Do your children love to sing, show a flair for the dramatic and you don't know what to do with them? Brentwood Teen Theater, a Bay Area leader in theater training and productions, has the answer: a new class for that budding performer in your family.

When Acting Isn't Acting is a structured program that introduces young people to the world of theater arts in a nurturing environment, emphasizing the individual and introducing age-appropriate material with authentic technique for increased skill in acting and singing.

The course will be taught by Artistic Director Steve Kinsella, who made his stage debut at age 12 and has been performing in film, stage and voice-over for the last 40 years. The young performer is always susceptible to directors who don't understand how they take information in, says Kinsella, a father of four. I'm very aware of how to motivate actors of all ages without screams or threats.

Classes begin Jan. 10 and run for seven weeks. The cost is $68 plus $10 for materials. For more information, call 925-516-9009, or visit www.brentwoodteentheater.com.