The Secret Rose Theatre was founded in 1999, by long time friends, Kaz Matamura and Mike Rademaekers, with hopes of producing and making accessible theatre, both new and established works, to theatre patrons in the San Fernando Valley.  The NoHo Arts District was appealing as a potential location for their Secret Rose Theatre in that North Hollywood was experiencing a renaissance of sorts in theatre, dance, music and the fine arts -- and seemed like ‘the place’ to be.

Their enthusiasm for creating quality theatre is equaled by their desire and enthusiasm to introduce theatre and acting to young people, and to pass on the joy they get from the process.  Both Kaz and Mike started out acting in plays when they were children, and they bring their expertise in acting, directing and producing to their Kids Acting Classes in hopes of developing new young actors. Besides training newcomers, Rademaekers believes that, “Taking an acting class builds confidence and self-esteem, which can help in the real world” as well.  In addition, attending an acting class at some point during one’s youth can encourage young people to attend theatre as adults, thus fostering future theatre audiences. 

Classes are offered to young people, ages seven to 13 years of age.  The number of students is kept small, no more than 12 per class.  Both Acting Technique and Musical Theatre Classes, respectively, are offered several times during the course of the year.

The Acting Technique Class concludes with a production of a one-act play in which the students put into practice what they have learned: character development and how that character reacts in different circumstances, a technique based on and in the imagination.

The Musical Theatre Class, in addition to acting technique, offers instruction and direction by professional guest artists in music, voice and movement, concluding with a full musical theatre production.

The Secret Rose Theatre is located at 11246 Magnolia Boulevard.  For further information regarding Kids Acting Classes please call (818) 766-3691.

Nora Feldman