Center Stage Program in Its 7th Year
As one of the Fox Cities P.A.C.’s educational initiatives that connects with local schools, the Center Stage High School Musical Theater Program celebrates and supports the achievement of high school theater. Launched in 2016, the Center Stage Program has grown over the years, engaging more than 7,250 high school students in live performing arts experiences, events, workshops and activities and most recently, welcoming a record 31 participating high schools in the 2022-23 Season.
In the 2022-23 Season, approximately 2,000 students from area high schools in 10 counties throughout Northeast Wisconsin are building relationships and working toward more confidence, creativity and collaboration within themselves and with each other. Throughout the season, these high school students have been engaging in a variety of educational experiences in the performing arts and theater industry. Students have the opportunity to learn backstage management, technical aspects and performance skills through activities and workshops led by trained professionals, touring artists and Center staff.
Exploring the world of performance from touring professionals, 18 students took part in a vocal workshop with Broadway’s SIX cast members, Terica Marie (Anna of Cleves) and Amina Faye (Jane Seymour) in January. The students sang 32 measures of a song of their choice a cappella and received feedback from Terica and Amina including digging into the meaning of the song and the circumstances around it, spatial movement, gestures, audience connection and more. With just a few minutes of critique, the talented young singers displayed improved technique and delivered more emotionally charged and connective performances. Another workshop with a touring artist this season included a virtual acting monologue in February with Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning masterwork To Kill a Mockingbird cast member, Liv Rooth (Miss Stephanie). Students who participated in this learning opportunity prepared a brief monologue, receiving feedback from Liv on how to improve their portrayal of their chosen characters. Wrapping up the workshop, the high schoolers asked Liv questions about her background and experience and sought advice.
Since Broadway is a world that extends beyond being on stage, the Center Stage Program offers opportunities to see what it takes to put on a show from the technical standpoint. Recently, more than 50 Center Stage Program participants attended a technical workshop with professional stagehands who are a part of I.A.T.S.E. Local #470. Learning from skilled stage personnel on the fundamental role that stage carpentry, electrics, sounds, props, wardrobe and rigging play in show business, the students were introduced to fun behind-the-scenes facts and ideas for career paths.
Besides interactive and educational workshops, the Center Stage High School Musical Theater Program helps students build relationships and learn leadership skills through its Student Ambassador Program. Students who’ve applied and been selected to become Student Ambassadors and represent the Center Stage Program receive educational opportunities in marketing, communications, journalism, video editing and more by attending workshops and performances.
One of the Student Ambassadors, Grace Stuewer, a senior at Shawano Community High School, spoke to what inspired her to apply for the position: “I thought it would be a good way to not only learn more about my primary interest, theater, but also to step a bit outside of my comfort zone and learn to become more of a leader.” She further commented, “This year, I have had more opportunities to learn about or be in the theater than I previously knew were even possible.” For Grace, this included tours of the Fox Cities P.A.C., vocal workshops, business meetings and tickets to performances.
Other participants in the program may feel a calling for vocal performance. These students represent various schools and audition to become part of the Encore Singers, a diverse group of singers from the participating schools in the current season. By collaborating and singing together, students perform for Fox Cities Performing Arts Center and community events. They will perform at the upcoming Community Open House on April 13. Being a part of the Encore Singers allows students to network with their peers in a positive, performative setting where they connect through the power of singing.
Another aspect of the Center Stage High School Musical Theater Program is that it celebrates and highlights local high school musical theater. Each participating school puts on a musical in the season. Locally trained adjudicators attend these performances and provide constructive feedback to the schools. To further recognize their collaboration within and dedication to high school musical theater, participating schools and students take part in the Center Stage High School Musical Theater Showcase at the end of the season. This event features a Tony Awards® style red carpet experience and allows for students and community members to celebrate and support local talent and performing arts education in high schools. This year’s showcase is at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 6, 2023. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased by clicking here.
Clink the link to learn more about Adjudicators of the Center Stage Program and Meet Center Stage Student Ambassadors, Olivia and Krista. For more information about the Center Stage High School Musical Theater Program, watch for more blogs on foxcitiespac.com.
Thank you to our partners: Corporate Partner, Fox Communities Credit Union, Workshop and Rehearsal Partner, Schneider Foundation, Media Partner, WFRV, Community Engagement Recognition Partner, Wipfli and the Outstanding Achievement Recognition Partner, Angelo and Jennifer Ninivaggi.
Written by Philomena Dorobek, Brand Storyteller
Fox Cities Performing Arts Center