CA State Thespian Festival 2026: Full Schedule

This class is for the more intermediate student with a minimum of three years of training. A deep knowledge and understanding of ballet terminology, ballet technique alignment principles, and execution of principle ballet technique are expected. The class will move at a faster pace than other levels with an expectation that students will understand and execute more complex movement sequences.

Teaching Artists

Jean Michelle Sayeg

JEAN MICHELLE SAYEG began performing on Star Search, international commercials and film from age nine in tap jazz and gymnastics. Her formal ballet training was at Le Studio & San Francisco Ballet. Sayeg became a principal dancer with State Street Ballet and SMUIN Ballet SF dancing... Read More →

Saturday March 14, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm PDT
Center for Athletics Studio 147

Workshop, Physical Performance/ Dance

3:30pm PDT

Beginning Ballet

FULL

Saturday March 14, 2026 3:30pm - 4:45pm PDT

Center for Athletics Studio 147

Limited Capacity full

Beginner Ballet class will focus on the fundamentals of ballet technique. We will go through the positions and each step that progresses at the barre, in center work, to moving across the floor. This can serve as an introduction to ballet as well as an opportunity to work on clean technique and have fun and move your body.

Teaching Artists

Jean Michelle Sayeg

Saturday March 14, 2026 3:30pm - 4:45pm PDT
Center for Athletics Studio 147

Workshop, Physical Performance/ Dance

10:00am PDT

How To Make the Camera Fall in Love With You

FILLING

Sunday March 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am PDT

Center for Athletics Studio 147

Limited Capacity filling up

Film acting isn't about performing smaller, it's about being more authentically present. Students will engage in mirror exercises to rebuild mind-body connection, explore how music and energy directionality unlock genuine emotion, and learn why the camera sees truth instantly. This workshop addresses why brilliant stage actors often struggle on screen, teaching life skills that create better actors and more adaptive humans. Students gain practical techniques and a healthier relationship with themselves.

Teaching Artists

Elizabeth Parson

Elizabeth Parson is an actor, acting coach, and workshop facilitator whose work bridges the gap between stage and screen while teaching life skills that extend far beyond performance.

With 20 years of experience as a stage actor and 11 years working in film and commercials, Elizabeth understands firsthand the fundamental differences between these mediums and why so many talented theater actors struggle to translate their skills to camera work. Her approach doesn't... Read More →

Sunday March 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am PDT
Center for Athletics Studio 147

Workshop, Television/ Film / Theatre Business