815.356.9212
26 N Williams Street, Crystal Lake, IL 60014
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School For The Arts

  • School For The Arts

At Raue Center School For The Arts (RCSA), we believe that every student deserves the chance to shine. Whether you’re stepping on stage for the first time, perfecting your craft, trying something totally new, or discovering the joy of creative expression, RCSA is where talent grows and confidence soars. RCSA extends a warm welcome to all members of the community. We believe that our brand is built on the principles of diversity and inclusion, and we are committed to fostering an environment where everyone is treated equally, regardless of their identity.

From acting and musical theatre, voice and dance to, improv, adult stand-up comedy, and more! Our classes are designed to inspire, challenge, and nurture students of all ages. Guided by professional artists and educators, students not only build performance skills but also teamwork, discipline, and self-expression which are tools that last a lifetime. Risk, Create. Achieve. Strive.

Why get involved with us? Because the arts aren’t just for the stage…they’re for life! RCSA is more than a program, it’s a community. A place to explore creativity, make new friends, and discover the power of storytelling. Let’s break it down in the simplest of terms:

  • Help in developing the skills to be a well-rounded person.
  • Building confidence in public speaking and sharing in front of others.
  • Exploring your imagination and creativity in a safe environment free of judgment or criticism.
  • Developing social skills and communication in a world where screens often dominate our lives.
  • Collaboration and team building experiences shared through various skill levels and abilities of others.
  • Social awareness and expanded perspective that fosters empathy.
  • Better understanding of your physical presence and learning to exude self-assurance.
  • Problem-solving and the tools needed to successfully resolve conflicts presented.
  • And most of all…TRUST!
    THESE are the skills the arts provide that can be implemented in our everyday lives.

Whether you dream of Broadway, want to try something new, or simply love the magic of theatre, Raue Center School For The Arts is for YOU. Stay inspired. Never stop creating.

 

LOCATION:
RCSA classes and rehearsals are held at RCSA Studios on the St. Mary’s Episcopal Church Campus located at 210 McHenry Ave, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 unless otherwise specified. 

RCSA 2025 OnStage Productions

Scholarships & Financial Aid Available.

At Raue Center for the Arts, we believe the magic of live theater should be accessible to everyone. If you are unable to afford the cost of tickets, we offer a fee waiver program to ensure no one is turned away due to financial hardship. Applications are simple and confidential, and waivers are granted based on need and availability.
RCSA and Performance Ticket Fee Waiver Application

“It’s not what you’re capable of –it’s what you’re capable of becoming.”

RCSA is excited to announce the return of our Fall programming with the introduction of the new Director of Education, Rob Scharlow.  Rob brings 35 years of experience and expertise. His journey spans across the nation, encompassing directing, acting, teaching, and more.

For nearly two decades, he played a pivotal role at the internationally acclaimed performing arts training center, Stagedoor Manor in New York. His commitment to nurturing young talent is evident in his oversight of the Dramafest program, a collaboration with Stephen Sondheim’s Young Playwrights.

Rob’s teaching philosophy emphasizes the profound significance of arts education. He believes that arts not only inspire and unleash creativity but also foster emotional connections, personal growth, and confidence. 

James Mablin (Resident Music Director) hails from London, England. He has musically directed and/or played Keyboards in over a hundred shows. Favorites include Joseph and the Amazing TechnicoloredÓ Dreamcoat (UK Tour), Whistle Down the Wind (UK Tour), High School Musical (World Premiere – Stagedoor Manor, NY), Caroline or Change (Cyrano’s Theatre Company, AK), Little Shop of Horrors (Thin Air Theatre Company, CO), The Toxic Avenger (Thin Air Theatre Company, CO) and Into the Woods (Slow Burn Theatre Company, FL).

As an educator, James ran the musical theatre program at a large college in London, was a professor & musical theatre specialist at The Yale School of Drama, and most recently on the Musical Theatre faculty at Auburn University as their resident Music Director. James was also the associate artistic director and head of the music department at Stagedoor Manor Performing Arts Training Center, named one of the top summer theatre programs in the world.

James has written the vocal arrangements and musically directed opening and closing numbers for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade including the Emmy award-winning song “Join Our Parade”. In January of 2024, James stepped into the role of Resident Music Director for Raue Center For The Arts.

Want to learn more about scholarships and other discounts?
Visit our General Information page.

For information on our MISSION IMAGINATION school show season, click HERE