The Baltimore Acting Program is leasing a 2,500 sq. ft. first-floor space at 301 E. Fort Ave. in Riverside/Federal Hill. The Baltimore Acting Program is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization from actor, producer, and playwright Che Evans.
The eight-week curriculum at The Baltimore Acting Program is “designed to introduce acting and filmmaking to youngsters between the ages of five and 18 years of age.”
Evans expects to begin operations in the space this month.
The Baltimore Acting Program is offering after-school and weekend classes lasting approximately 75 minutes each. Students will be grouped based on their ages with a 5- to 11-year-old group and a 12- to 18-year-old group. The curriculum will feature therapeutic acting workshops, mental health integration, creative expression, and healing and self-confidence building.
“Acting and filmmaking has significantly impacted my life and I am passionate about providing a program that can empower young people in Baltimore City and beyond and provide a positive outlet through the use of performance arts,” said Evans in a press release. “We have many goals led by a mission to help students express their emotions, build confidence, enhance their mental wellness, and instill more comfort with themselves. Communication is everything in life and business and The Baltimore Acting Program will help remove their fear of public speaking, which will be the foundation for young people to achieve great things.”
“The building is equipped with a stage which makes it perfect for acting classes and it provides a comfortable environment with generous amounts of space,” added Evans.
The building, which was once a school, is owned by Michael and Melanie Ponsi. The first-floor space was previously home to a gym and gymnastics studio. Childtime Learning Centers of Baltimore is a tenant of the second floor.
Kate Jordan and Samantha Eckels of Lee & Associates | Maryland represented the Ponsi family in this transaction.
“The arrival of The Baltimore Acting Program is further proof that great people, with creative ideas, are passionate about making a significant difference in South Baltimore,” said Jordan. “The recent opening of Mudhouse Pottery Studio is another such concept channeling the creativity of young people and senior citizens alike, and there are other examples including Fit4MomBaltimore City, SoBoPlayspace, and SoBo Ballet that have similar intentions. We are thrilled to be able to offer another opportunity to enrich the lives of the children and families in the neighborhood and broader city as a whole.”
Photo courtesy Michael Ponsi
Che Evans photos courtesy of Che Evans
