The Freelance Players, a theater company dedicated to the production of original musical theater by young people for audiences of all ages, is launching a Newton Troupe this fall. The program is for children ages 8 to 12. Children with little or no acting experience are encouraged to audition. Vocal and acting technique, movement and dance training, improvisation and character development are all part of the rehearsal process. The Troupe will produce an original musical each session, with a production in January and one in May.

The Freelance Players, Inc. was founded by its current Executive Director Kippy Dewey in 1974, when she was directing theater at the Charles River Creative Arts Program in Dover. Freelance programs use theater to foster trust, imagination and self-esteem in young people. The ensemble approach nurtures risk-taking, mutual respect, and cooperation among students. One of the organization’s greatest achievements is the sense of confidence and accomplishment that each young actor gains from belonging to Freelance and performing publically.    The Freelance Players, Inc. runs Troupes in Dover (Mondays), Jamaica Plain and Cambridge (Tuesdays), Needham (Fridays) and Brookline (Fridays).

The Freelance Players Troupe also meets in Brookline, on Wednesdays and is for young people ages 12 to 16 who have had previous experience in theater. The Players also produce two shows a year (December and May). Professional directors, musical directors, and choreographers staff all of the companies.

The Newton Troupe will meet on Mondays, 3:30 to 5:45, at the Grace Church, 76 Eldredge Street, Newton MA 02458  Children of all acting/singing abilities are encouraged to participate. Auditions will be held by appointment on September 9th at the church. To schedule an audition call Kippy Dewey, 617-232-1175. For more information visit www.freelanceplayers.org .

The Sunday School for Jewish Studies is now accepting registrations for grades K-7 for the 2013-2014 school year. The Sunday School is an independent school offering a once-a-week program for children in the greater Boston area. Located at the Oak Hill Middle School in Newton, the school is committed to providing a Jewish education that fosters a strong sense of Jewish identity for children and families with diverse traditions of Jewish observance.

Bar/Bat Mitzvah preparation is available but not required, and students may enter in any grade. Interfaith and nontraditional families are welcome. For additional information, please visit the website at www.SundaySchoolForJewishStudies.org or call 617-264-8855.