FSPA Graduates 23 Students in Class of 2011

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) graduated sixteen members of its Class of 2011 during recent ceremonies on May 24th at the Dean College Campus Center. Celebrating the talents, accomplishments and camaraderie of the seniors, the audience of family, friends and faculty enjoyed performances by the graduates showcasing their talents developed at FSPA.

After processing into the auditorium wearing FSPA caps, the graduates listened to opening remarks from FSPA Director Raye Lynn Mercer. Recognizing the seventh annual graduation ceremony, Mercer urged the students to remain committed to the performing arts in the future. Each graduate then took to the stage and performed dance excerpts and songs from Broadway shows ranging from Kiss Me Kate to American Idiot.

The graduates continued an FSPA tradition of each selecting an inspirational quote from a black top hat, read to humorous effect by Drama Instructor Nick Paone. These words of wisdom came from sources as diverse as Thomas Jefferson and Oprah Winfrey.

Following the awarding of diplomas, Mercer again addressed the graduates. "Thank you for everything you've given to our school....I hope you come back to visit!"

The FSPA Class of 2011 includes Kasey Bressler, Meghan Dean, Galen Hancock, Avery McStay, Kerryn Reeve and Catherine Weiss of Franklin; Danielle Hall of Hopkinton; Lindsey White of Mansfield; Cassie Desjourdy of Medfield; Mia Marchese and Emily Peduto of Medway; Katie Ryan of Milville; Emily Burke of Norfolk; Jef Mettler of Westborough; and Corinne Falotico and Callie Liljeberg of Wrentham.

2011 graduates unable to attend the ceremony were Pat Dutton, Emily McCaffrey, and Jessica Mow of Franklin; Chris Morris of Mendon; Stephanie Roberts of Millis; Cleo Merrill of North Grafton; and Shannon Radford of Wrentham.

FSPA graduates will attend such colleges as Cornell University, Boston College, New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, Pennsylvania State University, Connecticut College, George Washington University, Boston University, Franklin & Marshall College, Skidmore College, Ithaca College, Berklee College of Music, Sacred Heart University, and the University of Rhode Island, among others.

Founded in 1985, FSPA brings all performing arts disciplines together under one roof, offering Music, Dance and Drama training to both students interested in serious study and those who enjoy the arts for recreation. Beginners are welcome in all programs. FSPA is currently enrolling for both its 2011 Summer and Fall sessions. For more information, call (508) 528-8668 or visit www.fspaonline.com

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