Registration Now Open for Wharton Center's TAKE IT FROM THE TOP

TAKE IT FROM THE TOP is a series of exciting, interactive workshops offered through MSU Federal Credit Union Institute for Arts & Creativity at Wharton Center. Participants - from pre-teens to young adults and beyond - receive a unique opportunity to train with a brilliant team of leading Broadway professionals. Former instructors include such talented Broadway performers as 2014 Tony Award® winner for Best Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical, Billy Porter, who played Lola in Broadway's Kinky Boots, and Shoshana Bean, who played Elphaba in Wicked.

TAKE IT FROM THE TOP was developed by Tony Award® nominee and Legally Blonde star, Laura Bell Bundy, and Paul Canaan, a dance captain in 2014's most Tony® nominated show, Kinky Boots. Canaan says, "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! Each student will be given the opportunity to video an audition for a top New York casting agent who will offer feedback. It's an incredible opportunity!"

Porter says "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."

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 and sharpen skills in an inspirational, creative, fun and genuinely supportive environment. Participants will make friendships that will last a lifetime!

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