Live Arts

    Youth Acting Classes

    After-school acting classes for youth covering theater fundamentals, improvisation, and performance skills.

    123 E Water St · Parking: Street parking available on Water Street and surrounding blocks (metered until 5pm weekdays, free evenings/weekends). Water Street parking garage located two blocks away.

    4.8 ★ on Google (62 reviews) · Verified Mar 27, 2026
    Experienced Youth
    Instructors
    Age-Appropriate
    Curriculum
    Small Class
    Sizes
    Safe & Supportive
    Environment

    Empowering Young Performers

    Confidence Building
    Develop self-assurance through performance training and supportive creative exploration in a judgment-free environment
    Communication Skills
    Strengthen verbal expression, public speaking abilities, and non-verbal communication through structured theater exercises
    Creative Expression
    Explore imagination, storytelling, and character development while discovering personal artistic voice
    Social Development
    Build teamwork, collaboration, and empathy skills through ensemble-based theater activities
    About Live Arts

    About Live Arts

    Live Arts has been Charlottesville's premiere community theater since 1990, serving as both a performance venue and educational institution in the heart of downtown. Located at 123 East Water Street, the organization operates a black box theater that hosts 6-8 full productions each season, ranging from classic dramas and comedies to contemporary works and original musicals. The intimate 120-seat space creates an immersive theatrical experience where audiences sit just feet from the performers, making it one of the best live theater experiences in Charlottesville for those seeking professional-quality community productions.

    What People Are Saying

    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    My daughter was painfully shy before starting these classes. After just one session, she's volunteering to read aloud in school and has made wonderful friends. The instructors truly care about each child's growth.

    Jennifer M.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    The showcase performance was amazing! I couldn't believe how much my son learned in 8 weeks. He went from nervous beginner to confident performer. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed and the energy is always positive.

    David R.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Both of my kids take classes here and they absolutely love it. The teachers strike the perfect balance between structure and creativity. It's not just about acting—they're learning life skills like teamwork and self-expression.

    Patricia L.
    Read all 62 reviews on Google →

    4.8 ★ avg rating · Verified Mar 27, 2026

    Common Questions

    How long are the classes?
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    Our Location

    Map showing Live Arts at 123 E Water St
    Live Arts
    123 E Water St, Charlottesville, VA 22902
    Get directions →
    PParking: Street parking available on Water Street and surrounding blocks (metered until 5pm weekdays, free evenings/weekends). Water Street parking garage located two blocks away.
    123 E Water St, Charlottesville, VA
    Last updated March 27, 2026 · Reviews verified Mar 27, 2026
    © 2026 Live Arts. Published in partnership with Lantern