warm-ups and movement training, this
class puts the emphasis on the individual actor or singer in a supportive and liberating creative environment.
Maximum enrollment: 12
Note: This is the first part of a three-session stage movement and choreography opportunity. In Winter and
Spring 2022, Bruce Bierman will continue offering performance classes building on movement for the actor.
Price: $221
Music & Singing
8. Singing with Scrumbly | Scrumbly Koldewyn
Mondays, 10a - 12:30p
Tuesdays or Thursdays, 10 - 11:30a
Got a passion for singing, but want to feel more connected to it? One of our favorite
Stagebridge instructors, Scrumbly Koldewyn, will help bring that feeling of singing in the
shower into the real world! With individual attention and a supportive group environment,
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students will transform into vocalists performing material that resonates with them. Maximum enrollment: 15
Note: Students will need to play accompaniment music while in class using a computer or an additional device.
Computers are optimal; however, devices like tablets or smartphones work as well. It is encouraged to have high-
speed internet.
Price: Mondays, $238 | Tuesdays, $209 | Thursdays, $209
9. Lights, Camera, Action: Part I | Joanne Grimm & Scrumbly Koldewyn |
NEW!
Fridays, 1 - 3p
The directors behind Never Too Late and The Dell will lead another musical production,
starting from the ground up. Leading to a final presentation in 2022, Joanne and Scrumbly
will lead and facilitate students through character development, script writing, and song
generation during this session to create an entirely original story. As an open invitation to new and returning
musical theatre students, Stagebridge’s next production is in your hands! Maximum enrollment: 12
Note: This is the first part of a three-session production opportunity. In Winter 2022, students will focus on
finalizing the script, casting, and rehearsal. In Spring 2022, the entire cohort will prepare for a final presentation
as either a musical film or live production.
Price: $242
Improv & Comedy
10. Playback Theatre | Martin Holtz
Tuesdays, 3 - 5p
Even with social distancing, we can blend our needs for artistry, service, and ritual. This
class explores Playback Theatre, where performers reflect the stories of their colleagues or
audience members in real time. By developing each performer’s skills with deep listening,
emotional risk-taking, creative movement, and improvisational form, students will honor
each participant’s personal stories to extend our sense of digital community. Maximum
enrollment: 10
Note: Students who have previously taken Playback Theatre with Martin Holtz have priority registration.
Price: $221
11. Joy of the Improv Game | Radhika Rao
Thursdays, 10 - 11:30a
As players create original characters and storylines on the spot, you’ll have an hour of
laughter and uplifting community connections. Students will learn to use objects as props,
to dance to old and new tunes, and to use their voices and bodies to become characters.
Say “yes and” spend this Fall laughing with friends! Maximum enrollment: 12
Price: $194
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Dance & Movement
12. Empower the SOL | April Axé Charmaine
Wednesdays, 10 - 11:30a
Use form and freedom to flex your mindfulness muscle. Join April Axé Charmaine in a
series of SOL VIDA movement classes to develop the exciting, healing movement rituals
for your daily life. With live embodiment exercises and technical practices, students will
leave with transformational dances as well as class recordings to repeat on their own.
Maximum enrollment: 12
Price: $194
13. Compassionate Tappin’ Level 1 | Lucia Fanelli
Tuesdays, 11a - 12p
This is a class designed specifically for those who have always wanted to tap dance with
no previous training—a true beginners’ class! Lucia Fanelli will use this class to move slow
and easy, laying down a structured foundation of basic moves and stability for students to
experience the joy of tap dancing! Maximum enrollment: 12
Note: Closed-toe, leather-soled shoes (no rubber soles) are a substitution for tap shoes in this class. Also,
students concerned about dancing on their floors can use a piece of plywood or masonite from a home
improvement store during this class.
Price: $132
14. Compassionate Tappin’ Level 2 | Lucia Fanelli
Tuesdays, 12:30 - 1:30p PT
Quarter 1: Sept 14 - Nov 16 (10-weeks)
Quarter 2: Dec 7 - Feb 8 (10-weeks)
This class will help students learn more intricate tap moves and rhythms to add to their
repertoire. As this class builds on the foundation established in Lucia’s previous session,
aspiring tap dancers will awaken their bodies, uplift their spirits, and experience the innate heartfelt joy of dance.
Maximum enrollment: 13
Note: Students who feel comfortable and confident in Level 2 should inquire about the intermediate class with
Sam Weber, Tap in Time.
Price: $164 per quarter
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15. Tap in Time | Sam Weber
Tuesdays, 2-3p PT
Quarter 1: Sept 14 - Nov 16 (10-weeks)
Quarter 2: Dec 7 - Feb 8 (10-weeks)
The heyday of tap dance is no longer behind us! Tap has re-emerged as a vital, creative
art through the work of the Jazz Tap Ensemble, Gregory Hines, and Dorrance Dance, to
name just a few. In this intermediate class, you’ll learn how to build on the fundamentals, add sounds to the basic
steps, and create fast and intricate rhythms. Maximum enrollment: 12
Note: Interested students should have previous experience with tap dance or have taken Lucia Fanelli’s tap
classes.
Price: $164 per quarter
16. The Time Warp — One-day Workshop | April Axé Charmaine |
NEW!
October 30
Saturday, 10am - 2:30pm
Enter the world of this cult classic with a one-day dancing extravaganza. Laugh your
way with new and old friends as Axé leads a choreographed dance from the world
phenomenon, The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Join in to learn new dance moves, dress up as your favorite
character, and do The Time Warp... again!
Note: This workshop will include a 30-minute break.
Price: $100
Instructor Bios
Andy Alabran received his M.F.A. in Acting from the American and Christian Monologues. At her core, Ms. Sheila, as she is
Conservatory Theater and his B.A. in Theater from UMass commonly called, is a Professional Imaginator with a passion,
Amherst. He has taught acting, voice, and speech at A.C.T. ‘s vision and ministry of healing hearts, unifying communities and
Studio and Young Conservatory, Oakland School for the Arts, reminding people to share their stories.
Mission High School, Burton High School, 826 Valencia, Cal Bruce Bierman is an award-winning director, choreographer
Shakes Summer Conservatory, Voice One, and throughout the and teaching artist known for inviting the creative artist in
Bay Area. He served as voice coach for productions such as everyone to play, explore and expand while creating dynamic
Begets, Hookman, and The Wolves. He is a company member ensemble theater together. He has served on the teaching
with the Shotgun Players where acting credits include: Mother faculty of Stagebridge since 2008 and began the Musical
Courage, Loot, Woyzeck, and A Seagull in the Hamptons. Theater program with Ellen Robinson along with the first dance
Sheila Arnold has been gifted by God with performance skills and theater movement programs (Joy of Dance & Viewpoints).
and has been using this talent since she was eight years old. He has directed and choreographed several original
Since 2003 she has been a full-time storyteller traveling through Stagebridge productions including: Tomas & the Library Lady
the United States and sharing a variety of stories - “whatever fits (Phoenix Theater w/ the Viewpoints Ensemble), Grandfather’s
in her mouth”, as well as doing Historic Character Presentations Journey, and Sylvia’s Advice on How to Age Gracefully on the Planet
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Denial at the Ashby Stage. Other directorial projects include: Productions and industrial shows backing up such performers
Passion of Carmen (Celebration Theater *Backstage West as Bing Crosby, Phil Harris and Julio Iglesias. Her teaching
Choreography Award*), Wade in the Water (Odyssey Theater experience includes teaching tap to children and adults at
Ensemble “NFJC award), and The Blue Dress (New Conservatory Mason-Kahn Dance Studios, Peninsula Ballet Theatre School
Theater *Dean Goodman Choice Award*).Bruce is the co- and for San Francisco Ballet Soloist, Claudia Alfieri at Studio
artistic director of the Yiddish Theatre Ensemble of Berkeley C. Fanelli loves working with the students teaching tap at
where he recently completed directing the critically acclaimed Stagebridge and is excited to be a part of this program!
online production of Sholem Asch’s God of Vengeance and won Martin Holtz is a veteran of more than 30 years as a performer,
kudos for his musical production of Di Megileh of Itzik Manger. award winning writer and artist-as-educator, in both South
April Axé Charmaine is a world-renowned, holistic dance and Florida and the San Francisco Bay Area. Over this span of
performing arts educator, choreographer, movement leader, time he has managed to interweave his love of teaching with
empowerment speaker and author. Axé (ah-shay) has taught, the performing arts. He was a featured performer in the South
performed, and trained in the United States, Ghana, Brasil, Florida Shakespeare Festival, Miami Beach Art Deco Festival, the
Guatemala, Colombia, France, and Spain. She has been using New World Festival, as well as creative director of Unexpected
dance, expressive arts and nature as tools for healing justice for Company. He is a trainer and creative consultant for the Center
30+ years. As the Founder of SOL VIDA™ she is a fusion 9 10 for Domestic Peace dealing with domestic violence and founding
artivist carrying embodied wisdom from the African Diaspora, member of the Bay Area Playback Theatre.
SomaSource, Ecstatic Movement, Ballet, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Scrumbly Koldewyn is an accomplished composer who has
Spoken Word, Guerilla Theatre, Performance Art Creative performed with the Cockettes, the Distractions and the Jesters
Movement, Yoga, and Modern Dance worlds in her being and Vocal Trio, touring throughout Europe. He has been musical
is a licensed Drama Teacher. She hones a gift for cultivating director at many Bay Area theatres including Berkeley Rep and
authentic expression, creating safe spaces and inspiring people 42nd Street Moon. His awards include the Bay Area Critics
of all ages and backgrounds to activate their true life dreams. Circle and Bay Area Cabaret Gold Awards. Revivals of his shows
Project Highlights: West Side Story, The Producers, Lion King, with the Cockettes have been playing at Thrillpeddlers in SF for 4
Out of Site: SoMA, Fab Lab, Once On This Island, Nick Cave years. For Stagebridge, he has been musical director for Comedy
H.E.A.R.D., The Denver Dance Project, Unwind + Grind, SOL Tonight and currently co-directs the touring show Never Too
BOUND and One Race Woman. Late. He also created the music for Stagebridge’s world premiere
Joanne Grimm has been a Stagebridge cast member for over musical Sylvia’s Advice on How to Age Gracefully on the Planet
20 years and the director of Never Too Late for over 10 years. She Denial, based on the works of Nicole Hollander.
performed with Generation Theatre, a Bay Area based repertory Jeff Lee is excited to be teaching at Stagebridge this quarter.
company. She started out as a storyteller and keeps her hand He is a graduate of the Creative Writing Program at Stanford
in telling tales at assisted living facilities. She has appeared in University, and writes a monthly column of personal essays for
numerous Grandparent’s Tales plays produced by Stagebridge. Seattle’s Child Magazine. He is the author of Catch a Fish, Throw
Grimm’s background includes training in radio, public speaking, a Ball, Fly a Kite, a book that teaches classic kid skills to parents
oral interpretation, improv, acting, and children’s theater. She’s and children, as well as True Blue, a middle grade fantasy novel.
been acting in one venue or another since elementary. He teaches at the Northwest Writers’ Weekend, the Caz NW
Lucia Fanelli is a professional dancer who studied tap Family Arts Camp and at the Songwriters in Seattle workshop.
extensively with San Francisco tap master, Stan Kahn, and Last year he released Over That River Wide, his first album of
his protege, tap virtuoso Sam Weber. Fanelli studied ballet at original songs. For his “day job,” Jeff works as a family physician
Peninsula Ballet Theatre School under its founding director, in one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the United States.
Anne Bena and jazz dance with Dancer Synectics Studio in San Ely Sonny Orquiza is a freelance San Francisco-based theater
Francisco. Her performance career is highlighted by shows with maker. Orquiza is the Director of New Works at Gritty City
Mason-Kahn, Peninsula Ballet Theatre, Fascinating Rhythm Repertory and a faculty member at the American Conservatory
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Theater’s Young Conservatory and Education & Community Project, the Giant Steps Award from the San Francisco Tap Programs. He is a Founder and Co-Artistic Director of The Festival, the Juba Award from the Chicago Human Rhythm Chikahan Company, a new Filipinx American theater company Project and the Hoofers Award, from the American Tap Dance based in San Francisco. Locally and regionally his directing Foundation. credits have been critically acclaimed, working in theaters Nancy Wang pioneered a unique style of storytelling, weaving such as the American Conservatory Theater, Academy of movement, gesture, music and the spoken word to create Art University, Bindlestiff Studio, Playground, UC Berkeley, her performances. In 1981, with Robert Kikuchi Yngojo, they Theater Rhinoceros and more. As an actor he has appeared co-founded their storytelling theater nonprofit Eth-Noh-Tec, in select productions at Cal Performances, Cal Shakes, New and have performed around the world in festivals, museums, Conservatory Theater, Playwrights Foundation, San Francisco theaters, schools and libraries. Nancy began her career as a Opera and Studio 52nd in Amsterdam. He most recently dancer and choreographer, adding theater and playwriting, and appeared in Jimmy Kimmel Live! and Bank of the West national then applying all those skills to storytelling, garnering her work commercials. elysonnyorquiza.org numerous grants and awards, including the Circle of Excellence Radhika Rao is a theater performer, teacher, and and the International StoryBridge awards by the National communications consultant. She performs and teaches improv Storytelling Network. with Leela Improv in San Francisco. Radhika earned an Ed.D. Nancy and Robert, besides their focus on ancient Asian from Harvard Graduate School of Education, where she focused folktales and myths, also research, write and perform inspiring on theater and the performance of citizenship. Her work is based contemporary Asian American stories such as Takashi’s Dream, on the respect for life and social justice. Rao’s work partners a true tale of an atom bomb survivor’s journey from revenge include organizations such as American Conservatory, Theater to forgiveness; Red Altar, based on true historic facts, the story Works, Berkeley Repertory Theater, Leela Improv, Enacte, of six teens who crashed into Carmel Bay on their junk boat San Francisco Shakespeare Festival, Eth-Noh-Tec Storytelling, from China and started the fishing industry in California’s Larkin St Youth Services, Life Theatre Services, Peers & Players, Monterey Bay area. It follows three generations of one family University of San Francisco, Santa Clara University, Samuel as they navigate legal and illegal racism, succeeding with Merritt University, Stanford University, Adyen, and Cisco. resilience, persistence and ingenuity. Red Altar is also a DVD radhikarao.org with a curriculum guide for 4th grade-college and soon a novel. Sam Weber is an award winning artist who has gained Nancy has written her mother’s story Bittersweet, and her most a global reputation in the world of tap dance and is in recent story concert “If We Only Knew: Betrothed, Betrayed, demand internationally as a performer, master teacher and Bewildered, Blessed” - an online multimedia filmed presentation choreographer. A protege of tap master Stan Kahn in San of her 40 years navigating life with her husband and co-director Francisco, he was a principal dancer and choreographer with Robert Kikuchi-Yngojo. Having performed for both Presidents the Jazz Tap Ensemble from 1986 to 2009, receiving acclaim Clinton’s and Obama’s inaugural celebrations, she looks forward in the U.S. and abroad while touring with the company. He to the day when we can all gather to celebrate the inauguration was the first tap dancer to receive New York’s Bessie award of a female president who truly cares about the environment for outstanding artistic achievement. He continues to appear and the people! She wants to be there! Nancy was also a at international tap festivals since being at the first Colorado psychotherapist for over 45 years and closed her private practice Tap Festival in 1986. Sam has taught and performed with such 3 years ago. She is soon to be a grandmother! Better late than legendary tap masters as Charles “Honi’’ Coles, Jimmy Slyde, never! Exciting! Steve Condos, Buster Brown, Gregory Hines and the Nicholas Brothers. He has taught at UCLA, Cal State U. Fullerton, Cal Bios are provided by and written by instructors. They do State L.A and San Francisco State U. He currently teaches in not necessarily represent the views of Stagebridge or the San Francisco at ODC Dance Commons and Stagebridge content of classes. (Oakland). Sam is the recipient of numerous tap dance awards, including the Legacy Award from the Third Coast Rhythm 10
Frequently Asked Questions
(updated 08/2021)
1. When will Fall registration begin? Fall 2021 online registration opens Monday, September 13, 2021 at 10 am PT. Visit
www.stagebridge.org/pai for more information.
2. When are Fall classes scheduled? The Fall 2021 Session will run October 4 - December 3, 2021 (8 weeks).
Thanksgiving (November 25) will be observed as a holiday. Classes falling on a holiday will be rescheduled. Classes are
currently held digitally over Zoom.
3. How do I register for classes? Students can register online beginning Monday, September 13, 2021 by visiting www.
stagebridge.org/pai. As class registration is on a first come, first served basis, students are encouraged to register as soon as
possible since some classes may fill quickly.
You will receive an immediate email confirmation receipt once your registration form is submitted. If you do not receive a
confirmation email, your form was not submitted, and you may need to register again. Check your spam folder or contact
register@stagebridge.org.
4. How and when do I pay for my classes? Registered students have the option to mail in a check or pay online with a
credit card. Currently, we are not accepting cash payments.
The final deadline for registered students to submit payment is the second day of class instruction. As class dates may
vary, please refer to the program for specific start dates. Submitting payment as soon as possible makes it easy for staff to
process and confirm student registrations.
All credit card payments will be processed through an online invoice. Checks should be made payable to “Stagebridge” and
mailed to 2501 Harrison Street, Oakland, CA 94612.
5. Are scholarships available? Yes! Visit www.stagebridge.org/pai-scholarships to fill out an online application.
Scholarship applications are due no later than two weeks before classes begin (Fall 2021: September 20 at 5pm PT).
Applicants will be notified of their status no later than one week before the start of classes. Additionally, students can
contact staff at register@stagebridge.org to set up a payment plan.
6. What is Zoom? How do I use it? Zoom is a web conferencing platform that allows people to meet digitally—all in
the comfort of their own home! For classes at Stagebridge, imagine students virtually placed within individual boxes and
arranged like a Brady Bunch grid. Students use a device (computer/tablet/mobile) with a camera and microphone to access
Zoom which enables them to interact with instructors and classmates as if they were physically in a classroom. Visit www.
stagebridge.org/pai-zoom to read our How to Zoom guide or visit support.zoom.us/hc/en-us for Zoom’s support page,
including tutorials and live-training webinars.
7. Do I need to purchase a Zoom account? No. Stagebridge hosts all Zoom classes. Students will receive an invitation
including the Zoom meeting ID number, password, and URL/web link via email to join a recurring class meeting.
8. How do I join a Zoom class meeting? Students must be registered in a class to receive Zoom class invitations. Joining
information will be sent the Friday prior to the class start date as well as the morning of the first class. Classes will be
password protected, and students may be prompted to wait in the “Waiting Room” before being admitted by staff or the
instructor. Usually, students will be able to join class 10-15 minutes prior to start time. Remember to save the class URL /
meeting ID and password for quick access each week.
9. Who can I contact if I cannot join my Zoom class? Call our Digital Customer Service Line at (510) 210-3773 and staff
will assist. Digital office hours are Mondays - Fridays, 10am to 4pm PT.
10. What are class minimums and maximums? Each class must have a minimum number of students enrolled (8-10 for
most classes) in order for the course to be offered. If a course is under-enrolled during the first week of instruction, the class
11Writing Your Best Life with Jeff Lee may be cancelled or shortened. Class cancellation or adjustments will be under the discretion of the PAI Director. Class maximums indicate the maximum number of students ideal for the course. Find this information in the program course descriptions. 11. What happens if I withdraw from a class or if my class is cancelled? Students who make a payment to the current session and face a cancelled class will be granted a full refund or tuition credit towards a different class or a future session. Students who decide to opt out of a class must do so by the second day of class instruction to avoid being billed in full. Any student who opts out of a class must contact staff at register@stagebridge.org for confirmation. 12. What are Stagebridge’s Community Agreements? Stagebridge adapted examples of digital communication agreements (created by Calling Up Justice) to encourage group accountability, agency and consent in the classroom. Students and instructors are encouraged to agree upon how they will communicate clearly and without harm in the educational space. Visit www.stagebridge.org/pai-community-agreements to review baseline agreements that should be catered to your specific class or shared meeting space. 13. When will the Winter 2022 and Spring 2022 sessions begin? Winter 2022 will take place for 8-weeks: January 24 - March 18. Spring 2022 will take place for 8-weeks: April 11 - June 3. Dates are subject to change. 14. When will in-person classes and gatherings at Stagebridge resume? Stagebridge is currently meeting with the staff at the First Congregational Church of Oakland to discuss how classes can meet in-person. The Church is currently closed until late Fall 2021. Stagebridge is tentatively looking at a reopening date in January 2022. While we have yet to determine the structure of our 2022 Performing Arts Institute sessions, our main priority is the safety of our students, our staff, and the greater community at the First Congregational Church of Oakland. 12
As vaccines against COVID-19 continue to be administered throughout California, Stagebridge staff will continue to
observe virus prevention and follow safety guidelines presented by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
15. Do students need to be vaccinated to take in-person classes? Yes, all students planning on taking in-person classes
starting in 2022 must provide proof of COVID vaccination. If a student cannot receive a vaccination, accommodations will
be made for those students. For more information about COVID protocols and student safety, contact Executive Director
Shannon McDonnell at shannon@stagebridge.org.
Equipment for online learning:
• A personal computer is highly recommended (desktop or laptop), however cell phones, iPads, or any other form of mobile
tablet devices are all workable solutions.
• An internet connection – broadband wired or wireless.
• A device with speakers and a microphone – built-in or USB plug-in or wireless Bluetooth.
• A webcam (built-in or USB plug-in). Smart phones and more recent personal computers come installed with webcams.
To get the most out of your online classes...
• Take your online class in a distraction-free zone.
• Prepare for your class by having everything you need on hand (notebook, writing utensils, music, etc.).
• Get your technology set-up and your internet or Wi-Fi connected 10 minutes before the class start time. Classes through
Zoom will be accessible via phone call if necessary.
• Frequently review your class Community Agreements.
Registration Policy
(updated 06/2021)
Stagebridge is committed to:
• Providing the highest possible level of instruction with outstanding professional artists.
• Offering reasonable fees and payment plans that take into account our students’ financial needs.
• Continuing to expand our programs and class offerings according to the needs and interests of our student population.
Registration
Registration is required in order to receive instructions on how to join classes. Space is subject to availability.
Prospective students are encouraged to try out classes during the first week of instruction. Students who wish to withdraw
from their class must notify staff via phone at 510-210-3773 or email register@stagebridge.org within 24 hours of the
second class instruction. Students who withdraw after the second day of class instruction will be billed the full tuition fee
Registered students must submit full payment by the start of the second day of class instruction. If payment is not
submitted by the start of the second day of class instruction, your registration will be nulled and you will not be admitted
into class. Exceptions are considered for special circumstances and previous arrangements made with staff. If interested,
students are encouraged to contact staff at register@stagebridge.org to set up a payment plan. Registration is on a first
come, first served basis.
Registration Confirmation: Class registration is not confirmed unless the student has received an email confirmation
receipt. We may not honor registrations left as phone messages or made in advance of open registration.
Waitlists: Students who apply for a class that is at full capacity will be placed on a waiting list for the class. Staff will reach
out to waitlisted students with registration updates.
13Class Information & Payment Class Minimums: Each class must have a minimum number of students enrolled (8-10 for most classes) in order for the course to be offered. If a course is under-enrolled during the first week of instruction, the class may be cancelled or shortened. Class cancellation or adjustments will be under the discretion of the PAI Director. Students who make a payment to the current session and face a cancelled class will be granted a full refund or tuition credit towards a different class or a future session. Fees: Class costs range from $12-$20/hour and fluctuate depending on class length, availability, amount of instructors, multiple class meeting times, etc. Stagebridge staff works hard to make our classes accessible and affordable while compensating our instructors at a fair rate. If you have concerns about class affordability, contact staff about completing a scholarship application or setting up a payment plan. Auditing fees vary from class to class. Payment: All credit card payments will be processed through an online invoice. Checks should be made payable to “Stagebridge” and mailed to 2501 Harrison Street, Oakland, CA 94612. Zoom Recording: Video or audio recording (including taping, recording, photographing, screen capturing and other methods of capture) by participants for purposes other than instruction is prohibited. Participants will be notified in advance if the meeting is being recorded and given the opportunity to opt out of video/audio participation. Shared recordings will be under the discretion of Stagebridge staff and are owned by Stagebridge. Scholarships & Financial Assistance Stagebridge is able to offer a limited number of full and partial scholarships. Students seeking scholarships should complete an application at www.stagebridge.org/pai-scholarships. Scholarship forms are due no later than two weeks before classes begin (Fall 2021: September 20 at 5pm PT). Applicants will be notified of their status no later than one week before the start of classes. Discounts: Discounts on classes are subject to availability. Discounts are not transferable and cannot be used in conjunction with other discounts, payment plans or scholarships. With our Refer-a-Friend discount program, refer two new students for the current PAI session and receive a free class. Referred students must enroll in the current PAI session. For full details and restrictions, visit www.stagebridge.org/refer-a-friend. Terms & Conditions Liability: Stagebridge is not liable for any injury incurred during class time, performances, or related activities. By signing that you have read our registration policy, you release Stagebridge from any liability in the case of injury or other harm incurred during class time, performances, or related activities. Students are required to sign that they have read the registration policy during the class registration process. Media Release: By registering for the Performing Arts Institute, students grant permission to Stagebridge to record in-class work or other item, hereinafter referred to as “Materials.” These materials may be used for Stagebridge’s website, newsletters, social media accounts, and any and all published materials. Students also release Stagebridge, representatives, employees, managers, members, officers, parent companies, subsidiaries, and directors, all claims and demands arising out of or in connection with any use of said “Materials,” including, without limitation, all claims for invasion of privacy, infringement of my right of publicity, defamation and any other personal and/or property rights. Students also acknowledge and agree that no sums whatsoever will be due to Stagebridge as a result of the use and/or exploitation of the “Materials” or any rights therein. For further questions about Stagebridge’s registration policies or the Performing Arts Institute, contact Staff at register@stagebridge.org. 14
About Stagebridge
Stagebridge, based in Oakland, California, is the nation’s oldest and most renowned performing arts organization
for older adults. Founded in 1978 by Dr. Stuart Kandell, the company’s mission is to foster a vibrant community
where all lifelong learners are celebrated and enriched through the performing arts.
The Performing Arts Institute (PAI)
Our Performing Arts Institute will help you develop the skills and confidence in a fun, supportive community.
Stagebridge’s PAI program is the nation’s first professional performing arts program for older adults. Our classes
are customized for beginning to advanced students with instructors drawn from prestigious local theater programs
such as Studio ACT, CalShakes, the Theater Department of California State East Bay, and the Drama Therapy
Program of CIIS.
Staff Board Members
Shannon McDonnell, Executive Director Claire Wahrhaftig, Board Chair
Lily Nguyen, Director of Performing Arts Institute & Prescott Cole
Seniors Reaching Out Eleanor Clement Glass
Julius Rea, Director of Marketing & Communications David Sayen
Manager Nader Robert Shabahangi
Barbara Johnson, Outreach & Seniors Reaching Out Mel Terry
Coordinator Ben Tucker
Amitis Rossoukh, Public Engagement Coordinator
Digital Office Hours
Monday - Friday
10a - 4p
stagebridge.org • register@stagebridge.org • (510) 210-3773
15Stagebridge is supported by
Alameda County Arts Commission, Arts for Oakland Kids, Bernard Osher Foundation,
California Arts Council, Clorox Company Foundation, East Bay Community Foundation, Dean
and Margaret Lesher Foundation, Lowell Berry Foundation, Sam Mazza Foundation, West Davis
Bergard Foundation, City of Oakland Cultural Fund, and donations from individuals like you!
Our community partners include
Albany Senior Center, Theatre Aluminous, Aurora Theatre Company, Alzheimer’s Association of
Northern California and Northern Nevada, Bridgegood, Center for Elders’ Independence, Elder
Care Alliance, FICTILIS, First Congregational Church of Oakland, The Marsh, Kindred Medical
Hill, Mercy Retirement and Care Center, Northern California Presbyterian Homes, Oakland
Unified School District, Piedmont Center for the Arts, Piedmont Players, Real Time Community,
St. Mary’s Center, Satellite Affordable Housing Associates, Shields Nursing Center, StoryCorps,
Storytelling Association of California, Strawberry Creek Lodge, Tell It On Tuesday at The Marsh,
Timeslips, UCSF Memory & Aging Center, Wee Poets, Well Connected, West Contra Costa
School District, and The City of Oakland Mayor’s Commission on Aging.
Local businesses that support Stagebridge include
Amazon Smiles, Barefoot Wine, C.L.P. Specialties, Grand Copy Center, Grocery Outlet, Momo’s
Flowers and More, Noah’s Bagels, Numi Organic Tea, Oaklandish, Oakland Athletics, The
Piedmont Post, RustRidge Winery, Salesforce, Solano Express, Whole Foods, and Z Café and
Bar.
Special thanks to
Edmund Au Yeung, Dee Bell and Nicki Chapman, Ronnie Casey, B. Avalon and everyone at
FCCO, Creative Aging Collective SF, Gray Cathrall and Nancy Kurkjian, Jazmin Mora and
RealTime Community, Keye Liu, Denise Pate and Roberto Bedoya at the City of Oakland
Cultural Fund, Sue Dichter, Darlene Flynn, and Scott Means.
Stagebridge was founded in 1978 by Dr. Stuart Kandell
Supported by a generous grant from the City of Oakland Cultural Funding ProgramYou can also read
