Throughout the month of July, Musical Theatre West (MTW) will provide arts enrichment programs for children of all ages through two summer youth conservatory programs, offering aspiring student performers age 8 to 18 the opportunity to work with theatre professionals in developing their musical theatre skills.
Musical Theatre 101, an introductory program teaching students the basics of musical theatre and auction prep, will take place July 6—10. The morning session from 9am to noon for students grades 2nd through 7th is full, however limited space is available for the 1pm to 4pm program for students grades 8th through 12th. The cost for the one-week camp is $150.
Discovering Theatre is for students with a background in theatre and students who enjoyed Musical Theatre 101. The program is designed to develop and hone skills necessary for future careers in professional musical theatre. Students will work with professionals in the areas of acting, voice and dance to expand their knowledge of the world of musical theatre and create the initial foundation for a strong audition package. By the completion of the conservatory, students will be equipped with a fully rehearsed audition song and a wider understanding of how to navigate through the professional field of musical theatre, according to MTW.
New this summer, students will have the opportunity to help write a show, to be performed for parents and friends. The program runs two weeks, from July 13 to July 24. On July 23 at 7pm, students will perform the show. Limited space is available for this class for students grades 2nd through 7th, and space is still available for students grades 8th through 12th. The cost for the two-week program is $275.
Students wishing to participate in all three weeks of training will receive a $75 discount.
Brandon Nease, MTW’s new education/outreach coordinator oversees the program, working with Musical Theatre West’s executive director and producer Paul Garman.
“We are delighted to offer programs for those interested in exploring musical theatre and those who desire to enhance their skills,” Nease said. “Both programs will be broken into different age groups, allowing students to work at their developmental level.”
Nease, a graduate from Chapman University with a double major in theatre and integrated educational studies, has worked as a choreographer and director at local community theatres, middle and high schools, and the Boys and Girls Club. In addition to teaching summer-camp programs in dance, vocal and acting training, he most recently served as the Center Theatre Group Education and Community Outreach intern.Garman adds, “Our goal is for the students to have fun, while learning and developing their abilities as performers. Enthusiasm and passion for theatre is as important as experience.”
Both summer youth conservatory programs will be held at the Musical Theatre West offices, 4350 E 7th St.
For more information or to register, contact Brandon Nease at Brandon@musical.org or call (562) 856-1999 ex. 232.
Source: MTW
