





The Z’s Creative Classroom offers performing arts classes to learners of all ages and abilities in a variety of mediums. It’s a safe and inviting space for all to explore their curiosity and interest in the performing arts. This year, as the theater undergoes renovations, The Z’s Creative Classroom is on the road, offering classes in locations throughout the city. To lead these classes, we’ve selected the top teachers, performers, and artists in the Southcoast.

Join spoken word artist Maia Livramento to learn the basics of performance poetry, explore rhyme and non-rhyming forms, and create original works. Come to one, two, or all three sessions! Each session will include 30 minutes of discussion on fundamentals of the art form, 30 minutes of composing, and 30 minutes of reciting and refining your performance.
This class meets from 6-7:30PM on the following Thursdays: 10/16, 10/30, and 11/6.
This class is intended for learners of all ages and skill levels.
Location : Co-Creative Center, 137 Union St, New Bedford, MA

Learn the basics of swordfighting in this introduction to stage combat. Students will learn basic sword technique that draws from western fencing and eastern disciplines. Dress comfortably and be prepared to move for every class. Safety is our priority and a prominent part of the curriculum. Appropriate safety gear will be provided and must be worn at all times.
This class runs from 6:30-8:30PM.
This class is intended for families of all ages and skill levels.
Location : Fort Taber Community Center, 1000A S Rodney French Blvd, New Bedford, MA

Calling all musicians and music lovers! Join sax player and music educator Emmanuel “Manny” Escobar for free, fun jam sessions during AHA! Nights. Grab your instruments and play – or just enjoy the live music. Musicians, vocalists, visual artists, and audience members welcome. No prior jam experience or ticket needed.
This event is at the Co-Creative Center.

Candida Rose returns for another dynamic class highlighting the traditional songs and music based in Cabo Verdean culture and heritage!
Each class will include instruction on the music and how to sing some of the songs, coaching on some of the dances that go with these songs and rhythms, as well as the opportunity for participants to share their own voice, individually and as a chorus. Genres that will be explored include Morna, Coladeira, Funana, and Batuku. Some of Candida’s original material will also be presented to encourage students to think about their own creative desires and abilities.
This class is beginner friendly. You do not need to have prior experience singing or know how to read music or speak Kriolu to participate.
This class meets from 6-7PM on the following Tuesdays: 10/7, 10/14, 10/21, 10/28, 11/4, 11/18.
This class is intended for learners of all ages and skill levels.
Location : Co-Creative Center, 137 Union St, New Bedford, MA

Seven weeks of musical fun learning the fundamentals of playing the ukulele - just for young people! No prior musical experience necessary. Ukuleles can be provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own. Please indicate if you would like to borrow a ukulele when you register.
This class meets from 5-6PM on the following Wednesdays: 10/15, 10/22, 11/5. 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, and 12/3.
This class is intended for youth (16 and under) beginners.
Location : Fort Taber Community Center, 1000A S Rodney French Blvd, New Bedford, MA

Are you interested in learning to play an instrument, but nervous it might be too hard or too late? In this class, you’ll learn the fundamentals of playing the ukulele, one of the easiest stringed instruments to pick up. No prior musical experience is necessary.
Ukuleles can be provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own. Please indicate if you’d like to borrow a ukulele when you register.
This class meets from 6-7PM on the following Wednesdays: 10/15, 10/22, 11/5. 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, and 12/3.
This class is intended for adult (17+) beginners.
Location : Fort Taber Community Center, 1000A S Rodney French Blvd, New Bedford, MA

Want to take your ukulele playing to the next level? Join Deb Sorgman for 7 weeks of musical fun expanding your ukulele playing skills!
Students should have completed a beginner course and be comfortable with beginner level skills.
Ukuleles can be provided, but you’re encouraged to bring your own. Please indicate if you'd like to borrow a ukulele when you register.
This class meets from 7-8PM on the Wednesdays: 10/15, 10/22, 11/5, 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, 12/3.
This class is intended for adults (17+) with beginner experience playing ukulele.
Location : Fort Taber Community Center, 1000A S Rodney French Blvd, New Bedford, MA

New class alert! Latin Cha Cha a.k.a. Cha Cha Animations is taught in a line dance format - no partners or dance experience required. You will learn numerous steps and combinations, ways to play with the rhythms in the music, concluding with a flash mob routine in this 8 week class series. Weekly classes are 1 hour in length. The word “animacion” in Spanish has several meanings; one is a "set of actions aimed at promoting the participation of people in a certain activity." Instructor Sue Young serves as the animador (the person doing the animacion) for this class as she encourages participants to dance and enjoy!
This class meets from 7:30-8:30 PM on the following Tuesdays: 10/14, 10/21, 10/28, 11/4, 11/18, 11/25, 12/2, and 12/9.
This class is intended for adult beginners.
Location : Co-Creative Center, 137 Union St, New Bedford, MA

Want to travel to Cape Verde without leaving New Bedford? Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms and movements of Cape Verdean dance culture! In this class, participants will discover the rich heritage of Cape Verde through its unique dance styles, characterized by infectious beats and expressive footwork. Instructor Geovanny Sequeira will explore dances like the Funaná, Coladeira, and Batuku, teaching the steps and body movements of each dance.
This class is open to all skill levels and will be a fun and educational experience for all.
This class meets from 6-7:30PM on the following Fridays: 10/24, 11/7, 12/5, and 12/12.
This class is intended for learners of all ages and skill levels.
Location : Fort Taber Community Center, 1000A S Rodney French Blvd, New Bedford, MA

Delve into the heart of jazz and blues improvisation in this workshop for musicians of all levels! Through guided exercises, listening, and performance, participants will learn how to build solos, develop phrasing, and interact with a rhythm section in real time. We’ll explore the language of the blues, call-and-response traditions, and the melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic tools that give jazz its expressive freedom, all in a supportive, safe space.
This class meets from 7-8PM on the following Wednesdays: 10/1, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29, 11/5, 11/12, 11/19, and 12/3.
This class is intended for learners 14+ of any skill level.
Location : Co-Creative Center, 137 Union St, New Bedford, MA