EAST LANSING, MI – 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, 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, assistant dance captain of 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 517-884-3170. The deadline for registration is Thursday, July 20, 2017. Late registrations will be accepted based on class size.
Tuition (Based on workshop chosen below):
$425.00
Six-Day Junior Advanced/Advanced Musical Theatre Intensive - audition required; video auditions accepted
Monday, July 24 – Saturday, July 29, 2017
Junior Advanced (Ages 7-15); focusing on All Shook Up
Advanced (Ages 16-25); focusing on Urinetown
$350.00
Five-Day Musical Theatre Intensive
Monday, July 24 – Friday, July 28, 2017
Pre-Teen (ages 10-13)
Teens (ages 14-19)
$300.00
Creative Kids - brand new program for students ages 7-9 - with age-appropriate material and a shorter day!
Monday, July 24 – Friday, July 28, 2017
$30.00
Adult Class, ages 21+
Improv and song interpretation, theatre games, cabaret
Wednesday, July 26, 2017 *ONE NIGHT ONLY!
For more information, contact Todd Tuchek at Wharton Center: 517-884-3170 or todd.tuchek@whartoncenter.com.
Register online at whartoncenter.com/takeitfromthetop.
SOURCE: PRESS RELEASE
