Want to learn how to act?

Anyone who has ever acted or even considered stepping on stage knows the apprehension of performing in front of a crowd. Niles Wilson, a 17-year-old recent Malverne High School graduate, wants to help his peers enjoy the theatrical experience and learn to embrace the stage.

Wilson is holding a four-part series of acting workshops at the Lakeview Public Library this summer designed for teens and young adults who want to continue acting or experience the first-time thrill of performing.

Wilson caught the acting-bug in 6^th grade when he first stepped foot on a stage as Lord Farquaad’s dad, Grumpy, in his school’s performance of “Shrek”. Now, Wilson is hoping to instill his love of acting in others.

“When I thought of theater back when I was younger, I didn’t think it was something I could do,” Wilson said. “I got a small little part, went on stage and said a few lines … and it was magical. Being on stage in costume with the lights and audience is a feeling I can’t really describe. It’s so fun and so rewarding.”

With the help of Malverne teacher and Community Theatre President David Coonan, Wilson organized his acting workshop at the Lakeview Public Library to help the library’s outreach in the community, and pass along his rewarding experiences.

Coonan said when Wilson’s final scholastic performance was over, Wilson asked him how he could inspire younger kids the way he was inspired.

“I thought that was the coolest thing in the world that he would want to take this thing he loves so much, and instead of selfishly jumping back on stage, want to pass it along to other people,” Coonan said.

Wilson’s workshops take place Thursdays starting July 20 from 6-7 p.m. After the final workshop on Aug. 10, a small performance for family and friends will culminate and celebrate the program.

Wilson said the Lakeview Public Library was a natural fit since his grew up in the community and received amazing help from the library staff.

“They are keen about bringing the community together and educating the community while still having fun, and those two principles drove this,” Wilson said. “They have been amazing to work with. They are really excited for this project as well.”

Wilson will pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation, Interactive Media, and Game Design as the Fashion Institute of Technology in the fall. While he won’t be studying theater, he continues to help others explore their passion for acting or even expose someone to a new world on stage.

“My main goal is to educate,” Wilson said. “My vision is a combination of getting acting skills and maybe helping some people who are too shy. I want to give people the experience of putting a show together and accomplishing something.”

To register for the free workshops, or for more information, visit MalverneTheatre.org.