On Developing Your Stage Versatility and Persona
To thine own self be true! As you continue to succeed in acting, it is…
Welcome to LATTE Theater!
LATTE Theater develops college to professional-level theatricality, collaborative leadership, socio-emotional growth and empowerment, creativity, and critical thinking skills for life. We encourage well-rounded, active community participation – all while having a blast making memories.
The LATTE Theater Acting Program stems from the conviction that Teen Actors can be trained with similar rigor and discipline as adults. As teens establish internal stage discipline (while having fun), they also are taught emotional wellness tools to allow them a healthy self-awareness as they are developing their stage characters to protect the psyche.
This acting training technique is specifically designed for young people’s personal triumph on and off the stage. The Pfluger Empathy Movement Method focuses on spherical growth in all aspects of character building, physicality and stage interrelationships , commanding voice and speech intonations, muscle activation, micro-expressions, and improvisation all while developing personal stamina and directing skills. Curiosity and questions are encouraged for collaborative growth. Teens are included in the dramaturgy process and given a voice from the start of the acting intensive to the final curtain call.
Coaching for healthy stage intimacy and interrelationship creates a wholistic stagecraft approach where teens are not only acquainted with the core elements of acting training actively mentored in cultural, historical, literary, and psychological interrelationships that allow each teen to gain healthy insight as an actor or actress – for through stage we celebrate our humanity, challenge each other, find comfort… and create healthy opportunities to learn!
For more information on our Teen Acting Program, Acting Workshops, Summer Teen Camp, Acting School, LATTE Theater Performances, and Acting Intensives, please contact us at 708-655-0989 or email lattetheater@gmail.com
LATTE, NFP. the La Grange Area Teen Theater Ensemble, is a dynamic theatrical company for teens 12 – 19. Since 2009, we serve teens from the near west suburbs of Chicagoland, (La Grange, La Grange Park, Brookfield, Western Springs, Hinsdale, Westmont, Lyons, Riverside, Clarendon Hills, Westchester, Oak Brook) and we have had terrific teens that commute in from the TriState Region, Chicago, Libertyville, and Crystal Lake. This is a commitment. A chance to grow. A chance to thrive!
Founded by Felicia Pfluger
Scenes and What They’re Saying about And Then There Were None…
At one moment I was watching clever spoof. And then it transported into pure chills and thrills. I was on the edge of my seat.
Outstanding ensemble. LATTE does it again!
This is what live theater is supposed to be.
Exceptionally done! What a great Who Done it!
Stellar cast. 5 STARS! No one will want to miss this!
LOVED the twist ending. Didn’t see it coming!
You get sympathy for the devil … But which one? Agatha Christie would be proud!
Amazing show! Always something going on on stage. It’s like candy.
Amazing! I was kept guessing till the last minute!
I don’t understand how teens act this well! Shockingly fun and chilling.
A true ensemble show! I thought my friends were exaggerating… But it was even better!
The cast acted as one. You don’t know which character to hate or love on most at any given second. And you love it.
LATTE’s Latest
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So, You Want to be an Actor?
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Character Building Exercises
We have one set of experiences to draw from on stage… and that is our…
Developing Charisma on Stage – Acting with Intent
You finally get to a Broadway show… and there is one actor who the audience…
WHAT MAKES LATTE CHICAGO’S TEEN ACTING CHOICE
The LATTE Theater Acting Program stems from the conviction that Teen Actors can be trained…
HOW TO TEACH TEENS STAGE PRESENCE?
When you are on stage, it is easy for any beginning actor to fall into…
Why Should Teens do Full-Length Plays in a Challenging Environment?
It’s all about stretching. It’s more than building your stage resume, and beyond forging friendships,…
HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT ACTING PROGRAM FOR YOUR TEEN?
Ask yourself, what you want out of the program. And what does your teen want…
Choosing an Acting Program with your Teen – The Developing Brain and Stage
Acting in the teen years can be an incredible experience. Otherwise, I never would have…
Emotional Wellness and the Stage
Teens have very full lives with competing responsibilities. Positive emotional framing encouraging resiliency goes a…
Celebrating 15 Years – Not “Just” an Incredible Acting Troupe
Celebration time! Join us in Celebrating LATTE’s 15th Anniversary!
The Java Jive: Depicting Trauma on Stage
It happens. You get an incredible role – with trauma in it. Thankfully, you haven’t…
The Java Jive: Fatal Flaws and Fantastic Strengths.
As you develop your character, think of them in terms of their strengths and weaknesses….
The Java Jive: What’s in a Script, Anyway?
Congratulations! You got the part! Now what? THE SCRIPT! Think of it as the best…
What others are saying about LATTE Theater
LATTE Theater means a lot of different things to me. Throughout my years of involvement, I’ve had many different roles. I’ve been an actor, director, playwright, and stage manager. I’ve been a student and a teacher. All of these things have given me insight and taught me individual life lessons. It has been and continues to be an unforgettable experience.
What does LATTE mean to me? Well it’s hard to sort it into one category or one word. LATTE means everything to me. It’s a community full of love and support. It’s helped shape me into the person I am today, how I see and understand things. How I care for and love people. It’s an environment full of positive energy that allows your inner child to come out along with glowing aspects of yourself you may not have realized were there. LATTE has definitely helped me grow acting wise, I have definitely prospered and progressed from the shy 5th grade Angie that came into LATTE all those years ago. I have a deeper understanding of acting and it’s depth and beauty, and how it’s much more complex then what meets the eye. It’s not just the show process that makes this progress possible, but the people…the teaching along with it is teacher. Having good people surrounding you when your trying to get up and not stay down is crucial to progress and improvement. Latte has that and more, everybody pushes everybody to work hard and prosper. That’s what’s important here.
Felicia has always been kind, respectful and caring to the children and adults that engage in the awesome realm of theater through LATTE, from the start all are aware of the responsibility that goes into the producing of great theater. The joy and at times the hardship of following the actors code. With great power comes great responsibility. I have seen every show that LATTE has performed and each time I have been amazed at the children’s grasp of the characters they portrayed and with the skill set they have embraced through the direction of Mrs. Pfluger. Come see stagecraft at it’s finest.
Some amazing memories and times of LATTE Theatre include all the fun of learning. At LATTE, I received an opportunity to be a volunteer. I write director notes, set up props, assist with line memorization and help with costume decisions. My thoughts of LATTE Theatre will never be forgotten. As Mrs. Pfluger says, “The fun starts now!”
Above all else Theater means family. From all this I’ve gained experience in advertising, graphics and acting the segued into life skills of public speaking, time management, and most of all not to be, or to be less nervous in front of crowds. It has boosted my confidence, my comfort and my “extended theater family.”
LATTE is a unique group that allows each student to grow, experience and share talent. I am a presenter of yoga in the audition process, and see quite a transformation of the students on stage. Each play I have seen is creative and also adaptable to our modern world. A must see!
LATTE Shows are AMAZING and so are the talented young people who perform in them. I have had the joy of talking to many of these performers after their performances. and I can see what a difference this opportunity has made in their lives. The director goes way above and beyond in guiding them to fulfill their potential. For the audience, these shows are pure magic; as they are a ticket to another world for a delightful, thought-provoking evening that never leaves you unmoved or unchanged.
If you are looking for a great group of kids, improving your acting skills and having fun along the way… LATTE theater is for you! Mrs. Pfluger is so kind and so welcoming as she helps students understand what acting entails and invites kids to grow as young people/actors and develop lifelong skills. The theater builds confidence, acceptance and great friendships. My kids have enjoyed being part of this theatrical group and grown thru acting lessons as well. They have learned to use body and facial expressions to convey feelings and mood. It’s taught them to read people and situations around them as well as understand the base of emotions. Mrs. Pfluger treats her students with love, kindness, compassion and much respect. She creates a safe place to grow. Definitely come check them out come show time and be ready to be amazed at what these kids can do for their age.
Director, Felicia Pfluger, has a heart for teenagers and a love of the arts that is both contagious and encouraging. A wonderful opportunity for teens and tweens. You should really check out this theater group.
Wow. Where do I begin? This is something that I am truly so thankful for and proud of. Mrs. Pfluger and the rest of the LATTE crew are some of the most genuinely amazing and wonderful people I know. I am so thankful for LATTE and everything they have done for me. I’ve not only grown as an actress, but I’ve grown as a person too.
“LATTE means a ton to me! There’s a whole lot I’m learning about theater within this group, there’s plenty of opportunities for me to experiment, and it gives me more faith about how my future will turn out. Wish I discovered LATTE sooner, but better late than never!”
LATTE is a great positive environment. My son has learned so much in such a short time. The kids are given confidence and support and it shows on stage. Felicia is really great about seeing everyone’s strengths and showcasing them in a great show! Can’t wait to see this most recent production!
“LATTE Theater is magic. Pure and simple. It pulls at the heartstrings of audience members and the actors who create the magic.”The first time I came to LATTE was in my Junior year of high school. I had been looking for a theatre group that could teach me to grow as a actor and be a good community. When I walked in I was immediately welcomed with open arms by the head of it all Felicia Pfluger. And to my surprise ended getting a lead role for the first time. Since that day, I have continued to grow as a actor, as a student, and as a friend.”
Through my life, I can look to what groups made me what I am. LATTE offered the strongest friendships I know to this day. It taught me about community and the importance of contributing to a community you love. It taught me the understanding of how as a team and as an individual to build things from nothing with detemination and … succeed. Even my ability to succeed academically flourished as I explored new ways learn. Once involved in theater, its in your blood, and the after-effects can only be described as life-changing. I always come back to support the current LATTE company and applaud from the audience.
The environment of LATTE is truly special. Mrs Pfluger shares the journey of putting together a theater production from start to finish with the kids and inspires efforts from them that you wouldn’t think teens were capable of. Under her direction, the kids have a goal, safe space, and support to forge trust in themselves, each other, and their team as they explore, share, and create amazing performances.
I have known Felicia Pfluger and LATTE theater for over 10 years now and continue to be impressed by not only the professional level of theater produced by the group, but the positive affect this group has on the teens involved and, in fact, everyone who interacts with them. She has written shows for and with the teens, and never wastes an opportunity to make lasting change. These teens thrive.
What can be said about LATTE? LATTE holds the key to so much. It paves a way for new friendships, and experiences. Before I joined LATTE I thought I wouldn’t do acting because I didn’t know where to. After hearing about LATTE and decided to not only join but become a part of the family, it exceeded my expectations. I went to the first workshop thinking “How will I ever get a good part?” I was thinking only of competition and its negatives. LATTE is the opposite of competition and negativity, its fairness and support for one another. LATTE has given me the knowledge that I can do anything I strive to do. It has pushed my comfort zone and is allowing me to have great fun all at once!
Being a part of LATTE has been an amazing experience for my daughter. She has grown immensely with her confidence and self-esteem. It is a lot of hard work, but well worth it. These kids bond together to help each other stay focused, and learn their lines. It’s amazing to watch them blossom in their characters. Felicia Pfluger, the director, has such a nurturing spirit and exhibits so much patience while teaching these kids. She allows them to have a voice in the production of the play. This has been an unforgettable experience for my daughter. Thank you, LATTE!
LATTE Theater is truly my favorite theater group I have ever joined in all of my years of performing. I was very nervous coming in and unsure how others would perceive me since I was very shy. However, as soon as I got to know everyone involved in LATTE, they were so nice and now all of them are my best friends.
LATTE is truly a special place, a place filled with kind people and welcoming smiles. When I first started acting with LATTE, I was blown away by how inviting this group was and how talented. I had wanted to expand my acting skills, although along the way I met some of my closest friends. Learned new skills, and made memories I will remember forever.
LATTE has been a very rewarding experience for me. I have learned so much from being on stage, as well as off stage. I have learned how to really create a character, as well as direct others.In LATTE, you learn how to develop different characters through physicality, tone, reactions, etc, which makes it different than other companies. There is so much kindness and patience in LATTE as well, which makes it such a fun environment to be in.
My son has gained so much from LATTE Theatre. He’s learned to act, conflict resolve, teamwork, and hard work pay off. LATTE is a blessing to us.
A truly wonderful organization with adults taking care and guiding exceptionally talented young people. I am proud and flattered to have played a very small role in helping. Go see a show, folks!
I have been fortunate enough to experience the benefits if LATTE first hand… not only is the goal to produce a college quality play, but to teach leadership, teamwork, and the ability to raise their peers to their highest potential, as well as improving their own self esteem.
As a founding member of this group- LATTE – I can assure all that there was every reason in the world to join this troupe. I meet friends that I have known and loved for years. I expand my ability as an actor and a playwright. And I put on great shows of humorous and serious quality. I had every reason in the world to join, and now I have every reason in the world to remain.
LATTE teaches young adults real-life skills- communication, empathy, the importance of practice makes perfect, & following through on commitment – just to name a few. I never knew theater could have such a positive impact until I saw it 1st hand. Mrs. Pfluger does a phenomenal job gently guiding, nurturing, & caring along the way as if these were her own children. I’m blown away at her gift of patience & ability to coach this diverse group of kids ranging from 4th grade – juniors in high school. They all genuinely interact both on & off the stage & no one is excluded. How she does it while earning all of the kids’ confidence & respect is beyond A-MAZ-ING.
When my daughter first joined LATTE at 12 years old in Little Women, we could not have anticipated her growth. When we attended the workshop, she was very shy and did not know anyone. I thought she would refuse to continue. But she has and her confidence and poise have grown tremendously, spilling over into her school work. The dreaded oral report does not fill her with anxiety anymore. I credit Felicia Pfluger and her troop of teen actors who are ALWAYS supportive and encouraging. Felicia is incredibly patent, positive, and a superb teacher, director, and mentor. I don’t know how she juggles the hundreds of production details and the needs of a dozen teens actors (on and off the stage) who are various ages and levels of experience. I’ve got to take my hat off to her – She’s a special lady.
It was hard to become part of LATTE after my last theater group fell apart, but it was the right decision to try. There was not one person who did not welcome me with open arms. I was so amazed at how many outings people did together, and how many plans we were making inside and outside of theater. I know I have made some life-long friends here, not only with the teens but with the adults as well. Now I can’t even imagine not knowing :them! Everyone was so accommodating and allowed me to take on various leadership roles I love. Acting has always been such a passion for me. It’s wonderful when I find people who share some of that love.
Most outstanding teen theater program in the western suburbs. My daughter has gained self-confidence, acting skills, and great experience. The director is supportive, encouraging, enthusiastic, and fun-loving. The quality of the productions is top-notch.
In LATTE, the friendships that I made here at LATTE, all of which are founded on principles of teamwork, coordination, managing, and simple fun, are built to last.
I have to tell you folks that I’ve known Felicia Pfluger for about 15 years. My own involvement in the business is as an actor approaching 50 years. There are not many people I’ve met with her kind of encompassing, loving commitment to the arts… and she does this with children. I admire the whole of LATTE Theatre, and I will continue to wholeheartedly support the work of Ms. Pfluger as it continues to grow and mature. She’s one of the good ones, my friends.
I am very excited that my son has become part of LATTE. As a parent, I know my son is in great hands with Mrs. Pfluger. I am overcome with pride and joy every time I hear my son talk about how practice went. We look forward to every performance.
This is an incredible place for teens to learn about theatre and grow, emotionally and socially. The primary director and teacher is one of the nicest, kindest, most encouraging person you will ever meet. She’s like a second mother to so many of the youth that participates in these classes and plays. The quality of education and the high expectations on teamwork and positive reinforcement and personal accountability will be a great asset to your child’s growth.
I grew up attending shows at LATTE theatre, and when I was finally old enough to be in them I was thrilled! Now I’m an Acting and Theatre Teacher Education Double Major at ISU, using everything I learned from my start LATTE 6 years ago! LATTE gives teens the opportunity to grow in multiple aspects of theater and in a professional setting. IN my LATTE shows, I have learned so much about acting a variety of characters, what goes into directing, and I have gotten to know some of my closest friends. It is an extraordinary experience overall. I think I have not only become a more seasoned actress, but a more confident individual. Everyone who has been part of the show has been so kind and supportive. I really appreciate them all!
I have nothing but good things to say about LATTE! The productions are first rate. As a LATTE volunteer, I’ve seen the work both the director and the cast have done and done very well. I was surprised that teenagers were so cooperative and it was obvious how highly they think of Mrs. Pfluger, who has boundless energy. I liked working with teenagers who listened. It was a wonderful experience for me.
LATTE productions are PROFESIONALLY PRODUCED, from the scenery to the stage lights to the talented performers. The director, Miss Felicia, acts as a mentor and counselor for each student. Seeing the kids blossom from one show to the next has been a JOY!
LATTE shows are INCREDIBLE! I make it a point to see every one I can.The talent of these kids is astounding. You forget that they aren’t adults from the moment the curtains open. These are NOT easy shows… and the casting is always spot on. Looking forward to the next one!
I’ve grown in every way since I’ve joined LATTE, and it’s impossible for me to pick a specific area that’s brought me more pride than any other. I’ve been in LATTE for years now, and it’s always been a great experience. I’ve learned many skills, not just in the acting world, but for life in general
Participating in LATTE Theater has been a great experience for my child. Aiden has grown in confidence since joining, and it is wonderful to see the bonds growing between all the actors in the group. I enjoy volunteering as a parent and getting to see behind the scenes and watching the kids progress. It’s neat that the kids get to help direct and shape the final product by making decisions about their characters and how they interact during the performance. Ms. Pfluger does a great job identifying each actor’s strengths and helping them grow as actors and people.
I first saw The Diary of Anne Frank with LATTE and was blown away! I was immediately drawn into Anne’s world and mesmerized by the show. After the show was over, the director, Felicia Pfluger, did an exercise where she encouraged everyone to, “take off,” the character. I cannot say enough good things about this program! Felicia has a true talent to teach, train and educate her participants. She will adjust a script to meet the needs of a current cast, deep-dive into time period to understand context, invite professional friends to present workshops and more! This program is amazing and I give it 5 stars! Wish I had this while I was growing up.
LATTE was exactly what our teen needed during Covid and all the closures. They met virtually multiple times a times a week (meets vary depending on what programs you sign up for) and were able to build friendships. It helped build confidence and self-expression in a healthy way. Mrs. Pfluger has a heart of gold and genuinely cares for the group and their families. If you are looking for a theater group to enroll your child in, I highly recommend LATTE.
What Makes LATTE So Special?
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