Over the last several years I've followed the threads on C.C. Musical Theater pages. During that time I did a lot of research for my daughter in order to find for her a summer program that would be a challenging experience where she would be gaining concrete skills in her chosen field. Needless to say, my daughter is now a senior and will spend this upcoming summer working and saving for whatever college MT program she gets accepted to (keep your fingers crossed!)
But in our years researching and attending summer programs (and so many are incredibly expensive – you really want to do your homework) there is one that stands out. It is the Musical Theater Lab at the Vineyard Arts Project run by Elizabeth Parkinson and Scott Wise.
My daughter first attended the week she turned 15. She was overwhelmed by the support, encouragement and instruction. They only accept 26 auditioned students – this is not a big program – and they really get to know your child. This program is an intensive. The kids are working from morning until night with Broadway professionals. They attend vocal technique classes with Joan Lader and Andrea Green. Dance classes taught by a variety of teachers such as Donald Byrd, Andrew Palermo, Lara Teeter and Scott or Elizabeth. Notable Broadway guest artists come and share their expertise. And it honestly becomes like a family.
My daughter has attended for the last three summers. The first and second year we received generous financial aid. The third year, my job changed and our finances changed and we sent her anyway because in her opinion this program has been the greatest experience of her childhood. It allowed her to get to know and see up close a professional couple making a very successful life in the theater. People she idolizes became real to her, and it made her feel that if she works incredibly hard and stays dedicated it is possible to make a life in this world. The teacher's continue to be a part of her life. They send her facebook messages throughout the year when she is in a show or needs advice. This wasn't just a summer program – it is a full on support system. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a competitive MT summer experience.
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