Continuing Arts Education
Norwich Free Academy is committed to life-long arts education and appreciation for students and adults.
Programs offer opportunities beginning at an early age, and continue through high school, and adulthood. The Visual & Performing Arts Department introduces children and adults to various genres of artistic expression. Mixed media, painting, design, printmaking, watercolor, observational drawing, clay, jewelry, and metalworking are some of the many elements of visual arts classes. Performing Arts junior theater classes explore the basics of theater and stage performance, and adult education classes explore various visual and material arts.
Classes meet throughout the school year on weekends and in evening sessions. Student classes culminate with exhibitions of artwork and performance.
For more information, contact Sarah LeFrancois, Digital Arts Teacher.
Student Programs
Art Programs
Saturday Morning Art
Saturday Morning Children’s Art (SMCA) offers students, grades 1 – 8, the opportunity to experience the arts, have fun creating, challenge their imaginations, and meet new friends. Students take classes taught by experienced artists to explore a variety of media and techniques, including drawing, painting, photography, pottery, and more. There are 3 different sessions where students will experience different projects and mediums throughout each session. No session will be the same or repeat projects.
AGE: Children in grades 1- 8
FEE: Session 1 - $150.00
Session 2 - $150.00
Session 3 - $150.00
(Fees include the cost of supplies)
**If needed payment plans are available.
PLACE: Norwich Free Academy - Bradlaw Building
DATES: Session 1: September 7 - November 16, 2024
Session 2: December 7 - February 15, 2025
Session 3: March 8 - May 17, 2025
TIME SLOTS: A: 8:45 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
B: 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
*If paying by cash or check, your registration will not be complete until payment is received.
Dance Programs
Spring Dance Technique
AGE: 10-19
FEE: $150 - Ballet only
$225 - Strength & Stretch Conditioning/ Turns, Leaps, Jumps & Tricks only
$300 - All 3 classes
PLACE: Dance Studio (4220)
TIME/DATES:
Ballet 5:30-7 pm
- January 24
- February 14, 21, 28
- March 14, 21
- April 11
- May 2, 9, 23, 30
Strength & Stretch Conditioning 6-7 pm
Turns, Leaps, Jumps & Tricks 7-8:30 pm
- February 6, 13, 20, 27
- March 13, 27
- April 3, 10, 24
- May 8, 29
Ballet: The class focuses on proper ballet technique, and is geared toward any dancer. It is made up of barre work, center exercises, across the floor combinations, pointe work (must have approval from teacher), and ballet variations. Students learn beginner to advanced technique, while emphasizing musicality, discipline, and professionalism. Students are required to take class in a black leotard and tan, black, or pink tights. Shorts are accepted in addition to tights but are not preferred to check proper body alignment. Ballet shoes are required. No pirouettes/turning shoes will be accepted.
Strength & Stretch Conditioning: Students will engage in a series of gentle movements and stretches to increase circulation, loosen muscles, and reduce the risk of injury. The class will focus on improving flexibility through a variety of stretching techniques, including static, dynamic, and PNF (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation) stretching. Students will learn how to safely and effectively stretch all major muscle groups, helping to increase their range of motion and reduce the risk of injury. Strength and endurance are vital for dancers, as they support proper technique, prevent injury, and enhance overall performance. Our conditioning incorporates a mix of bodyweight exercises, resistance training, and cardiovascular workouts designed to target key muscle groups and improve stamina. A strong core is essential for maintaining proper body alignment and balance in dance. The class includes a variety of core-strengthening exercises that help dancers develop better control, stability, and posture. It also focuses on improving balance and coordination, which are crucial for executing complex dance movements and combinations. Students will engage in exercises that challenge their balance and promote better body awareness and control.
Jumps, Leaps, & Turns: This class focuses on the specific technique of turns, leaps, & jumps as seen in Jazz, Ballet, Lyrical, Contemporary, and Pom. The class will build balance, coordination, flexibility, and most importantly, muscle memory. The class will include center work as well as across the floor technique and students will learn complex variations.
These technique classes emphasize the importance of proper technique, alignment, and body mechanics in dance, helping to minimize the risk of injury. Additionally, the classes incorporate elements of self-care and recovery, such as foam rolling and targeted stretching, to help students maintain optimal physical health. Jewelry should be off completely. Hair should be neatly pulled back.
Adult Programs
Adult Art Programs
Adult Printmaking
This course is for all ability levels. Beginning students will learn techniques such as monoprint, linoleum block printing, collagraph, and drypoint etching. Students will learn through visual demonstration, hands-on assistance, and individual practice time. Whether you're an aspiring artist or someone looking to expand your artistic toolkit, this class will provide you with the skills and inspiration to create beautiful, one-of-a-kind prints.Experienced students will refine techniques and may use the time as an open studio.
INSTRUCTOR: Natalie Grayson
FEE: $325 (supplies included)
PLACE: Bradlaw Building (rm. 8229)
TIME: Thursday Evenings: 5:30 – 8:30 pm
DATES: February 4, 11, 18, 25; March 4, 11, 18, 25, April 1, 8 (10 classes)
Adult Pastels
Explore the vibrant world of pastels in this hands-on art class designed for beginners and those looking to refresh their skills! In this course, you'll discover the unique qualities of chalk pastels as you learn to create expressive, colorful artwork with ease. Through guided demonstrations and step-by-step instructions, you’ll experiment with various techniques such as blending, layering, and creating texture, all while developing a strong foundation in pastel fundamentals.
Whether you’re drawing landscapes, portraits, or abstract designs, you’ll learn how to work with the medium’s rich pigment, its soft, buttery texture, and its ability to blend seamlessly. By the end of the class, you’ll have the confidence to create your own pastel masterpieces and an understanding of how to use pastels to bring your artistic vision to life. Join us and bring color and creativity to your next masterpiece!
INSTRUCTOR: Nicole Manzoni
FEE: $225 (supplies included)
PLACE: Bradlaw Building (rm. 8229)
TIME: Thursday evenings: 6-8 pm
DATES: February 5, 12, 19, 26; March 5, 12, 19, 26(8 classes)
Adult Drawing
Unlock your creative potential in this welcoming, beginner-friendly drawing class! Whether you're a complete novice or looking to brush up on your skills, this course will introduce you to the fundamentals of drawing. Through simple techniques and fun exercises, you'll learn how to observe, sketch, and bring your ideas to life on paper.
In this class, we’ll cover essential topics such as line, shape, perspective, shading, and proportion, helping you build a solid foundation in drawing. You’ll explore different tools, including pencils, charcoal, and sketching materials, and discover how to use them to create depth, texture, and detail. With guided practice, you’ll gain the confidence to capture everything from still life to landscapes, portraits, and beyond.
By the end of the class, you’ll have the skills to approach any drawing project with ease and creativity. Join us and start your artistic journey today!
INSTRUCTOR: Hannah Kogut
FEE: $225 (supplies included)
PLACE: Bradlaw Building (rm. 8229)
TIME: Monday evenings: 6-8 pm
DATES: February 3, 10, 17, 24; March 3, 10, 17, 24 (8 classes)