Actor James Yi from Kim’s Convenience, a theatre production of Ins Choi’s story, will launch a series of acting workshops at a Richmond-based organization for the first time.
Yi has earned an award nomination for his work as store owner Appa in the theatre production and he also has a recurring role on the hit TV show.
Students aged seven to 19 interested in acting and improving their communication skills can join the acting workshop with Yi, explained Elizabeth Chau, principal and artistic director of Childlike Faith Academy (CFA), a local faith-based organization specializing in theatre arts.
“We are lucky to get Yi to teach at CFA because his experience benefits the whole community,” said Chau. “At the same time, having an acting workshop right now is perfect timing as everything has moved online since last year, which gives us more chances to present ourselves in front of the camera.”
CFA used to provide in-person theatre training and activities for children, but as the COVID-19 has shifted all classes online, kids have had to learn how to present themselves in front of a camera, explained Chau. Many children are excited to have classes with a TV star.
The workshop, which starts on Jan. 23 and lasts for three hours every other week, will teach children how to use all five senses, better utilize their creativity and imagination and includes on-camera scene study.
Chau told the Richmond News she met Yi at a church and discovered his passion about educating the next generation on acting.
However, it’s been challenging for Chau to bring Yi into the program since he isn’t just busy as a professional actor but he is also an associate pastor at a church in Surrey.
“His whole family is so talented. Yi’s wife has written music for kids and helped the church put on musical performances. And his daughter taught children how to dance while Yi was directing. They are really into raising the next generation,” said Chau.
For more information about the workshops and the cost, visit: http://www.childlikefaithacademy.com/training.
