About

A one-of-a-kind, immersive experience, The Wilson ‘n William Theatre Program allows students to explore the work and history of two of the most important and accomplished playwrights of all time: August Wilson and William Shakespeare. Inclusive of all skill levels and acting backgrounds, this program aims to enhance the Artistic while endeavoring to be holistic through heart-centered acting coaching. Divided into multiple phases, students have consistent and intentional opportunities to grow in their craft, work as an ensemble to build a safe, vibrant community, and access to creative career mentorship.

An In-Depth Look at the Program

Forming The Character

  • RELAXATION AND FOCUS TECHNIQUES

  • IMPROVISATION

  • LIVING THROUGH WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE

  • LIVING THROUGH AUGUST WILSON

  • FORMING THE CHARACTER

  • INTUITION AND ARTISTIC IMPULSES

  • MOVEMENT, MONOLOGUE & THE POWER OF SILENCE

Putting It All Together

  • CHARACTER ANALYSIS

  • MEMORIZATION

  • HISTORY IN CONTEXT

  • VOICEWORK AND SPEECH

  • LIVE PERFORMANCES

  • AUDITIONING & RECOGNIZING YOUR PROGRESS

Wilson 'n William Theatre Program Showcase

Students have the opportunity to perform in front of a live audience, showcasing their dedication, passion, and skills developed over the course of the program. Each student will have their moment in the spotlight and receive glowing feedback from supportive mentors and creative career professionals.

Last year, on April 20th, students came together at Nyman Hall to perform emotional and captivating monologues in front of a live audience. Featuring several guest actors, including City Hearts alumna and social media sensation Honey Robinson, students received high praise and encouragement for a riveting show. In honor of their dedication, California Senator Steven Bradford awarded the students beautiful Certificates of Recognition.

Why Wilson ‘n William?

"Watching the students perform made me tear up. City Hearts is doing amazing work and providing such a safe, creative space for these kids! Congratulations!"

Jasmine Leon Guerrero

Sr. District Representative

Office of Senator Bradford

“City Hearts, your dedication to enriching the lives of young people through the arts is inspiring, and the impact you've had on countless students is immeasurable. Please continue your invaluable work, as it not only nurtures creativity but also empowers youth, fosters community, and cultivates future leaders. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of so many, especially the students of CVUHSD.”

Adriana Cabrera

Community Schools District Coordinator

Centinela Valley Union High School District

“Recently, my grandfather passed away and even though we knew it was coming, it was still painful. So, when I was practicing and doing my “Ruby” monologue, I kept picturing my grandfather and all the things I love about him. It really helped me to bridge the emotional and mental gap that I needed to be in to become Ruby.”

Alexandra

Wilson 'n William Theatre Program Alumna


of students say City Hearts has positively impacted their life outside of the program.

of students reported being inspired to do more art outside of school because of their City Hearts class.

of students say they have become better artists since participating in these classes.

Masterclass Workshop

Inaugural Showcase

Roy is an accomplished Actor, Writer, and Director who has worked on successful Film, Television, and Theatre projects. He studied Acting at Truthful Acting Studios, Orlando's top Acting Conservatory for Film and Theatre, where he received a certificate in the Meisner Acting Technique. He has over 35 film and television credits, including work on NBC, ABC, CBS, Netflix, Hulu, and BET. A firm believer in passion projects, Roy has produced his own short films and has also appeared in many shorts and independent films to support up-and-coming Filmmakers. Roy received his degree from Full Sail University in Orlando, FL.

Lester Purry is one of the country's most highly respected stage Actors. He has performed in regional theatres across the country, including a national tour as Othello in Othello at the world-famous Guthrie Theatre. He is a company member of Penumbra Theatre and has performed all across the country with other prestigious Theatre companies such as Baltimore Center Stage, Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Philadelphia Theatre Company, Arizona Theatre Company, Portland Playhouse, Palm Beach Dramaworks, Los Angeles Performing Arts Center, and the South Coast Repertory Theatre. Lester also has taught Acting and Theatre for nearly four decades at Pierce College, the Penumbra Theatre Company, Illusion Theatre, and the Freedom Theatre. His wide range of subjects taught include Voice, Improv, Character Analysis, Monologue, and Scene Study. He was recently seen in a riveting one-man show as Thurgood Marshall in the play, Thurgood, at the Portland Playhouse.

Caitlin Arndt is a multifaceted theatre artist with a passion for Arts Education. A theatre educator since 2013, her focus is on empowering youth to use their voices, embrace creativity, and take pride in their work. An Actor, Director, and Improvisor who grew up in the Greater Los Angeles area, Caitlin believes in the power of theatre. Her pedagogy is rooted in access to the Arts for all, equity, community, and joy. She has a BA in Performing Arts from Saint Mary's College of California and an MFA in International Theatre Practice and Performance from Rose Bruford College, London UK.