The Franklin School for the Performing Arts Expands Musical Theatre Program

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) introduces new performing opportunities across all musical theater programs this school year. These include performances each trimester for all of the musical theater classes. A Holiday Tribute will be presented in December, School Rocks! in March and Spring Concert in May. FSPA also proudly presents an all-student production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat on February 8, with many featured and ensemble roles in the smash-hit, family-friendly musical. Participation in performances is optional, but encouraged as a fun way to apply skills learned in the classroom, grow creatively and gain increased confidence onstage.

With extensive programs in music, dance and drama all housed under one roof, FSPA is well position to offer a hands-on, interdisciplinary musical theater experience. The curriculum enables students to choose their level of involvement and many options are available for once-a-week recreational enjoyment. Children's Musical Theater introduces students in kindergarten and first grade to basic skills in acting, singing and dancing. Musical theater classes (levels I-IV) teach progressively more challenging musical theater technique and styles, involving more advanced song repertoire and scene work and incorporating history and lessons from legends of the Broadway stage.

Musical theater students may also design programs tailored to their own special talents and interests, drawing from FSPA's wide-ranging classes in all three performing arts disciplines. The School's Pro Voice program offers voice classes and private lessons focusing on the development of healthy technique, musicality and stylistic skills. The Dance Department offers multi-level classes in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Horton and Dance for Musical Theater, as well as specialized classes for young children, boys, adults and beginner teens. FSPA's acting program provides classes in scene study, character development, improvisation, performance skills and audition technique.

Ongoing performing opportunities are a hallmark of FSPA's musical theater experience and an important part of students' development. Students in grades 5 and up may audition for musical theater troupes, with performances in FSPA showcases, the community and at Walt Disney World, as part of an annual weeklong trip for select ensembles. Students in performing troupes also have the opportunity to participate in an annual weekend of master classes and workshops with Broadway performers, choreographers and directors through FSPA's affiliation with Broadway Artists Alliance (BAA) of New York City.

An unparalleled calendar of performing opportunities at FSPA also features studio voice recitals, opera scenes, acoustic coffee houses, Glee Club, Obstreperous Rep theatrical ensemble, SummerStage, dance companies, Project Dance, Ballet Conservatory Repertoire Series and instrumental ensembles. Many FSPA students are also cast in Franklin Performing Arts Company's annual season of shows.

Since 1985, FSPA has been dedicated to the enjoyment of the arts for all ages and to the artistic growth and development of young people. Founded by Director Raye Lynn Mercer and built upon the notion that arts experiences are an integral part of a well-rounded education, FSPA provides a nurturing environment where students grow skills for the stage - and for life. Children develop a sense of independence and accomplishment at an early age, while gaining confidence, poise and self-esteem. Students expand their creativity, imagination and improvisatory skills and enhance their ability to communicate effectively, whether in the secondary school classroom or other public speaking opportunities.

Registration for all programs is ongoing, with tuition prorated. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the school to meet faculty, tour the facility and try a complimentary class. For more information or to request a course catalogue, call (508) 528-8668. Visit online at www.fspaonline.com.

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