So summer has been fun, being a couch potato and putting off any and all mental exercise, but for those of you who are ready for a little stimulus and a whole lot of fun, listen up: The Santa Fe Theatre Festival has put together an outreach program for kids and teens ages 10 and up in acting, performing and dance.

"We want to create a fun, free place that kids can go to be creative and grow in the arts," said Caitlin Newman, director of the program. "Theater should be accessible to all, and inspire any place it can."

Newman is a New York City-based actress with an extensive background in musical and children's theater. She is not only coordinating, but teaching some of the classes as well.

Newman also is performing in one of the three plays, The Love Of Three Oranges, directed by Rima Miller.

These free workshops include styles and studies from Shakespeare to film acting to Russian movement and more.

"All instructors are professional actors from New York City, Los Angeles and the Santa Fe area," Newman said. The classes run for an hour and a half, Wednesdays and Fridays, at the Armory for the Arts Theatre, 1050 Old Pecos Trail. Times vary, so check the contact information below.

"The goal is to reach as many children as possible," Newman said. "I believe that the confidence gained from speaking in front of a group and 'playing' with others can have an impact on everything." Newman explains with great spirit and confidence how theater exposure can positively translate to school, social settings and overall development.

Last year, the festival was praised for its productions and theater offerings, and this year is just as promising. The festival is relatively new to Santa Fe, but has been picking up tremendous speed due in part to the ensemble of professional actors, directors, designers and educators, collected from around the country. Their passion for theater is truly contagious. Also, because they just offer so much for the public to participate in.

The workshops are open to any and all, including newcomers to the stage or seasoned performers. There is no contract of commitment and no obligation to be there every single time. However, the doors are always open to take the stage.

"Teens that are interested in the arts may use this as a great free potential training," Newman said. She believes that this type of opportunity cannot only assist in training, but will also help with future employment in the theater.

"Also, for those just looking to see what theater is all about, it's a low-pressure, exciting way to try out all the different aspects," Newman said. "Plain old fun, no TV required."

For more times and location info contact www.santafetheatrefestival.org or e-mail friends@umbrellahat.org.

Jahla Seppanen is a 2010 graduate of Monte del Sol. You can reach her at jnm747@hotmail.com.