Johnson County Park and Recreation District Program Highlights - August 9, 2023

Here’s a sampling of programs JCPRD has coming up for the week of Aug. 27-Sept. 2:

Aug. 27 - Once in a Blue Moon Hike (Ages 8 & Older with an Adult)

Ernie Miller Nature Center, 909 N. Kansas 7 Highway, Olathe, 7:30 to 9 p.m., $9 per person, $10 nonresidents

By the light of the blue moon, join us for a quiet hike to connect with nature and the night sounds. Let your eyes adjust to the moonlight and experience the park after dark. The blue moon hike will happen even on overcast nights. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Insect repellent is recommended. Recommended for ages 8 and older. Activity number 26501. For information call 913-826-2800.

Aug. 28 - Gymnastics: Indoor Playground (Ages 1-5)

Mill Creek Activity Center, 6518 Vista Dr., Shawnee, 11 a.m. to noon, $5 per person

Indoor Playground incorporates fun-filled playtime with obstacle courses and play gym equipment. Children up to 5 years of age will have the opportunity to focus their energy while developing strength and agility. Parent/legal guardian will be asked to sign a waiver and an adult must be present with their child at all times. Activity number 29228. Call 913-826-2950 for any questions.

Aug. 29 - Games: Virtual Scattergories® (Ages 50 & Older)

Virtual Program, 10 to 11 a.m., FREE

Think fast and write quicker in this fun and fast-paced game of alliterative words and categories!  Zoom link will be emailed the day prior to the program. Activity number 26612.

Aug. 30 - Special Interest: Money Habitudes (Ages 50 & Older)

Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood Dr., 10 to 11 a.m., $5 per person, $6 nonresidents

NEW! A game-like assessment played with a deck of cards to help people understand and talk about their finances in a fun, constructive way. It allows people to pinpoint underlying financial habits, attitudes, and motivations to make behavior changes. This program helps participants engage in financial discussions and gain insight into what motivates and triggers their behavior. Participants can then predict situations that can derail them and plan successful strategies to keep them on track to reach their financial goals. This class is presented by the K-State Research and Extension office. Activity number 26616.

Aug. 30 - Intro to Acting - Fall Session 1 (Ages 5-8)

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Wednesdays, 4 to 4:50 p.m., 8 sessions, $132 per person, $145 nonresidents

Students will learn the basics of acting, including character development, improvisation, and stage presence. Through imaginative play and storytelling, we’ll work on building confidence, public speaking skills, and teamwork, all while having fun and exploring our creative sides. Whether your child is a natural performer or simply looking to try something new, our intro to acting course is the perfect place to learn and grow in a fun and supportive environment. Activity number 31105.

Aug. 30 - Intermediate Acting - Fall Session 1 (Ages 9-13)

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Thursdays, 5 to 5:50 p.m., 8 sessions, $142 per person, $156 nonresidents

Young actors can build on the foundations of acting, exploring advanced techniques and skills that will help them take their performances to the next level. Through a combination of scene work, improvisation, and character development, students will learn how to create dynamic and compelling performances on stage. We’ll also work on developing advanced communication and collaboration skills, as well as building confidence and stage presence. Whether your child is an experienced performer or looking to take their first steps into the world of acting, our intermediate class offers a fun and supportive space to explore their passions for acting. Let’s embark on an exciting journey of self-discovery and creativity together! Activity number 31106.

Aug. 30 - Advanced Acting - Fall Session 1 (Ages 9-13)

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Thursdays, 5 to 5:50 p.m., 8 sessions, $152 per person, $167 nonresidents

Explore advanced acting techniques, character development, and scene study to help students create powerful performances on stage. Through intensive scene work, monologues, and character analysis, students will hone their skills in improvisation, emotional range, and stage presence. We’ll also focus on developing communication and collaboration skills. Our goal is to provide a supportive environment where students can develop their talents and take their performances to the next level. Whether your child is an experienced performer or looking to pursue a career in acting, our class offers a dynamic and supportive space to explore their passion and develop their skills. Join us in our advanced acting class and discover how to bring your performances to the next level! Activity number 31107.

Aug. 31 - Dance: Parent and Me Dance (Ages 18 months-3 years with an Adult)

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Thursdays, 9:15 to 10 a.m., 8 sessions, $127 per parent and child, $140 nonresidents

This fun and engaging class is designed for parents and their little ones to dance and play together in a supportive and nurturing environment. Participants will dance together to upbeat music, play with props, and explore movement through creative and imaginative play. No prior dance experience is necessary - just come ready to move and have fun! Give your child the gift of movement and playtime with you by their side. Let’s dance! Activity number 31098.

Aug. 31 - Music: Showstopper Sprouts - Fall Session 1 (Ages 5-8)

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Thursdays, 4 to 4:50 p.m., 8 sessions, $142, $156 nonresidents

In this fun and interactive class, your child will learn the basics of music theater performance through singing, dancing, and acting. Our experienced instructor and accompanist will lead your child through a variety of activities that help develop their vocal and acting skills. We’ll explore popular songs and scenes from Broadway shows, and work on building confidence and stage presence. Throughout this class, your child will have the opportunity to work on a solo and group performances, as well as participate in fun theatre games and exercises. We’ll also work on stage etiquette and basic theatre terminology. This class is a great way for your child to develop their creativity, imagination, and confidence while having fun and making new friends. No prior musical theatre experience is necessary, just a love of singing, dancing, and acting. We can’t wait to see your child shine on stage! Activity number 31071.

Aug. 31 - Music: Advanced Song Interpretation - Fall Session 1 (Ages 14-18)

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Thursdays, 6 to 6:50 p.m., 8 sessions, $152 per person, $167 nonresidents

Singers will receive advanced training in vocal performances and song interpretation, specifically designed to help them prepare for auditions and vocal competitions. Our experienced instructor and accompanist will lead your child through a variety of exercises and activities that will help them develop their vocal technique, stage presence, and storytelling abilities. We’ll explore songs from a range of musical genres and work on developing a deep understanding of each piece. This class is designed for serious performers passionate about musical theatre. With personalized coaching and advanced training, your child will be equipped to confidently interpret and perform any song they choose! Activity number 31073.

Sept. 1 - Walking and Talking (Ages 50 & Older)

Okun Fieldhouse at Mid-America West Sports Complex, 20200 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., and New Century Fieldhouse, 551 New Century Parkway, near Gardner, ongoing, weekdays 10 a.m. to noon, FREE

Talk while you walk, walk while you talk! Meet new people, catch up with others, and feel great being active all at the same time! No registration required, but you can see this program online at activity number 32081.

Sept. 1 - Music: Golden Grooves - Fall Session 1 (Ages 50 & Older)

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Fridays, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., 8 sessions, $150 per person, $160 nonresidents

NEW! Welcome to Golden Grooves, the ultimate destination for music enthusiasts! Join us in this captivating music class where you can share your love for melodies in various delightful ways. Whether you're eager to perform, showcase your instrumental skills, relish in the beauty of classic records, or immerse yourself in the lyrics of your favorite songs from the past, Golden Grooves is the perfect space for you. A book club for the song enthusiast! Let's gather and celebrate the timeless power of music in a warm and welcoming environment. Join us for a harmonious journey through the golden melodies of yesteryears! Activity number 31122.

Sept. 2 - Dance: Jazz/Funk - Fall Session 1 (Ages 6-11)

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Saturdays, 10:15 to 11:15 a.m., 5 sessions, $89 per person, $98 nonresidents

NEW! This exciting new class is designed to introduce students to the exciting world of jazz and funk dance, combining elements of ballet, modern, and hip-hop to create a high-energy and dynamic style. Students will learn and practice a variety of jazz and fun dance techniques, including isolations, turn, jumps, and kicks. We will also incorporate upbeat music and fun choreography into each class, encouraging students to let loose and express themselves through dance. Whether your child is a seasoned dancer or brand new to the world of dance, our jazz/funk class is the perfect place to learn and grow in a fun and engaging way. So come join us on the dance floor and let’s grove together! Activity number 31097.

Sept. 2 -  Theatre: Imagination Exploration - Fall Session 1 (Ages 7-10)

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Saturdays, 9:15 to 10 a.m., 8 sessions, $142 per person, $156 nonresidents

NEW! In this fun new creative drama class students can let their imaginations run wild, engaging in activities such as creative writing, improvisation, and group storytelling. Our goal is to encourage students to see the world around them with fresh eyes, to think outside the box, and to embrace their own unique perspective. We believe that fostering creativity and imagination is key to developing critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a lifelong love of learning. So come join us for an unforgettable exploration of the power of imagination! Whether your child is a natural-born storyteller or simply loves to create, this class is the perfect place to develop their skills, make new friends, and have fun! Activity number 31097.