CO/LAB:core
CO/LAB:core is a branch of our programming where participants, or CO/LAB actors, travel to one of our class locations to take weekly classes or single workshops. Our curriculum is structured to accommodate many types of learning and generally includes a dance party, warm-ups, theater games and exercises, and group work. We staff each class with two Teaching Artists and 4-6 Supporting Artists (in-class volunteers), creating a 2:1 participant-to-artist ratio.
All of our core classes are open to all individuals who identify with having a developmental disability, and we aim to make all of our programming financially accessible.
If you have any questions about our CO/LAB:core program, check out our FAQ page or email programs@colabtheatergroup.com.
Weekly Classes
ACT ONE
Semester-long classes, ensemble-focused, and an introduction to theater and CO/LAB’s unique style of collaborative theater-making. Classes culminate in an end of semester showcase.
ACT TWO
Semester-long classes, themed around a specific skill or style, and focused on deepening the skills introduced in Act One. Past Act Two classes include Puppetry, Comedy, and Physical Theater. Classes culminate in an end of semester showcase.
ACT THREE
Year-long classes, themed around a specific skill or style, and focused on working collaboratively with an ensemble to develop an original show.
AGES: 10-16 and 17+
FREQUENCY: One class per week
PREREQUISITES: Open to everyone, but we suggest a CO/LAB Preview Class before signing up for a full semester.
FEE: Free, refundable deposit required.
AGES: 17+
FREQUENCY: One class per week
PREREQUISITES: Actors can take Act Two classes if they have taken two semesters of Act One.
FEE: Free, refundable deposit required.
AGES: 17+
FREQUENCY: One class per week
PREREQUISITES: Actors can take Act Three classes if they have taken four semesters of CO/LAB weekly classes.
FEE: Free, refundable deposit required.
Single Classes
Preview
This class is the best first stop if you’re new to CO/LAB. It is meant to familiarize new actors with CO/LAB tools and methodology, and provide a safe space to try theater.
Spotlight
These workshops are offered periodically throughout each semester and offer an opportunity to learn about a specific type of theater or performance style. Past Spotlight Workshops include Improv, On-Camera Acting, and Hip-Hop.
AGES: 10+
PREREQUISITES: CO/LAB Preview is only open to actors who have never taken a CO/LAB class before.
FEE: $10
AGES: 10-16 and 17+
PREREQUISITES: Spotlight Workshops are open to actors who have taken CO/LAB Preview or have/are currently enrolled in a weekly class.
FEE: $10
Special Events
Invitations to these events are sent out periodically to our current actors.
Community Events
Throughout each season, CO/LAB hosts community events where actors can meet people from other classes, spend time with actors in their ensemble, and interact with the larger CO/LAB community. Past events include Bingo Night, Movie Night, and Karaoke!
AGES: All ages
PREREQUISITES: Community events are open to anyone who has taken a CO/LAB class.
FEE: Free
Encore
This special event is a once-per-year group trip to see a live performance and interact with the NYC theater arts community. Attendees will get a special behind-the-scenes engagement opportunity.
AGES: Varies by event
PREREQUISITES: You can attend Encore events if you have taken at least one semester of a weekly class.
FEE: Varies by event