CharacterWorks

CharacterWorks offers theater arts classes with drama, voice, dance, and specialty theater arts training. The program also offers Broadway-style shows and main stage productions for students enrolled in classes, and musical theater summer camps that include day camps, full musical productions, and overnight camps. Academy classes are year-long, application-only classes with a more focused curriculum and an extended full performance in the spring.

Programs

• Theater arts classes — Ages 4-18 in the program description; ages 6-18 for class registration on the classes page · Fall, winter, and spring sessions; 8 weeks; 1 hour 45 minutes per week · Wide variety of classes in drama, voice, dance, and specialty theater arts training; in the final week of each session, classes perform a 10-minute showcase for family and other classes.
• Broadway-style shows / main stage productions — Students ages 8-18 enrolled in classes are eligible to audition · Session-based productions · Family friendly productions offered to students enrolled in classes.
• Musical theater summer camps — Ages 6-18 · Summer camps · Variety of theater arts summer camps, including day camps, full musical productions, and overnight camps.
• Academy classes — Year-long application-only classes for students ready for the next level · Three sessions: fall, winter, spring · More focused curriculum and training; students conclude with an extended full performance at the CharacterWorks Academy Festival in the spring.
• ROOTS — High school students · High school discipleship and community service program.

At a glance

• Ages: 4–18 years old
• Current session: Winter 2026-2027 class session (Nov 30–Feb 4, 2027); Spring 2027 class session (Mar 8–May 6, 2027)
• General schedule: Fall, winter, and spring sessions for classes; summer camps in summer; Academy classes are year-long with fall, winter, and spring sessions.

About the provider

CharacterWorks says its mission is to honor Christ, build character, and create community through quality theater arts education and productions. The program has operated since 2001 and is celebrating 25 years. Its leadership team includes Brooke Abrahamsen, Jacob Filegar, Mike George, Joy Osborne, Becky McNamee, and Ashley Love. CharacterWorks notes that it has presented over 150 shows on stages across Richmond and also includes a high school discipleship and community service program.

• Rentals — Costumes, props, and set pieces can be rented.

Students ages 6-18 may register for a class in their age group. Students enrolled in classes ages 8-18 are eligible to audition for main stage shows. Academy classes are application-only and year-long. Scholarships are available for those in need. Office hours are by appointment.

What families say

“You all have a truly amazing organization that promotes good character and teamwork. This dedication shows through in the incredible productions that the kids perform...nothing even comes close to the experience she has had with CWorks. So, thank you to you and the staff for promoting character, teamwork, and the love of Christ through performing arts.” — Bonnie B., CWorks Parent

“Our girls have gained so much self confidence through CharacterWorks. They love taking classes, being a part of the big shows and watching them as well!” — Erin and Garrett Noegel

“I cannot express my gratitude for this experience enough. It has not only helped develop my knowledge of theater and my acting skills, but it has also helped me develop as a person.” — CWorks Alumni

Last updated October 26, 2026.