Fort Wayne’s TekVenture Makerspace is launching a new theatre workshop called Playing With Plays this January. The free sessions invite people of all ages to explore acting skills through fun scripts and hands on activities at their local site.
Workshop Details and Activities
The workshop runs every Saturday in January from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Participants get to dive into over 40 original scripts written by director Jeannette Jaquish. These scripts cover a mix of comedy, drama, and adventure themes to spark creativity.
Beyond acting, the sessions blend in makerspace elements like basic woodworking and sewing. This unique twist lets attendees build props or costumes while learning theatre basics. Organizers say it helps build confidence and teamwork in a relaxed setting.
No prior experience is needed, making it ideal for beginners or families looking for weekend fun.
Schedule and How to Join
Sessions take place at TekVenture’s location on 1830 Wayne Trace in Fort Wayne. The dates line up with the first month of 2026, starting right after the holidays.
Here is the full schedule for January:
| Date | Time | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| January 4 | 2-3:30 p.m. | Intro to Scripts |
| January 11 | 2-3:30 p.m. | Role Playing Basics |
| January 18 | 2-3:30 p.m. | Prop Building with Wood |
| January 25 | 2-3:30 p.m. | Costume Sewing Fun |
Admission is free, but donations support the makerspace programs. Just show up or check their website for updates.
Parents can sign waivers for kids, and non participants can relax nearby or explore with a membership.
This timing ties into the growing interest in community arts after recent local events like holiday plays in Fort Wayne.
Who Should Attend and Inclusivity
Anyone from kids to seniors can join, as the workshop welcomes all skill levels and abilities. It aims to make theatre accessible, especially for those new to performing.
Organizers highlight how it encourages diverse groups to collaborate. For example, families often participate together, turning it into a bonding activity.
Recent trends show more people seeking creative outlets post pandemic, with similar workshops popping up in nearby cities like Indianapolis.
No special gear is required, just enthusiasm. This approach has drawn praise for promoting mental health through expressive arts.
Feedback from past events notes improved social skills and fun memories for attendees.
Benefits of Theatre and Making Combined
Mixing theatre with hands on making offers real world skills. Participants learn to improvise on stage while crafting items, boosting problem solving abilities.
Studies from arts organizations show such activities enhance cognitive development, especially in youth. In Fort Wayne, this fits into broader efforts to support local innovation hubs.
Attendees often leave with new friends and ideas for personal projects. It also exposes people to TekVenture’s other offerings, like blacksmithing or pottery classes.
With rising interest in STEM and arts fusion, this workshop stands out as a timely option for community growth.
About TekVenture Makerspace
TekVenture is Indiana’s oldest and largest makerspace, founded years ago to foster creativity in Fort Wayne. It provides affordable access to tools and workshops in areas like metalworking and sewing.
The space has grown popular for its community events, drawing thousands annually. Recent expansions include more family friendly programs amid the city’s push for cultural development.
Located in a vibrant area, it serves as a hub for inventors and artists alike.
Community Impact and Future Plans
This workshop reflects Fort Wayne’s thriving arts scene, which saw a boost from events like the 2025 holiday festivals. Local leaders praise such initiatives for building stronger neighborhoods.
Looking ahead, TekVenture plans to expand similar programs into February, based on January turnout.
Experts note that free access like this helps bridge gaps in education and recreation, especially in mid sized cities.
If you enjoy stories like this, share your thoughts in the comments or pass it along to friends who might want to join. Your input could inspire more community events.
