Shaking the Tree Drama Classes

Acting for Kids & Teens (AFKT) in Portland, OR, is a premiere TV and film acting studio that fosters a love for acting in children and teens. Founded by Emmy award-winning director Katie O'Grady, AFKT features a team of experienced working actors dedicated to helping young performers develop not only their acting skills but also confidence and essential life skills in a supportive community. Offering a variety of classes and workshops tailored to different age groups and skill levels, AFKT emphasizes the importance of creativity and collaboration through acting. Their programs also include summer camps and opportunities for individual coaching, ensuring a fun and enriching environment for all aspiring young actors. Generated from the website

HistoryOur program is in direct response of the need to afford the youth in our greater Portland community with an accessible and sustainable production driven performing arts program option. Each school year our school districts undergo drastic budget cuts or school directional change that leaves students and their schools at the mercy of whatever the outcome may be. Typically, as a result of most cuts and school changes, course enrichment options and programs are the first to go. In addition, not all schools within the districts are equitable, which means that not all offer artistic expression or performing arts at this creative level. Our program prides itself not only on strengthening relationships between students from different schools within our community, but also bringing parents, community members, and businesses together by way of supporting our youth in this program.SpecialtiesWe feature an all youth cast, where everyone is showcased. Because each role is created for the individual, every cast member shines equally in our productions. Our performance material is all original and written specifically to showcase the strengths and talents of each performer, including singing, dancing, comedy and narration. Many of our shows are driven by themes of social justice and are inspired by universal issues to which performers and audience members of any age can connect and relate. Our material is thought provoking and real, but tempered with humor and hope. We aim to make you think while entertaining you.