This content was published: August 27, 2001. Phone numbers, email addresses, and other information may have changed.

Performance Arts Classes Focus on Jazz, Comedy, Magic, Acting

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PORTLAND, Ore. – Non-credit performance arts classes in jazz, comedy, magic and acting are being offered this fall by Portland Community College. The following classes will be offered at Wilson High School, 1151 S.W. Vermont St.Magic 101, 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays, Sept. 25 through Nov. 13, Room 118. Professional magician Dave Emery will teach quality magic tricks appropriate for entertaining friends or performing for pay. Tips will be offered on creating a routine and booking appearances. Cost is $58.Comedy Improv 101, 7 to 9 p.m. Mondays, Oct. 1-22, Room 208. In a fun and supportive atmosphere, instructor Karen Landey will help participants explore comedy improv games and learn to think quickly and respond with humor. Classes will be videotaped with segments to be cable cast locally. Tuition is $34.Intro to Acting, 7 to 9 p.m. Mondays, Oct. 1 through Nov. 26, Room 118. Participants will gain experience in character development, movement and improvisation, and create a performance piece under the direction of Cynthia Schwell. Cost is $58.Jazz! 1920s to 2000, 7 to 9 p.m. Mondays, Oct. 1 through Nov. 5, Room 117. Instructor Jack Rubinger will explore the styles and personalities of the American jazz scene from the 1920s to present day. Participants will experience a live jam session during the last class. Suitable for both jazz lovers and musicians who want to incorporate jazz into their style. Cost is $46.Acting and Audition Workshop, 7 to 9 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 4 through Nov. 29, Room 118. Schwell will continue instruction in acting skills with an emphasis on oral interpretation, character development and monologue preparation. Cost is $58. An additional non-credit performance arts class will be offered this fall at the Lake Oswego Adult Community Center, 505 G Ave., Lake Oswego. Breaking into Commercials will meet from 1 to 4 p.m. Sundays, Sept. 30 through Nov. 11. Instructor Deborah Mason will cover how to get started in professional commercials, including auditioning, working with cue cards, cold readings and improvisation. Cost is $51.For more information, contact PCC Community Education at 503-731-6622.

About James Hill

James G. Hill, an award-winning journalist and public relations writer, is the Director of Public Relations at Portland Community College. A graduate of Portland State University, James has worked as a section editor for the Newberg Graphic... more »