TAKE IT FROM THE TOP Interactive Workshops Series to Kick Off Summer 2014 at the Wharton Center

TAKE IT FROM THE TOP, a series of exciting, interactive workshops offered through MSU Federal Credit Union Institute for Arts & Creativity at Wharton Center, gives participants - from Pre-Teens to Young Adults and beyond - an opportunity to train with our brilliant team of top Broadway professionals, and meet top NYC casting director, Justin Huff.

TAKE IT FROM THE TOP was developed by Tony Award nominee and Legally Blonde star Laura Bell Bundy and Paul Canaan, currently starring in 2014's most Tony nominated Broadway show, Kinky Boots. "We started TAKE IT FROM THE TOP as a catalyst for creativity in life. We bring a team of world-class artists at the top of the performing arts field to Michigan and immerse students in a full week of training in music, drama and dance - and advance their skills, no matter how accomplished, or inexperienced, they are. This is a truly unique educational experience, and culminates in a FREE performance at the end of the week - and we're bringing in top NYC casting director, Justin Huff, to see the kids strut their stuff - what an incredible opportunity!"

Former instructors include Tony Award winner for Best Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical, Billy Porter, who plays Lola in 2014's most Tony nominated Broadway Show, Kinky Boots. "I remember when I was a kid growing up, trying to figure out how to live as a creative person. I had lots of influences and teachers and people who helped me. Without those people I wouldn't be where I am today. I'm so grateful when I get the opportunity to give back and share what I know with aspiring young artists."

2014 Instructors include: Canaan, along with Meredith Akins, Mamma Mia! and Wicked; Carlos Encinias, Mamma Mia! and Scandalous; Ellyn Marsh, Kinky Boots, Priscilla - Queen of the Desert; Kris Koop Ouellette, The Phantom of the Opera and CATS; Justin Huff, C. S. A. Casting Director, Newsies and Kinky Boots.

Participants learn the craft of musical theatre - including basic to advanced skills, industry history and practical content - in an exciting, fast-moving, interactive setting. TAKE IT FROM THE TOP offers participants a chance to experience Broadway with the pros. Sharpen your skills in an inspirational, creative, fun, and genuinely supportive environment. Make friendships that will last a lifetime. If you ever wanted to be on a Broadway stage, now is your chance to perform at the very highest level - taught by leaders in the performing arts field!

MUSIC / DANCE / THEATRE WORKSHOPS: East Lansing

PRE-TEEN: Ages 10-13

TEEN: Ages 14-18

ADVANCED: Ages 15-22

ADULT - PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: One night only! Any age!

Monday, July 28 - Friday, August 1, 2014

♦ PRE-TEEN - Monday-Thursday: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

♦ TEEN - Monday-Thursday: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

♦ PRE-TEEN and TEEN - Friday: Noon to 5:30 p.m. rehearsal

♦ Recital on Friday, August 1 at 7:00 p.m. (Open and FREE to the public!)

Monday, July 28 - Saturday, August 2, 2014

♦ ADVANCED - Monday-Friday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (lunch 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.)

♦ ADVANCED - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Tech 1:00 p.m.

♦ Recital on Saturday, August 2 (Open and FREE to the public!)

♦ Must audition to be considered. Call Kris Koop Ouellette to schedule: 517-884-3166

Wednesday, July 30, 2014 - ONE NIGHT ONLY

♦ ADULT Professional Development - 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

♦ Improv & Song Interpretation followed by a casual cabaret

All workshops are held at Wharton Center for Performing Arts. Space is limited. To register, log onto www.whartoncenter.com/takeitfromthetop, or call 1-800-WHARTON. Late registrations will be accepted based on class size.

Following workshops in East Lansing, the team will present a similar series of workshops at the Old Town Playhouse in Traverse City and at the Grand Rapids Ballet Company.