Academy Classes

Applications/audition for Academy 2026-2027 will open in June 2026.

CharacterWorks Academy is a year-long program, September-June, offering application/audition-only theater arts classes that introduce more focused curriculum and training that builds throughout the year. These classes are designed to offer students additional opportunities with material that CharacterWorks often does not get to produce on the main stage, as well as intense focus on acting techniques and processes. Academy classes are for students ages 11-18 and include a variety of specialties, including, acting, musical theater, and film. Each summer, students have a chance to apply online and gain acceptance before fall class registration begins. 

Enrollment in the 2026-2027 Academy classes will include participation in all three class sessions (fall, winter, spring) and an extended performance at the Academy Festival at the end of the spring session. Payment is due at the beginning of each class session, and the student commitment is for all three sessions. Those enrolled in Academy are eligible to audition for one of the main stage productions each session. 

Academy classes meet once a week during the three sessions but also require a few extra rehearsals in May. Students are expected to commit to all classes, as well as extra time outside of class memorizing material. For 2026, there will be 2-3 required tech week rehearsals May 31-June3 for each class, and a performance at our Academy Festival, June 4-6, 2027.
 

Academy Class Locations

2025-2026 Class Nights & Locations
  • Monday classes (5:00-6:45PM) - KingsWay Community Church, Midlothian
  • Tuesday classes (4:30-6:15PM and 6:45-8:30PM) - Gayton Baptist Church, Short Pump
  • Thursday classes (4:30-6:15PM and 6:45-8:30PM) - KingsWay Community Church, Midlothian

Academy Festival 2026

The 2026 Academy Festival is scheduled for the weekend of May 29-31, 2026 at the Center for the Performing Arts at Randolph-Macon College.

Mandatory tech rehearsals for the Academy Festival performances will be scheduled the evenings of May 25-May 28, 2026 at Randolph-Macon.