At Vanguard Theater, our philosophy revolves around nurturing excellence at every stage, from our youngest Vanguardians in our education program, to our professional performers in our main stages. We are dedicated to instilling in our young participants a profound sense of their own value and belonging within a vibrant community of creativity and growth. Through our programs, we cultivate not only exceptional theatrical skills but also a robust work ethic that empowers them to realize their ambitions. Our commitment to high production value ensures that they feel part of something extraordinary, igniting a passion for collaboration and celebration of diversity that enriches both their theatrical endeavors and their lives beyond the stage.
-
VTC KIDS teaches our youngest actors to believe in their creative ideas, have the bravery to express them in front of others, and learn to be supportive of their peers. VTC KIDS learn basic theater techniques to communicate characters, feelings, and stories, which will increase their focus and exercise their imaginations. They develop trust through cooperation and collaboration – learning to accept and build on each other's creative ideas in an atmosphere of DREAM: Diversity, Reciprocity, Education, Activism and Mentorship. These skills will serve them not just for the stage – but for the stages of life!
-
VTC TEENS is open to all musical theater lovers between the ages of 13 - 16. The program is for students who love musical theater and want to continue to explore it. Instructors empower participants to augment their skill set and confidence Once enrolled, students audition for specific roles within the production.The spotlight remains on the process, even as the production culminates in full-scale performances.
-
DREAM VTC is tailored for aspiring musical theater professionals. This by-audition program for ages 15 - 19 is guided by seasoned professionals to cultivate a professional experience. Participants, from casting to applause, embrace the demanding rigor of a professional production, often attracting the attention of talent agencies. The program refines musical theater skills and serves as a launchpad for emerging talents in the field.
-
Classes include favorites like Broadway Bound, Disney Dreamers, and Adult Musical Theater, along with new additions every session. Don't miss the chance to be part of our vibrant community and delve into the diverse world of Musical Theater. Whether you're into acting, Broadway dance, or other disciplines, Vanguard has something special for everyone!
-
Classes include favorites like Broadway Bound, Disney Dreamers, and Adult Musical Theater, along with new additions every session. Don't miss the chance to be part of our vibrant community and delve into the diverse world of Musical Theater. Whether you're into acting, Broadway dance, or other disciplines, Vanguard has something special for everyone!
LEARN MORE
-
DREAM Summerstock VTC Intensive is a 2 week comprehensive sleep-away program for the serious Musical Theater performer, ages of 12–19. Staff is led by professional actors and directors. Campers participate in skill enhancing workshops, a full range of outdoor activities, and perform in one of four fully produced shows.
VTC Kids Day Camp teaches youth, ages 8–13, to believe in their creative ideas, express them in front of others, and learn to be supportive of their peers. 2025 Day camp dates are July 7th - August 1st.
Our programs are available to all, regardless of financial means.
We offer payment plans as well as financial assistance on a case by case basis.
Magical, mischievous, and full of heart! Matilda the Musical tells the story of an extraordinary girl who dares to stand up for what's right. Packed with catchy songs, larger-than-life characters, and a powerful message about the power of imagination, this beloved Roald Dahl adaptation showcases the youngest stars of Vanguard Theater. A must-see for the whole family!
VTC KIDS - MATILDA
Performances: January 9–11, 2026
tickets coming soon
DREAM VTC - little women
Based on the classic novel by Louisa May Alcott, Little Women follows the March sisters—Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy—as they grow up, find their voices, and chase their dreams during the Civil War era. With heartfelt songs and timeless themes of love, independence, and sisterhood, this moving musical shines in the hands of our talented pre professional performers.
Performances: January 16–25, 2026
Tickets coming soon
VTC Teens - cry baby the musical
It’s 1954 in Baltimore, and bad boy Wade “Cry-Baby” Walker is turning heads and stirring up trouble. With tongue-in-cheek humor, catchy tunes, and a rebellious spirit, Cry-Baby the Musical is a hilarious, high-energy ride about fitting in, standing out, and falling in love with the wrong (or maybe right?) person. Performed by our dynamic junior teens, this show is a rockin’ good time!
Performances: February 5–8, 2026
Tickets Coming Soon
BROADWAY BOUND
9 Sessions + Showcase | $450 | Ages 8 - 14
This program meets weekly on Sundays for nine weeks, with an additional session during the final week on a Saturday for showcase preparation. Students will train in dance, vocals, and acting, collaborating with their teachers to refine their work. The experience culminates in a cabaret-style showcase on the final Saturday, where students perform their favorite pieces for friends, family, and fans!
Winter/Spring Registration Now Open!
Class Schedule:
Sundays, January 18–March 8, 2026 — 12–2 PM
Saturday, March 14, 2026 — 12–2 PM (Showcase Tech Prep)
Sunday, March 15, 2026 — 9–12 PM (Showcase Tech Prep); 3–5 PM SHOWCASE!
emotions in motion
6 Sessions | $250 | Ages 6 - 8
Through creative movement and body awareness, students will explore how emotions feel, look, and move. Using fun, expressive exercises, they’ll learn to identify and express emotions in healthy ways while building empathy, confidence, and self-regulation. This class blends dance, imagination, and emotional learning—helping students connect mind, body, and heart through motion.
Winter/Spring Registration Now Open!
Class Schedule:
Tuesdays, February 10 - March 17, 2026 — 4:30 - 5:30PM
Adult Musical Theater
9 sessions + Showcase | $450* | Ages 18+
Unleash Your Inner Broadway Star! Join our Adult Musical Theater Workshop for an exhilarating 2-hour journey each week into the world of show-stopping performances! Let your passion take center stage in this fun-filled class that culminates in an unforgettable performance on the last day of class. Don't miss your chance to shine in the spotlight - reserve your spot now!
Winter/Spring Registration Now Open!
Class schedule:
Thursdays, January 8th - February 26th, 2026 — 7 - 9 PM
Saturday, February 28th, 2026 | 4-6 PM (Showcase preparation final class); Showcase performance — 7-9 PM
Disney Dreamers
8 sessions | $295 | Ages 4 - 7
Disney Dreamers returns to Vanguard Theater this Spring. In this popular class tailored for our youngest Vanguardians (ages 4 to 7), students will practice basic song, dance, and acting skills using songs from Disney musicals. The class will culminate in an invited showcase for family and friends on the final day of class. Join us for a magical journey filled with creativity and fun!
Winter/Spring Registration Now Open!
Class Schedule:
Saturdays, January 31 - March 21, 2026 — 10 - 11 am
Dance Enhance
$395 | Ages 12 - 20
Winter/Spring Registration Now Open!
Class breakdowns and schedules:
Musical Theater Styles - Beginner | 10 sessions
Discover a variety of dance styles you might see in today’s contemporary musicals—in a beginner-friendly way. We’ll break down the fundamentals of each style, focusing on technique, rhythm, and body awareness, while encouraging creativity and storytelling through movement.
Mondays, February 9 - April 13, 2026 — 7:30 - 9PM
Musical Theater Styles - Intermediate | 10 sessions
Musical Theater Styles (Hip Hop, Street Jazz, Contemporary, Funk, Commercial Dance) A mix of styles found in today’s pop- and hip hop–influenced musicals. From sharp, grounded hip hop to fluid contemporary and high-impact commercial dance, this class trains dancers to adapt quickly while keeping performance, musicality, and storytelling at the forefront.
Tuesdays, February 10 - April 14, 2026 — 6:30 - 8PM
Jazz Styles - Beginner | 10 sessions
Learn the basics of jazz dance while exploring the energy and storytelling of Broadway. This class focuses on proper technique, clean lines, and musicality, all while building confidence through character-driven movement. Perfect for dancers with up to three years of training, but no previous dance training necessary.
Mondays, February 9 - April 13, 2026 — 6 - 7:30PM
Jazz Styles - Intermediate | 10 sessions
A high-energy style blending classic jazz technique with Broadway showmanship. Focuses on strong lines, dynamic movement, and character-driven storytelling inspired by legendary choreographers.
Tuesdays, February 10 - April 14, 2026 — 8 - 9:30PM
“MY CHILD truly had a life-changing experience with you all over these last few months. I was running those lines with her since October and was completely surprised and impressed by her performance on Saturday. WE could hardly recognize her, in the best possible way. ”
— VTC KIDS Parent
“This was my first time working with both Janeece and the Vanguard Theater Company, and I immediately felt welcome from day one of rehearsals. The balance Janeece is able to have between making sure every cast member is at their best, while also caring for their physical and mental health is such a rare thing to find in a director, and I enjoyed every moment working with her and the entire team.”
— Justin DREAM VTC
VTC Next
VTC NEXT is an intern and mentorship program for students interested in directing, producing, composing, dramaturgy, lighting, sound, costume design, and other backstage arts. Interested in our intern and mentorship programs for backstage arts?
Contact us at edu@dreamvtc.org.
Donate to support our edu programs
Become a DREAMcatcher.
At Vanguard, we believe every young artist deserves the chance to shine. Each year, we provide over $75,000 in scholarships and financial aid, ensuring no one is turned away due to financial barriers. By becoming a DREAMcatcher, you help us nurture the next generation through education, mentorship, and professional training. Your support makes dreams possible—on our stage and beyond.