Showing posts with label FSPA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label FSPA. Show all posts

Friday, October 6, 2023

Did you hear Talk Talk Boom's episode with Clay Rice Thompson? (video)

In this episode, Raye Lynn Mercer, the founder and director of Franklin School for the Performing Arts and Franklin Performing Arts Company, chats with Broadway star Clay Rice Thomson, who's currently starring in Moulin Rouge on Broadway. 
He has performed in shows such as Newsies, Matilda, King Kong, and Moulin Rouge. They talk about Clay’s experience from his Broadway debut in Newsies, his experience working with different directors and choreographers, his advice for aspiring performers, and his involvement with the Franklin School for the Performing Arts. 

Recorded at FPAC’s THE BLACK BOX theater in Franklin, MA.


Thursday, September 28, 2023

Escape Into Fiction coordinates with FSPA for a Mermaid Story Time - Oct 7

"Coming Soon!!!

Mark your calendars for this fun collaboration with @fspaonline for a Mermaid Story Time.... as they prepare for their big production, we want to show our community support!

Feel free to let your little ones dress up in their favorite Mermaid character costume!"


Escape Into Fiction coordinates with FSPA for a Mermaid Story Time  - Oct 7
Escape Into Fiction coordinates with FSPA for a Mermaid Story Time  - Oct 7

Monday, September 11, 2023

Talking about the fun pathways at FSPA with Raye Lynn and Susana (audio)

FM #1058 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1058 in the series. 


This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Raye Lynn Mercer, founder and Director of the Franklin School for Performing Arts, and special guest FSPA alum Susana Cordon. We recorded this in the Franklin Public Radio Studio on  Thursday, June 1, 2023.  

Yes, this sat in the archives for a while due to some unforeseen events that held up the publication. Aside from the future view, now in the past, the pathways talked of still apply.

Susana tells her amazing story following her path through FSPA to Carnegie-Mellon and is looking forward to an exciting year with a performance in Violet (with FPAC), an alumni show with the Electric Youth European tour this summer, fall semester in Wales, followed by final semester and graduation in 2024. Definitely a commencement of whatever her future holds for her. 

We cover a lot of ground in about 34 minutes with Raye Lynn and Susana. 

Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1058-fspa-fun-pathways-06-01-23

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Tickets for Violet are available -> https://www.theblackboxonline.com/events.php?id=1597 


Susana was quoted in a article about Carnegie-Mellon https://newsinteractive.post-gazette.com/carnegie-mellon-university-school-of-drama-star-factory-patrick-wilson-susan-tsu-john-wells-myhala-herrold-purnell-center/


FPSA post about Susan’s acceptance at Carnegie-Mellon

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/05/fspa-senior-accepted-to-prestigious.html


Original conversation with Raye Lynn as we spend 38 minutes talking about 38 Main St and the evolution of FSPA to FPAC, THE BLACK BOX, et al …

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/09/raye-lynn-mercer-shares-some-stories-of.html


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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.  


This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.


How can you help?

  • If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

  • If you don't like something here, please let me know


Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.


For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/


If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com


The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.


I hope you enjoy!

------------------


You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"


Susana in the FPAC production of Tartuffe at THE BLACK BOX
Susana in the FPAC production of Tartuffe at THE BLACK BOX

Wednesday, August 30, 2023

FSPA auditions scheduled for September

Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) has scheduled several AUDITIONS! 
Give us a call at 508.528.8668 for specific requirements and more info - we hope to see you there!
FSPA auditions scheduled for September
FSPA auditions scheduled for September 

FSPA auditions scheduled for September - dance
FSPA auditions scheduled for September - dance ensambles

FSPA auditions scheduled for September - glee club
FSPA auditions scheduled for September - glee club

FSPA auditions scheduled for September - musical theater
FSPA auditions scheduled for September - musical theater

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

Little Music School open house - Weds, Aug 23, 2023

Join us Wednesday for FSPA’s Little Music School OPEN HOUSE!

Individual appointments available for a complimentary introduction to this unique children’s music program.

Ages 18 months to 5 years, Call FSPA 508-528-8668 to schedule a time for you and your child!

Director: Kim Rezendes  email at -> krezendes@fspaonline.com

“This program helped my daughter learn to follow directions, interact with her peers, and have FUN – all while learning music!”

Thursday, August 3, 2023

FSPA Senior Voice Recital scheduled for Sunday, Aug 6 at 4 PM

"You are cordially invited to the Senior Voice Recital of 


FSPA Senior Voice Recital scheduled for Sunday, Aug 6 at 4 PM
FSPA Senior Voice Recital scheduled for Sunday, Aug 6 at 4 PM

Monday, July 17, 2023

FSPA Open House schedule for July, August & September

Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will hold Open Houses for prospective families:
FSPA Open House
FSPA Open House
  • July 24, 10 AM - 7 PM
  • August 8, 10 AM - 7 PM
  • August 23, 10 AM - 7 PM
  • September 9, 10 AM - 4 PM 
Prospective families are invited to tour the facility, meet the faculty, and learn more about FSPA’s programming in music, dance, and drama for serious or recreational study!

Follow this link to Instagram to view a brief video ->   https://www.instagram.com/reel/CurxuahgGla/



Saturday, June 17, 2023

Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) schedules Open House dates for July, Aug, Sep 2023

Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will hold Open House in summer and early fall 2023 for prospective students and families at 38 Main Street. 
The community is invited to tour the facilities, observe classes, speak with faculty and staff, and learn more about FSPA programs in music, dance, and drama, whether for recreational enjoyment or serious study. 
The upcoming 2023 Open House dates 
Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) schedules Open House dates for July, Aug, Sep 2023
Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) schedules Open House dates for July, Aug, Sep 2023

Listen to 38 minutes on 38 Main St, as Raye Lynn Mercer talks about how FSPA developed and evolved over the years ->   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/09/raye-lynn-mercer-shares-some-stories-of.html

Visit FSPA online -> https://www.fspaonline.com/
 

Monday, June 12, 2023

This Town Council Quarterbacking session condenses the 06/07/23 meeting to about 35 minutes (audio)

FM #1008 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1008 in the series. 


This shares my conversation with Town Council Chair Tom Mercer in our Town Council Quarterbacking session. This is one of the series of conversations meant to provide a recap of the prior night’s Town Council meeting. 


Akin to one of the many sports post-game analysis broadcasts we are familiar with in New England, this would be a discussion focused on the Franklin Town Council meeting of June 7, 2023


  • ok, what just happened? 

  • What does it mean for Franklin residents and taxpayers?


We cover the following key topics


PROCLAMATIONS / RECOGNITIONS

Recognition: Electric Youth


APPOINTMENTS

  • Annual Reappointments of Boards and Committees - a few positions still open
  • Davis-Thayer Building Reuse Advisory Committee - recommendations by year end


Public hearings

  • License corporate formalities
  • Zoning Bylaw for Accessory Dwelling units


FY 2024 Budget - Additional $736K for school budget

  • Resolution 23-39: FY2024 Budget Adjustments
  • Resolution 23-40: MECC Stabilization Account Transfer to MECC Appropriation FY24 


Links to the meeting agenda and associated documents released for this meeting are included in the show notes. 


Our conversation runs about 35 minutes. Let’s listen to the Town Council Quarterbacking session recorded June 8, 2023

Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1008-town-council-quarterbacking-06-08-23



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The agenda doc can also be found on the Town of Franklin page ->   

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/town_council_agenda_-_june_7_2023.pdf 


FY 2024 budget documents https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/webforms/fy-24-budget-materials 



My notes in one PDF file -> 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hc2egjV3zKOqJmIziMKApdR4z24gNMya/view?usp=drive_link


Franklin TV meeting video ->  https://www.youtube.com/live/eejInS90WgM?feature=share


--------------


We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.  


This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.


How can you help?

  • If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

  • If you don't like something here, please let me know


Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.


For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/


If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com


The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.


I hope you enjoy!

------------------


You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"


This Town Council Quarterbacking session condenses the 06/07/23 meeting to about 35 minutes (audio)
This Town Council Quarterbacking session condenses the 06/07/23 meeting to about 35 minutes (audio)

Thursday, April 13, 2023

FSPA Students to Perform at Walt Disney World

Students from the Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will travel to Walt Disney World during the April school break to perform for Disney audiences and participate in master classes with Disney performers, choreographers, and directors. FSPA musical theater troupes Broadway Light, Broadway Ladies, and Broadway Bound, as well as the senior dance ensemble, CenterStage, will entertain at Disney Springs’ Waterside Stage. FSPA’s students are regularly selected for unique experiences like meeting the Finding Nemo and Beauty and the Beast casts or having a Q & A with Disney's Mary Poppins on Broadway, Ashley Brown.

FSPA Students to Perform at Walt Disney World
FSPA Students to Perform at Walt Disney World
FSPA performing troupe and dance company members are selected at the beginning of each academic year by audition. The ensembles offer outstanding training and performing opportunities throughout the year. 

The Disney-bound students recently presented their 25 minute sets at the annual Disney Showcase at THE BLACK BOX.  Audiences enjoyed Broadway Light, Broadway Ladies, Broadway Bound, and CenterStage, along with the younger Lite Brites, BLT2 and Next Step ensembles. These groups will all perform in FSPA’s annual Spring Concert on May 20 and 21. Auditions for these groups will be held in September for the 23-24 School Year. 

For more information on FSPA performing ensembles, visit www.FSPAonline.com or call 508-528-8668. Follow FSPA on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Prospective students are invited to take advantage of an FSPA All Access Pass for a tour of the school, complimentary trial class, and free tickets to a Spring Concert performance. 



Friday, March 31, 2023

Ballet Franklin to perform "Spectrum" April 1 & 2

Ballet Franklin, the ballet conservatory at Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA), presents "Spectrum" April 1 at 7 PM and April 2 at 2 PM! 

Under the direction of Cheryl Madeux, the students represent Gerald Arpino's Viva Vivaldi, Western Revelries, Class Concert, and Contemporary works.

Ticket available online -> https://ci.ovationtix.com/36234


Ballet Franklin to perform "Spectrum" April 1 & 2
Ballet Franklin to perform "Spectrum" April 1 & 2


Thursday, March 2, 2023

FSPA Musical Theater Showcase moves to 3/15/23

"In anticipation of inclement weather and missed rehearsal time, the FSPA Musical Theater Showcase (originally scheduled for March 2) is postponed and will be held Wednesday, March 15 
Dress Rehearsal information will be available shortly."

FSPA Musical Theater Showcase moves to 3/15/23
FSPA Musical Theater Showcase moves to 3/15/23

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

FSPA schedules student performances of "The Addams Family"

FSPA will present The Addams Family February 10 and 11 at THE BLACK BOX as an all-student production! 
THE ADDAMS FAMILY, a comical feast that embraces the wackiness in every family, features an original story and it’s every father’s nightmare: Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family– a man her parents have never met. And if that wasn’t upsetting enough, Wednesday confides in her father and begs him not to tell her mother. Now, Gomez Addams must do something he’s never done before– keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia. Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents.

FSPA schedules student performances of "The Addams Family"
FSPA schedules student performances of "The Addams Family"



FSPA's younger musical theater students will present a musical revue entitled "Family Reunion" for 2 performances on February 11 at THE BLACK BOX! 


FSPA presents Family Reunion

FSPA presents Family Reunion

Thursday, December 22, 2022

Up next at FPAC: The Wolves January 6-8 at THE BLACK BOX

Directed by Ali Funkhouser, the all female-identifying cast of 10 is comprised of young professional artists, collegiate actors, and student apprentices from the Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA)

Known only by their numbers to the audience, the characters of The Wolves will be portrayed by LA’s Courtney Beyer (#46), NYC’s Elena Doyno (#00), University of Tampa Musical Theatre’s Kelsey Breslin (#11), University of Connecticut’s Caroline Wilkins (#25), University of Oklahoma Acting’s Sami Goldman (#7), FPAC Apprentices Erin Belger (#2), Tzintli Cerda (#14), Anya Fox (#13), Madigan Wirkus (#8), and actress Hallie Wetzell (Soccer Mom).

The Wolves follows a girls indoor soccer team. From the safety of their suburban stretch circle, the team navigates big questions and wages tiny battles with all the vim and vigor of a pack of adolescent warriors. A portrait of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for nine American girls who just want to score some goals.

The play will feature soccer movement directed by Franklin’s Calen Frongillo.

A finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, The Wolves tackles mature themes including characters in honest discussions about relationships, politics, death, and more. Because of its subject matter and strong language, it is not recommended for children. For a more detailed content warning, please visit FPAConline.com.

For tickets and more information, visit THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call the box office at 508-528-3370!

Shared from Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/p/CmcgSo0vv5B

Wednesday, November 23, 2022

Franklin School for Performing Arts (FSPA) Homecoming 2022

Franklin School for Performing Arts (FSPA) Homecoming 2022
Franklin School for Performing Arts (FSPA) Homecoming 2022
The FSPA Homecoming for Alumni, Alumni Parents, Students, Parents, and all Faculty is scheduled for Friday, November 25 at 7:00 PM at THE BLACK BOX.

Live Music  ~ Snacks ~  Cash Bar
Tickets online AND at the door!
$15 GA | $50 
Family Max; Alumni FREE! 




Thursday, September 29, 2022

Raye Lynn Mercer shares some stories of 38 years at 38 Main St (audio)

FM #850 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 850 in the series. 


This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Raye Lynn Mercer, founder and Director of the Franklin School for Performing Arts. We recorded this in the Franklin Public Radio Studio on Hutchinson St Wednesday, Sep 14, 2022.  

Starting their 38th year at 38 Main St in downtown Franklin, Raye Lynn shares the development of the Franklin School for Performing Arts (FSPA), and organic expansion over the years to include the Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC), getting their own performance home with THE BLACK BOX, the development of the equity actors agreement, and the current season of performances that was just announced.

We cover a lot of ground in about 35 minutes but there are more stories to come so let’s listen to my conversation with Raye Lynn Mercer.


Audio file -> 
https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-850-raye-lynn-mercer-38-years-at-38-main-09-14-22


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Relevant links for the organic growth from the origin point at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts


Franklin School for the Performing Arts  https://www.fspaonline.com/ 


Franklin Performing Arts Company https://www.fpaconline.com/ 


THE BLACK BOX   https://www.theblackboxonline.com/ 


Intermission   https://www.intermissioncafeonline.com/ 


Ballet Franklin   https://balletfranklin.com/ 


--------------

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.  


This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.


How can you help?

  • If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

  • If you don't like something here, please let me know


Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.


For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/


If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com


The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.


I hope you enjoy!

------------------


You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"


Raye Lynn Mercer shares some stories of 38 years at 38 Main St (audio)
Raye Lynn Mercer shares some stories of 38 years at 38 Main St (audio)