FSPA Senior accepted to prestigious Carnegie Mellon Music Theater Program

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) is excited to announce that FSPA Senior Susana Wickstrom of Wrentham has been accepted to the prestigious School of Drama at Carnegie Mellon University to obtain her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Theater. The Music Theater program at Carnegie Mellon only accepts six female and six male students every year.

For her high school education, Wickstrom attended FSPA Academy, a collaboration with TEC Connections Academy (TECCA), and the Franklin School for the Performing Arts. The FSPA Academy model combines the flexibility of a virtual education while providing warm, welcoming classrooms, supportive learning coaches, and a creative, community-minded school environment. For career-bound students of the arts like Wickstrom, FSPA Academy accommodates professional opportunities, rehearsal, and performance schedules. Partnering with TECCA, a virtual Massachusetts Public School, the curriculum is taught by licensed, certified teachers through a combination of live lessons and individual assignments.

Additionally, Wickstrom trained rigorously in the performing arts at FSPA, taking classes six days a week in singing, acting, and all disciplines of dance. On top of her academic and arts course loads, Wickstrom was cast frequently in productions with the Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC), appearing in productions at THE BLACK BOX alongside Broadway stars and working with Broadway choreographers. This past October, she got the chance to star as Miss Honey in FPAC’s production of Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical choreographed by original Broadway cast member Clay Thomson.

Wickstrom spent her last 4 summers touring Europe with the international touring ensemble Electric Youth. With this select group of young performers, she sang and danced her way across the U.K., France, Italy, Switzerland, and Austria performing all genres of music backed by the Boston Show Band, eight of Boston’s most in-demand musicians.

Of her training at FSPA Wickstrom notes, “FSPA has taught me absolutely everything that I know. I owe the world to it. My teachers there taught me why I love the arts, and why I want to pursue it for the rest of my life.”

Susana in the FPAC production of Tartuffe at THE BLACK BOX

FSPA to Hold a Series of Virtual Open Houses

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will hold a series of Virtual Open Houses for prospective students and families live on their Facebook page. The community is invited to join FSPA director Raye Lynn Mercer to tour the facilities, ask questions, and learn more about FSPA programs in music, dance, and drama, whether for recreational enjoyment or serious study. 

The Virtual Open Houses will be held on Wednesday, May 27, Monday, June 8, and Wednesday June 24 at 4:00 pm. Raye Lynn Mercer will lead viewers on a tour of the school’s 38 Main Street facility, discuss class offerings, and answer previously submitted questions as well as questions asked in the comments in real time.

Serving more than 500 students annually from 45 communities in Massachusetts’ Metro West region, FSPA is committed to quality education in the arts with exceptional curriculum, outstanding professional faculty, and unwavering dedication to each and every student enrolled. Founded in 1985, FSPA is a unique place where students of all ages and levels of ability participate in an array of music, dance, and drama programs with professional instruction and extraordinary performing opportunities. 

FSPA’s faculty boasts outstanding professional artists, performers, and teachers. Their impressive credentials are indicative of the excellent instruction available in all programs. FSPA instructors strive to meet the individual needs of each student, working to develop each student’s abilities to his or her own potential.

Performance is an integral part of an FSPA education and the school offers unrivaled performing opportunities for students throughout the year. On the calendar annually are student recitals, concerts by faculty and guest artists, master classes, student showcases, holiday shows, the school’s signature Spring Concert, and summer camps and intensives. In addition, for students whose level of interest is more focused, there are special performing ensemble opportunities available by audition.

The Virtual Open Houses will be held live on the Franklin School for the Performing Arts Facebook page. Visit www.FSPAonline.com for more information. Follow FSPA on Facebook, Instagram (@FSPAonline), and Twitter (@FSPAonline).

 

FSPA to Hold a Series of Virtual Open Houses

FSPA Introduces Broadway Faculty

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) has announced a new roster of FSPA Broadway Faculty. The nine Broadway professionals are available to enrolled students for private coaching via Zoom. Coachings are available for singing, acting, dance, and self-marketing in the theater industry. When classes resume in person, the Broadway faculty will be featured in FSPA’s master class programs in Franklin and New York City.

Ben Cameron from the original Broadway cast of WICKED, Footloose, and Aida will coach students in Voice and Dance. Sara Jean Ford, a former Christine in Phantom of the Opera who also appeared in Finian’s Rainbow, CATS, How to Succeed…, and A Little Night Music will offer Voice and Acting coachings. Tyler Hanes, most recently seen on Broadway as the Rum Tum Tugger in CATS as well as Oklahoma!, Hairspray, The Boy from Oz, and more will coach Voice and Dance students. Jim Hogan of the national tours of Waitress, Phantom of the Opera, and Spring Awakening will offer Voice and Acting Coachings. Emily Koch who starred as Elphaba in WICKED and Jenna in Waitress will also coach Voice and Acting students. FSPA welcomes Kara Lindsay who originated the role of Katherine in Disney’s Newsies and appeared as Glinda in WICKED and Cynthia Weil in Beautiful to coach students in Voice and Acting. Kevin Massey, star of Disney’s Tarzan, A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder, and more will also coach Voice and Acting students. Christopher Rice from the Broadway companies of The Book of Morman and Pretty Woman and of #TAPPY fame will offer coachings in Voice, Dance, and self-marketing in the theater industry. Closing out the roster, Clay Thomson from Disney’s Newsies, Matilda, WICKED, and KING KONG will coach Voice and Dance.

Relationships with the Broadway community have been developed through programs in Franklin including FSPA’s Broadway Boot Camp, the annual Broadway Weekend, and classes offered in conjunction with THE BLACK BOX Broadway Series. “We are thrilled to offer this unique opportunity to our students,” says FSPA Director Raye Lynn Mercer. “It is very exciting that these acclaimed performers have taken a special interest in our students and our school’s curriculum.” Five of the nine teaching artists performed at FSPA’s 35th Anniversary concert at The Green Room 42 in New York City this past January.

To coach with the FSPA Broadway Faculty, students must be enrolled at FSPA in the corresponding disciplines. For more information about the offerings at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts, call 508-528-8668 or visit www.FSPAonline.com.

 

Top Row (L to R): Ben Cameron, Sara Jean Ford. Tyler Hanes. Middle Row: Jim Hogan, Emily Koch, Kara Lindsay. Bottom Row: Kevin Massey, Christopher Rice, Clay Thomson

FSPA Broadway Faculty Brings Performing Arts Education to the Public

Over their observed April Vacation, the Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) presented a series of Master Classes and Industry Q&As to students as well as the general public free of charge on Facebook Live. The week kicked off with a Jazz Dance Master Class with Broadway’s Christopher Rice (Hamilton, The Book of Mormon, Pretty Woman) and Clay Thomson (WICKED, Newsies, Matilda, King Kong). The Broadway performers led students in a warmup and then taught a combination to “All That Jazz” from the musical Chicago.

On Tuesday, attendees enjoyed a live question and answer session with Broadway Digital Marketing Professional Ali Wondely. Wonderly has worked on many Broadway shows including Hamilton, Moulin Rouge, Be More Chill, and Escape to Margarittaville. She discussed with students the business of Broadway and many “off-stage” theatrical career options.

Wednesday continued with a Ballet Master Class with FSPA Ballet Conservatory Director Cheryl Madeux. Madeux received her training at the Nutmeg Conservatory For The Arts and has enjoyed a long professional career, dancing with such venerable companies as the Joffrey Ballet and American Ballet Theatre, and as principal dancer with the Hartford Ballet. She is a summer faculty member for the ABT® Young Dancers Program in NY and an examiner for the ABT® National Training Curriculum.

The week continued with a Theater Dance Master Class with NYC actor, director, and choreographer Chaz Wolcott. Wolcott is known for his roles in the touring companies of Newsies and CATS as well as his stint on So You Think You Can Dance. He led the virtual class in a warmup and then taught his own choreography to “Dancin’ In the Street.” 

Chaz Wolcott (Newsies, So You Think You Can Dance) teaching 

Theater Dance for FSPA via Facebook Live

FSPA April Break finished on Friday with a live Q&A with Broadway’s Christopher Rice discussing Swings, Understudies, and Standbys. Rice informed the attendees on the different kinds of “coverage” roles that exist within the cast of a show and answered questions on how an actor prepares for that challenge.

The students at FSPA have long benefited from the school’s Broadway connection, as the school consistently brings in guest teachers from New York. Tony Award winner Beth Leavel comments, “I wish I had a Franklin School for the Performing Arts in my life when I was growing up. It’s invaluable.” FSPA students have even gone on to perform on the Great White Way themselves, noting the school as a major part of their success. Dan Gleason (‘06) of the Broadway cast of WICKED says, “I owe a lot of my consistent vocal health and technique to my years at FSPA. Healthy singing habits were ingrained in my body and it has become second nature.”

Fall registration is now open at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts. Call 508-528-8668 or visit www.FSPAonline.com for more information. Follow FSPA on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Franklin School for the Performing Arts Introduces VirtualFSPA

On Monday, March 23, the Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) introduced VirtualFSPA, allowing students to continue their performing arts education while social distancing due to COVID-19. 

The Music Department instructors are teaching private lessons on the FaceTime, Zoom, or Skype platforms. All Dance and Drama Department classes, as well as Group Voice Classes and Little Music School, will be on BAND. The free app has already been successfully used at FSPA to distribute choreography and class/rehearsal materials. 

Students have been invited to join their specific classes on BAND and the classes will be posted at regular class time each day. FSPA Director Raye Lynn Mercer comments, “Although they can access their classes anytime, I think that originally posting the curriculum at regular class times gives students after school activities to look forward to and a bit of normalcy in their schedules.”

Mercer continues, “This is clearly a very difficult time, but this unique situation offers the chance for us to help keep our students busy at home, involved with FSPA, and continuing with preparations for Spring Concert and Music Department studio recitals. “ 

Additionally, FSPA has been providing at-home challenges, contests, and activities on their social media pages to keep students performing while at home. Projects have included a choreography challenge, a compilation reading of Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18, “FSPA Shower Concerts,” the Time Step Challenge, and more. 

Follow FSPA on 
Facebook   https://www.facebook.com/FSPAonline/

Instagram (@fspaonline)  https://www.instagram.com/fspaonline/

Twitter (@fspaonline)  https://twitter.com/fspaonline

YouTube (Franklin School for the Performing Arts)
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKkCQfWPhaucwL-WiLECWbA

And of course, their home page   https://fspaonline.com/

Franklin School for the Performing Arts Introduces VirtualFSPA

 

FSPA Musical Theater Program to present “Disaster!” - Feb 1-2

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) Musical Theater program will present “Disaster!” at THE BLACK BOX. This features an all-student youth cast on February 1 at 1:00 and 4:00 PM and an all-student teen cast on February 8 at 2:00 and 7:30 PM. Earthquakes, tidal waves, infernos, and the unforgettable songs of the '70s take center stage in Broadway’s side-splitting homage to classic disaster films.

With extensive programs in music, dance, and drama all housed under one roof, FSPA is uniquely positioned to offer an immersive interdisciplinary musical theater experience. Younger students explore the exciting world of musical theater with an introduction to basic skills in singing, acting, and dancing, while older and more advanced students build upon this foundation with increasingly challenging repertoire, technique, and scene work. 

Musical theater history and audition technique round out the department’s hands-on, multi-disciplinary opportunities. Alumni of FSPA’s Musical Theater program have gone on to perform on Broadway, in national tours, regional theater, cruise ships, and other venues around the world.

For tickets to “Disaster!” and more information on FSPA’s offerings, visit www.FSPAonline.com or call 508-528-8668. Performed .

 

FSPA Musical Theater Program to present “Disaster!” - Feb 1-2

FSPA Continues Children’s Dance Programming

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA), currently celebrating its 35th Anniversary Season, continues its thriving Children’s Dance Program. Dance training at FSPA begins with an Early Childhood Dance Program designed to promote creativity and fun through movement. This introduction to ballet and dance encourages self-control, discipline, and proper classroom etiquette.

Creative Dance, a class for 3- and 4-year-olds, is an introduction to dance that explores creative movement, levels, shapes, tempos, and rhythms and develops coordination and locomotor skills. Props and stories are used to engage young children and to create a fun and active learning environment. This class presents a studio performance in lieu of the school’s Spring Concert. Students must be able to participate in class without parental presence and should be cooperative in a group situation. Three-year-olds must be evaluated in a class prior to registration.

Rhythm and Movement, a class for 4- and 5-year-olds, offers pre-dance instruction including exercises in balance, movement, rhythm, coordination, and creativity. Children begin to develop locomotor skills, such as skipping and galloping, and learn the structure of a dance class. Stories and props are used to engage young children. Listening skills are encouraged. Students must be 4 years old or have completed a year of Creative Dance.

Children’s Dance

Pre-Ballet is a primary course which allows 5-7 year-olds the opportunity to progress into any form of dance. Rudimentary ballet positions, as well as basic ballet vocabulary, are taught along with floor exercises, simple steps, and correct posture. A greater emphasis on musicality and rhythm is encouraged. Five-year-olds must have studied one year of Rhythm & Movement at FSPA or be evaluated and recommended for Pre-Ballet by an FSPA instructor.

Introduction to Ballet is for students ages 6-8 and begins a wider study of ballet vocabulary with a greater focus on correct posture and placement. The importance of concentration, self-control, and discipline are emphasized and necessary for the progression to Ballet I. Basic steps are performed in the center, across the floor, and in simple pathways. Students must have completed Rhythm & Movement and Pre-Ballet programs at FSPA or be evaluated for Introduction to Ballet by an FSPA instructor.

For more information on Children’s Dance at FSPA, call 508-528-8668 or stop by the school located at 38 Main St. in Franklin, MA. 

FSPA Celebrates 35th Anniversary

In 1985, lifetime Franklin resident Raye Lynn Mercer, director, pianist, and educator, departed from her private studio of 35 piano students with a vision, and opened the doors of the Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) at 38 Main Street in Franklin. Offering the region a one-of-a-kind performing arts education program that includes music, dance, and drama under one roof, FSPA Celebrates its 35th Anniversary Season this year.

The anniversary celebrations began with a back-to-school toast at 38 Main Street for faculty and FSPA families past and present. The year’s festivities will include an anniversary alumni concert and celebration at THE BLACK BOX over Thanksgiving weekend, a special February cabaret featuring current students, faculty, alumni, and Broadway friends of FSPA at one of NYC’s most prestigious cabaret venues, the 35th Spring Concert in May, and more.

Through the years, FSPA has cultivated relationships with performers and guest teachers who are currently dominating their artistic fields. These artists are able to mentor FSPA students through the school’s annual NYC master class weekend as well as special workshops held at the school. "I wish I had a Franklin School for the Performing Arts in my life when I was growing up,” says Tony Award winner Beth Leavel. “It's invaluable."

Raye Lynn Mercer

FSPA’s alumni have a long track record of success. Students have gone on to appear on Broadway, in national tours, regional theater, professional ballet companies, TV, feature film, opera, cruise ships, concert dance, and more. Alum Dan Gleason, currently in Wicked on Broadway, says of his FSPA beginnings, “ I owe a lot of my consistent vocal health and technique to my years at FSPA. Healthy singing habits were ingrained in my body and now are second nature. FSPA set me up for success in life and I am so thankful for my years of training in my hometown.”

FSPA founder Raye Lynn Mercer believes that an education in the performing arts, whether or not pursued for a professional career, provides young people with lasting life skills. Students of the arts develop personal attributes including focus, discipline, self-esteem, and an understanding of teamwork. Superior communication and social skills become attributes of students who pursue music, dance, and drama. Conservatory and career bound students, as well as those who attend classes for fun, gain a sense of accomplishment and the confidence they need to succeed in all endeavors. 

FSPA violin instructor Irina Fainkichen says of the school’s environment, "I see FSPA as a second home for many students. Besides all the opportunities this school provides, and believe me, there are so many, I love that everybody has so much fun together. We are like a big and loud family. Whether in the hallways or classrooms, you can hear music, dancing, singing, and laughter everywhere."

For more information on the Franklin School for the Performing Arts and its programs visit www.FSPAonline.com or call 508-528-8668. FSPA will hold open houses for prospective students and families at 38 Main Street on October 10 from 4:00-8:00 pm and October 30 from 4:00-8:00 pm. 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.

FSPA to present “How to Audition” Workshop with Raye Lynn Mercer - Sep 21

Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) Director Raye Lynn Mercer will present a "How To Audition" Workshop on Saturday, September 21 from 1:00-2:30 pm in the school's Recital Hall at 38 Main Street. Students and parents are invited to learn about the audition process in an entertaining, interactive format with demonstrations and time for questions from attendees. Included in the workshop are what to expect, how to prepare, and how to conduct oneself at any audition.

The workshop is appropriate for those getting ready for a first audition experience as well as those who are ready to raise the level of their audition presentation. “This workshop takes the mystery out of the process and demonstrates what happens before, during and after the audition. The right preparation and appropriate expectations help make auditioning a positive experience,” says Mercer.

Raye Lynn Mercer

In addition to preparing students for local auditions, Mercer and her staff successfully prepare high school students to audition for college performing arts programs. FSPA alumni are attending top colleges and conservatories including NYU Tisch, Penn State, Oberlin, Oklahoma City University, Hartt School of Music, Baldwin Wallace Conservatory, and Syracuse University, while FSPA's college graduates are enjoying active careers on Broadway, in national tours, regional theater, film and television. Current FSPA musical theater students have the opportunity to audition for New York City agents and casting directors as well as professional theater.

Registration for the "How To Audition" Workshop can be done in advance at the FSPA Office or by calling 508-528-8668. The workshop is open to anyone and recommended for beginner and intermediate performers and highly recommended for parents.

Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) - Open House Series

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will hold a series of Open House events 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.

FSPA Open House Series

The open house will be held on Tuesday, September 17 from 4 PM to 8 PM with an additional open houses on Thursday, October 10 and Wednesday, October 30 from 4 PM to 8 PM.

Proudly serving more than 500 students annually from 45 communities in Massachusetts’ Metro West region, the Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) is committed to quality education in the arts with exceptional curriculum, outstanding professional faculty and unwavering dedication to each and every student enrolled. 

FSPA to Offer New Songwriting Class

Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) is excited to announce a new class offering this year. New faculty member Cordelia Tapping will introduce a Songwriting course to the school. The class will focus on the process of songwriting by exploring each of its elements in depth: lyrics, melody, harmony, rhythm, and the ways they create emotional impact. Part of each class will be devoted to listening to and discussing songs from a variety of different genres and artists. 

Students will be encouraged to bring in material, whether it be a song they love, a poem that speaks to them, or something they have written or are in the process of writing that they would like to workshop.

Cordelia Tapping

Cordelia Tapping holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Performance from New England Conservatory. She is a singer and songwriter who has performed throughout the U.S. including at the Off the Hook Arts Festival in Colorado, Jazz Central Studios in Minneapolis, Rockwood Music Hall in New York, the Celebrity Series in Boston, and in NEC’s Jordan Hall as backup for Lake Street Dive and as a soloist with the NEC Jazz Orchestra. At NEC, Cordelia taught songwriting workshops through the Community Performances and Partnerships department.

For more information about this class, the school, or to request a course catalogue and class schedule, call (508) 528-8668 or visit www.FSPAonline.com.

FSPA’s Ballet Conservatory Thrives

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA), now in its 35th year, will continue its Ballet Conservatory program this season. FSPA's Ballet Conservatory offers classical ballet education of the highest quality. An extensive range of training and performance experiences provides exceptional opportunities for students of all ages and levels interested in the study of classical ballet. 

The FSPA Ballet curriculum is based on the foundations of the ABT National Training Curriculum. As of 2015, all teachers on the Conservatory Track have been certified in the NTC program.

The first levels of the ballet program begins an earnest study of classical ballet. Barre work is introduced with a strong focus on individual turnout, foot development, and port de bra. As dancers progress into the intermediate levels, the faculty carefully evaluates each student's progress and potential for pointe work while continuing to nurture the desire to dance. 
 

FSPA’s Ballet Conservatory Thrives

The Pre-Professional Program begins advanced ballet technique and pointe. Admission is by teacher evaluation and audition only. This program consists of FSPA’s most challenging and demanding schedule and provides additional performance opportunities for dancers, along with private coaching and extra classes if desired.

FSPA’s Ballet program is under the direction of Cheryl Madeux, a former dancer with American Ballet Theatre, Joffery Ballet, and Hartford Ballet. She received her training at the Nutmeg Conservatory for the Arts. Ms. Madeux has performed extensively throughout the United States and Europe, worked with leading choreographers including Gerald Arpino, Kirk Peterson, and Twyla Tharp, and been coached by such ballet luminaries as Igor Youskevitch and Eleanor D’Antuono. Her extensive classical repertoire includes all the full-length classical productions as well as principal roles in The Nutcracker, Giselle, Coppelia, The Firebird, Balanchine’s Serenade, Spectra de La Rose, and much more. 

Many of Ms. Madeux’s FSPA Ballet Conservatory students have been accepted to some of the most prestigious summer programs available and a select few recently participated and advanced to the finals of the Youth America Grand Prix in NY. Ms. Madeux is also a summer faculty member for the ABT Young Dancers Program in NY and an examiner for the ABT National Training Curriculum.

This past year, FSPA presented its students for Examinations in the American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum at ABT’s studios in New York, NY. The Examination class was taught by Ms. Madeux. FSPA is proud to incorporate the American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum, a nine-level program that combines high quality artistic training with the basics of dancer health and child development for students of all ages and skill levels. Upon successful exam completion, Cheryl Madeux earned the distinction of ABT Affiliate Teacher.

FSPA offers two additional tracks of Ballet study for students not on the pre-professional path and advanced dancers with limited time in their schedules. The Standard Track is designed to train and educate students in classical ballet so they may use this knowledge to enhance other disciplines and prepare to enter competitive college dance programs, if desired. Pointe is not offered on this track, allowing for fewer requirements and greater flexibility of schedules. 

Students are evaluated for placement in the level to assure continued development and success. The Recreational Ballet Program is comprised of once-a-week classes to meet the needs of older students with no prior experience who wish to explore the discipline of classical ballet and dancers with some experience who want to continue study for enjoyment.

For more information on Ballet at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts, visit www.FSPAonline.com, call 508-528-8668, or stop by the facility at 38 Main Street in Franklin, MA.

FSPA Continues Renowned “Little Music School” Program

Now in its 35th year, the Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will continue to offer its renowned “Little Music School” program. Unique to FSPA, Little Music School (LMS) teaches children as young as 18 months to play the piano, engaging them from the earliest age in the joys of music-making and exploration of the arts.

Under the direction of Kim Rezendes, Little Music School is a dynamic and inspiring music program that teaches children to play the piano and explore the musical world around them. Built on the Three Cs – Color, Creativity, and Core – the LMS program welcomes children into a creative world where music making and enjoyment is fostered, through group play, while singing, playing the piano, imagining, and creating.

“Little Music School” program

The program uses color to make written music more accessible to young children by drawing relationships between notations and different hues. Creative activities encourage children to take ownership of the music-making process and to interpret and express music in their own way. 

Little Music School students build a solid musical foundation and benefit greatly from early music instruction. Children develop musical understanding and skills in numerous areas including ear training, sight singing, sight reading, tonal recognition, rhythm, and note reading. 

LMS students also become familiar with important musical terminology, concepts, and history beginning with their first class. A Little Music School mom from Norfolk remarked, "In the short time since our son has been enrolled, we have seen his confidence in social settings, willingness to follow instructions, and ability to interact with others grow remarkably."

With a maximum student-teacher ratio of 7:1, children enjoy individualized attention and not a “one-size-fits-all” curriculum. LMS students learn how to read, understand, and appreciate music while playing the piano in weekly classes and peer recitals throughout the year. At the same time, they gain confidence, independence, and self-esteem; improve gross and fine motor skills; enhance coordination, creativity, comprehension, and memory retention; and develop social, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and communication skills.

For more information on Little Music School at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts, visit www.FSPAonline.com, call 508-528-8668, or stop by the facility at 38 Main Street in Franklin, MA. 

FPAC to Host Dance Master Class with Broadway’s Clay Thomson - Aug 29

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) is excited to host a Matilda-themed Dance Master Class with original Broadway cast member Clay Thomson on Thursday, August 29 at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts at 38 Main Street in Franklin, MA. Thomson will be returning to Franklin in the fall to choreograph FPAC’s production of Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical.

There will be a Beginning/Intermediate level class (minimum age 9) from 4:00-5:30 pm and an Intermediate/Advanced level class from 6:00-8:00 pm. Students will learn choreography from the Broadway production with Clay Thomson. The Beginning/Intermediate class is $25, the Intermediate/Advanced class is $30, and both classes together are $40.

Clay Thomson

Currently appearing in KING KONG on Broadway, Clay Thomson started out as a competitive gymnast at the age of four, which eventually led him into the performing arts. At age twelve, Clay joined the Cameron Mackintosh/NETworks tour of Oliver!.

After Clay completed his freshman year at Pennsylvania State University studying Musical Theatre, Clay toured the U.S, Canada, and Japan with the Broadway First National Tour of West Side Story as A-rab. Soon after returning from tour, he made his Broadway debut in Disney's Newsies, playing Spot Conlon. After that, he was cast in the Original Broadway cast of Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical.

In 2014, Clay left Matilda to perform in New York City Center Encores' productions of Little Me and The Most Happy Fella. Clay has also made numerous television appearances, performing on shows such as Dancing with the Stars, The 2013 TONY Awards, The 2012 and 2013 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, The Late Show with David Letterman, The View, Good Morning America, Good Afternoon America, and more.

Clay has taught master classes around the U.S, including classes at Broadway Dance Center, Broadway Artists Alliance NYC, Camp Broadway, Broadway Workshop, Broadway Classroom, and dozens of high schools, dance studios and universities all around the country. He is featured in the viral YouTube video #CupsTapDance as well as his most recent appearance in The Happy Tap Dance #TAPPY.

To reserve a spot in the Master Class, call 508-528-8668. Follow Franklin Performing Arts Company on Facebook, Instagram (@franklin.performing.arts.co), Twitter (@fpac_online), and YouTube.

FSPA Celebrates 35th Anniversary

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will celebrate its 35th Anniversary Season beginning in September. Since 1985, FSPA has been dedicated to the enjoyment of the arts for all ages and to the artistic growth and development of young people. Founded by Director Raye Lynn Mercer and built upon the notion that arts experiences are an integral part of a well-rounded education, FSPA provides a nurturing environment where students grow skills for the stage – and for life. 

Children develop a sense of independence and accomplishment at an early age, while gaining confidence, poise, and self-esteem. The performing arts impart life skills, expanding students’ ability to communicate effectively, whether in the secondary school classroom or other public speaking opportunities. The arts also enhance creativity and imagination, developing improvisatory skills to navigate a rapidly changing world.

With a distinguished faculty of Boston-area artists, expansive roster of classes and extensive calendar of wide-ranging performance opportunities, FSPA serves students of all ages and levels of ability, whether for recreational enjoyment or serious study.

FSPA’s Music Department offers private voice lessons and instruction on all instruments, along with group voice classes, music theory and chamber music, jazz, and percussion ensembles. Performing opportunities for singers include the FSPA Glee Club, studio voice recitals, opera scenes, acoustic coffee houses, and musical theater showcases. FSPA’s innovative Little Music School program teaches children as young as 18 months to play the piano and offers creative and engaging general music classes for children ages 1-5.

The Dance Department provides programs for all ages and levels in ballet, jazz, tap, modern, commercial dance, dance for musical theater, and contemporary, and also features classes for boys, adults and beginner teens. Performance opportunities include Spring Concert, Ballet Conservatory performances, Next Step and CenterStage ensembles, and FSPA Dance Company. Many dancers are also cast, by audition, in Franklin Performing Arts Company’s annual holiday production of The Nutcracker, featuring professional orchestra and special guest artists.

For drama students, beginning in kindergarten, FSPA offers an extensive range of acting and musical theater classes that build performance skills and explore theater games, improvisation, character development, and scene work. Musical theater troupes for students in grades 5-12 are cast each year, with annual performance trips to Walt Disney World for select ensembles. FSPA students also perform, through audition, in Franklin Performing Arts Company’s annual season of shows alongside FSPA alumni, professional performers, and Broadway guests.

FSPA Celebrates 35th Anniversary

Alumni of the Franklin School for the Performing Arts have gone on to Broadway, national tours, extensive regional theater, professional opera, TV and feature film, professional dance companies, and more.

For more information, visit www.FSPAonline.com or call 508-528-8668. Follow FSPA on Facebook, Instagram (@fspaonline), Twitter (@fspaonline), and YouTube.

FSPA to host Open House - Aug 21 and Sep 7

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will hold an Open House 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 open house will be held on Wednesday, August 21 from 10 am - 7 pm with an additional open house on Saturday, September 7 from 10 am - 4 pm.

Proudly serving more than 500 students annually from 45 communities in Massachusetts’ Metro West region, the Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) is committed to quality education in the arts with exceptional curriculum, outstanding professional faculty and unwavering dedication to each and every student enrolled. 
 

FSPA to host Open House

Founded in 1985 by Director Raye Lynn Mercer, FSPA is a unique place where students of all ages and levels of ability participate in an array of music, dance, and drama programs with professional instruction and extraordinary performing opportunities. With broad-based and varied curricula, FSPA guides students in the development of technique, creativity, and artistic expression to last a lifetime. 

FSPA’s faculty boasts outstanding professional artists, performers, and teachers. Their impressive credentials are indicative of the excellent instruction available in all programs. FSPA instructors strive to meet the individual needs of each student, working to develop each student’s abilities to his or her own potential.

Performance is an integral part of an FSPA education and the school offers unrivaled performing opportunities for students throughout the year. On the calendar annually are student recitals, concerts by faculty and guest artists, master classes, student showcases, holiday shows, the school’s signature Spring Concert, and summer camps and intensives. In addition, for students whose level of interest is more focused, there are special performing ensemble opportunities available by audition. 

THE BLACK BOX, home of the Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC), a 200-seat flexible theater located behind FSPA, provides a professional venue for FSPA student productions, while FPAC offers opportunities by audition for student performers.

For more information about FSPA and its programs, visit www.FSPAonline.com, call 508-528-8668, or stop by 38 Main St. in Franklin. You can follow FSPA on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

FSPA Summer Theater presents "Footloose" Aug 8-9

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts Summer Theater program will present an all-student production of Footloose on August 8 and 9 at 7:30 pm at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin.

When Ren and his mother move from Chicago to a small farming town, Ren is prepared for the inevitable adjustment period at his new high school. What he isn't prepared for are the rigorous local edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted by the local preacher, determined to exercise the control over the town's youth that he cannot command in his own home. 

When the reverend's rebellious daughter sets her sights on Ren, her roughneck boyfriend tries to sabotage Ren's reputation, with many of the locals eager to believe the worst about the new kid. The heartfelt story that emerges is of a father longing for the son he lost and of a young man aching for the father who walked out on him. To the rockin' rhythm of its Oscar and Tony-nominated top 40 score and augmented with dynamic new songs for the stage musical, Footloose celebrates the wisdom of listening to young people, guiding them with a warm heart and an open mind. 

Footloose will feature musical theatre students in grades 8‐12. The younger Summer Theater students will present a musical revue based on Footloose on August 9 at 5:00 pm.

The Summer Theater program at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts is an immersive experience in the production of a fully staged musical at THE BLACK BOX. Students work with FSPA’s music, drama, and dance faculty for two weeks on staging, character development, choreography, and singing culminating in public performances of their shows at THE BLACK BOX.

For tickets and more information, visit www.FSPAonline.com or call (508) 528-8668. Follow Franklin School for the Performing Arts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. 

FSPA Summer Theater presents "Footloose" Aug 8-9

FSPA Alumni Return for “Homecoming Cabaret” at THE BLACK BOX - Jun 22

Four alumni of the Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will return to Franklin for a one-night only “Homecoming Cabaret” on Saturday, June 22 at 8:00 pm at THE BLACK BOX. Madi Asgeirsson ('16), Pat Dutton ('11), Sam Evans ('18), and Katie Gray ('17) will be joined by the ACME Rhythm Section for an evening of entertainment presented in an intimate night-club atmosphere.

Madi Asgeirsson is a rising senior at Wagner College studying musical theater, Pat Dutton graduated from Wagner College in 2015, Sam Evans will be a sophomore musical theater major at the University of Miami, and Katie Gray just graduated from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in NYC.

Entertainment for the evening is accompanied by the venue’s full bar. This special cabaret is part of the Franklin School for the Performing Arts Homecoming Weekend. On Friday night, the school will hold its annual “Prom” for past and present students and their families.

For tickets and more information, visit www.theblackboxonline.com or call 508-528-3370.

FSPA Alumni Return for “Homecoming Cabaret” at THE BLACK BOX - Jun 22

FSPA Alum Returns to Choreograph FPAC’s Cabaret

Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) alum Chris LeBeau has returned from NYC to create new choreography for the Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC)’s production of Cabaret. 

Originally from Holliston, LeBeau received his BFA in Musical Theatre from Syracuse University’s prestigious Drama Department. His national tour credits include Chicago The Musical (ensemble, understudy Amos Hart) and The Producers (ensemble, understudy Leo Bloom).

Chris LeBeau

In NYC, LeBeau performed at Lincoln Center for the 25th Anniversary celebration of Crazy for You! with choreography by Susan Stroman and took part in the Lab presentation of Babes in Arms under Randy Skinner's direction. Regionally, he has been seen in Mary Poppins, Guys and Dolls, The Producers, Cabaret, Chicago, Man of La Mancha, 42nd Street, and others.

This past fall, LeBeau was back in Franklin for FPAC’s production of Disney’s Newsies starring Broadway’s Christopher Rice (The Book of Mormon, Pretty Woman) with choreography by Chaz Wolcott (Newsies, CATS, So You Think You Can Dance). LeBeau played Davey in the production.

LeBeau brings his Fosse Dance expertise to develop new choreography for the classic musical. Kander and Ebb’s famous songs from the show include “Willkommen,” “Cabaret,” “Don’t Tell Mama” and “Two Ladies.” Cabaret will feature additional kick-line choreography by Kellie Stamp.

Cabaret runs for three performances at THE BLACK BOX June 14 and 15. For tickets and more information about FPAC’s Cabaret, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call the box office at 508-528-3370.

FSPA Dance Company to Present Concert at THE BLACK BOX - June 7

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) Dance Department will present the FSPA Dance Company Concert on Friday, June 7 at 7 pm at THE BLACK BOX. 

The FSPA Dance Company features the school's most advanced dancers who enjoy expanded performance opportunities. Working with FSPA dance faculty as well as guest teachers and choreographers to present pre-professional pieces in ballet, modern, jazz, tap, and musical theater genres, dancers can delve deeper to explore new types of dance or to pursue a broader range within a particular discipline. 

The FSPA Dance Company is under the direction of Casey Harkness Andrade and the concert will feature her choreography as well as the work of guest choreographers Lucas Melfi and Alex Cardi.

Tickets for the concert and more information on FSPA Dance Company and other programs can be found at www.FSPAonline.com or by calling 508-528-8668. You can follow FSPA on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter. 

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts is located at 38 Main Street in downtown Franklin.

FSPA Dance Company to Present Concert at THE BLACK BOX - June 7