Backstage Access
Backstage Access
Part Lecture. Part Participation. Part Discussion.
Love theatre? Want to learn more about the shows being produced at Riverside Theatre? Register for BACKSTAGE EDUCATION classes, and get special access to behind-the-scenes information and discussions about our productions.
Riverside’s popular Backstage Access program is back for the 2025–2026 season with an expanded schedule. These adult classes dive into both the artistic and business sides of producing theatre, offering unique insights into Riverside’s professional and youth productions.
Led by Kevin Quillinan (Theatre Education), Jon R. Moses (Executive Producer/CEO), and Adam Schnell (Dance Education), sessions explore productions, theatre history, guest artist perspectives, business operations, and community partnerships.
Part lecture, part seminar, and part discussion, Backstage Access gives participants a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring a show to life.
Classes meet on Thursdays, 10 AM–12 PM (with some schedule variations for special opportunities like dress rehearsals).
Tuition for each two or three-week class is $75. Class sizes are limited. FREE for Patron Producers & Benefactor Members; 2 FREE for Producers Circle Members; 1 FREE for Director Members.
Little Shop of Horror Class (3 consecutive weeks)
This class will focus on the history of the show, the movie, Alan Menken and Howard Ashman’s music, and puppetry.
Course Dates: October 9, 16 & 23
Taught by: Kevin Quillinan
Disney's Alice in Wonderland JR. Class (3 non-consecutive weeks)
This class examines the history of the famous story, the Disney movies, and past children’s theatre productions.
Course Dates: October 30, November 6 & 20. (No class on November 13th. Hours for the November 6th class are 4:30-6:30 to watch rehearsal)
Taught by: Kevin Quillinan
Nutcracker on the Indian River Class (2 consecutive weeks)
This class explores the history of the ballet, Tchaikovsky’s music and the evolution of Ballet Vero Beach’s production.
Course Dates: December 4 & 11 Taught by: Kevin Quillinan & Adam Schnell
A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder Class (3 classes in 2 consecutive weeks)
This class examines the history of the show, background on the writers and composers, and the intricacies of farce.
Course Dates: January 8, 9 & 15. (January 9th class starts at 1pm) Taught by: Kevin Quillinan
Producing Theatre Class (4 weeks, most non-consecutive)
A comprehensive overview of what it takes to run a professional regional theatre.
Course Dates: January 22, February 12, March 12 & 19
Taught by: Jon R. Moses
Mauritius Class (2 consecutive weeks)
This class explores the show’s history and the background of playwright Theresa Rebeck.
Course Dates: January 29 & February 5
Taught by: Kevin Quillinan
Jesus Christ Superstar Class (3 consecutive weeks)
This class will examine the concept album, backgrounds of composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Tim Rice, and Riverside’s production.
Course Dates: February 19, 26 & March 5. (February 26th class starts at 1pm.) Taught by: Kevin Quillinan
Almost, Maine Class (2 consecutive weeks)
This class explores the show’s history and the background of playwright John Cariani.
Course Dates: March 26 & April 2. Taught by: Kevin Quillinan
9 to 5 Class (3 consecutive weeks)
This course will look at the history of the show, the 1980’s film, the leading ladies of the movie, and the history of Dolly Parton.
Course Dates: April 9, 16 & 23
Taught by: Kevin Quillinan
BONUS CLASS!
Anyone who signs up for one of the Backstage Access Classes, will be invited to the Junior Theatre Festival Class.
Junior Theatre Festival Class
Learn about the Junior Theatre Festival, it’s history and Riverside’s participation, then stick around to watch rehearsal.
Course Date: December 18 (hours are 3pm to 6:30pm)
Taught by: Kevin Quillinan
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