The art of story starts here.

Join our 6-Week Acting Foundations class for children ages 10-14! October 14 - November 20, 2025 4-5:30 PM Classes meet Tues/Thurs

Info & Signup Here

Founder & Instructor:

Mary Webster-Walsh

Two degrees in theater, with 20+ years of teaching experience!

Working individually and in ensembles, we keep class sizes small for maximum growth!

Showcases that build confidence and skill.

Imaginative Play

Performance Opportunities

Upcoming Classes!

Professional acting techniques in a fun, supportive environment for ages 8–18.

Foundations in Acting: 6-Week/12 Sessions (Oct 14 - Nov 20, 2025)

person in red sweater holding babys hand

When: Tues/Thurs 4:00-5:30 PM

Where: Forest Grove United Church of Christ 2032 College Way, Forest Grove, OR

Tuition: $~~269~~ Early bird! $229 thru 8/30!

A group of children dressed in traditional clothing, possibly for a cultural or festive performance. They are standing on stage, illuminated by warm lighting, and appear to be singing or reciting something. The setting includes decorative elements, such as large star shapes and strings of lights in the background.

a woman standing in front of a tree with a smile on her face

Acting 101: 12-Week Class (coming January 2026!)

Learn foundational acting techniques, improve your audition skills, and showcase your talent!

Got an audition coming up? Want some help? Book an appointment!

Private & semi-private sessions (coming soon!)

Now Enrolling!

Meet Mary...

Founder & Instructor, Forest Grove Performing Arts

With a Masters Degree in Musical Theater from The Boston Conservatory (2002), a B.A. in Theater Arts (Music Minor, 1997), and improv training at Chicago’s legendary Second City, I’ve dedicated my career to bridging professional artistry with transformative education. For over 20+ years, I’ve taught children’s theater and served as a guest instructor at institutions like Bennington College, Wheelock Children’s Theater (Boston), Hale Center Theater (Salt Lake City), and the Academy of Children’s Theater (Colorado Springs). My approach is rooted in the same foundational techniques that shape Broadway and film actors—emphasizing authenticity, emotional truth, and the power of storytelling.

About us

Forest Grove Performing Arts provides expert-led acting classes for children and teens (ages 6-18) in Forest Grove, Oregon. Founded on proven techniques from Meisner, Hagen, and Adler, our studio builds confidence, creativity, and performance skills through year-round training, summer camps, and community showcases. The only year-round youth theater education program serving Washington County's rural communities.

Empowering Young Performers Together

At Forest Grove Performing Arts, we empower young performers (ages 8–18) with professional acting techniques in a fun, supportive environment. Rooted in the methods of the highest standard in theater, our classes blend foundational training with imaginative play—perfect for beginners and aspiring actors alike.

Our Offerings

Our programs include acting, improvisation, and musical theater performance opportunities, filling a gap in Forest Grove’s arts education landscape.