PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Center offers performing arts classes for students of all skill levels, from pre-school through high school graduation, as well as dance classes for adults.
Classes in our Musical Theater Department allow students a chance to discover their individual talents and interests while exploring the basics of singing, dancing, and acting. Musical Theater classes focus on fundamental performing arts skills, emphasizing creative expression and fun.

The Center cannot be responsible for providing make-ups for missed classes when student illness or family obligations prevent attendance.
Classes in Voice, Dance, and Acting emphasize skill development and are intended for those students who wish to increase their mastery in these areas.

Junior Division classes are offered for beginning students ages 4—7 and higher level placement is available for those who progress in their studies.

Performance Classes require regular attendance and outside preparation.

Special Acting for students with special needs is funded by a grant from the Earl Knudsen Charitable Foundation, the William V. and Catherine A. McKinney Charitable Foundation and the FISA Foundation.

Outreach Classes are held in partnership with Chartiers Valley Middle School,
McKeesport Middle School, Propel Charter School, Auberle, Pathfinder School, and Mt. Lebanon Extended Day Program.

PRODUCTIONS & SPECIAL EVENTS

All casting information for Dance Company, performances, special events, Broadway Kids, and more, will be in the newsletter, on the website and posted on the callboard. Students are also invited to participate in special events held throughout the year. These have included: a resume photo day, commercial and professional workshops, Eat n Park Commercials, the Halloween Parade in Mt. Lebanon, “character” appearances at area fundraisers and more.

CENTER PRODUCTIONS

Center productions include the High School Musical, the All School Musical, Performance Workshop, Dance Company, Theater Company, Musical Theater Company, Comedy Improv, and Sketch Comedy. Students whose schedules do not permit regular attendance should not audition or register for productions.

Participation in these groups requires commitment to the company and an understanding that an individual’s involvement impacts the entire ensemble. Broadway Kids is a musical theatre performance troupe that performs at community, corporate, and educational events, other performance companies include: Theater Company, Dance Company, and Performance Workshop. The All School Musical which is performed in the spring is open to any Center student from third grade through eighth grade. No auditions are necessary to become a cast member, and all members have guaranteed participation.The Center’s High School Musical is open to all Center students eighth grade through twelfth grade, and like the All School Musical, does not require auditions to become a cast member.

Auditions for Broadway Kids are held in August. All information, as well as preliminary meeting date, will be in the Newsletter, fall brochure, and posted on Center bulletin boards, and email. Upon admittance to Broadway Kids, students are required to be registered in and regularly attend Ballet and Voice classes appropriate to their levels.

CASTING POLICY

It is the policy of the Center to provide performance opportunities that give all students a place to shine. To this end, we take an ensemble approach with major productions such as, the High School or All School Musical. Roles are multi-cast and parts re-written and re-distributed to provide more students an opportunity to participate.

All casting decisions are made by the director of a specific production or
performing company with the final approval of the Executive Director. These decisions incorporate many considerations. We strive to make the best possible choice for the project, the students, and the school. It is improper for anyparent or student to seek to overrule a director's casting choices. All decisionsof the director are final.

MUSICAL THEATER FOR STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

The Center offers free classes for students with special needs ages 5 and up. They are funded by the Earl Knudsen Charitable Foundation, the William V. and Catherine A. McKinney Charitable Foundation, and FISA Foundation.

Classes meet weekly and follow a musical theater format. Students are placed in age appropriate levels and work with a team of teachers, assisted by student aides. A year-end musical performance is held each spring that is open to family, friends, and the public.

All interested students and parents should contact our offices for more information about curriculum, registration, and placement.