The Musical Theater programs kick off Summer Arts at Mason Online in the week of June 15-19. Young actors and vocalists, ages 7-18 will join us for a week of interactive, engaging programming online from their homes.
“While we wish we could see our students in person, we’re very excited about the opportunity to bring these new versions of our traditional summer programs, and to try out new ones, in the online environment,” said Mary Lechter, associate director of the Academy and director of Acting for Young People.
For young actors, ages 7-11, the Summer Musical Theater Showcase will take place in the morning from 9 a.m. to noon. The program will include vocal training, choreography practice, and acting techniques, all packed in three hours each day. Students will learn new songs and movement and develop their stage presence with teaching artists and coaches.
The Summer Musical Theater Intensive is designed for more experienced actors and vocalists in ages 12-18. The program will take place in the afternoon from 1-4 p.m. A traditionally performance-focused program, this Intensive will expand its course offerings to include sessions on auditions and business to bring a well-rounded knowledge of all aspects of the musical theater profession to the program’s young artists.
“Students will receive a mix of live-streamed interactive classes, individualized and group learning, and enriching video resources, all taught by the same experienced, professional faculty,” said Ms. Lechter.
Both camps are taught by esteemed teaching artists: Ahmad Matty, choreographer, and Jackie Salvador, vocal coach. Each day, the instructors will lead the group focusing on theatrical technique development for choreography, voice, and acting.
Mr. Maaty is a professional actor, dancer, choreographer, singer, and Mason School of Theater faculty. He has appeared in several theater productions in the Washington, D.C. area. He is AFYP’s musical theater director and choreographer for summer acting camps and all showcase programs. Mr. Maaty is the receipt of the BroadwayWorld’s Regional 2019 Award for Best Actor in Community Theater Production.
Ms. Salvador is a Mason School of Music alumna, who made her Off-Broadway debut with Atlantic Theatre in their production of “James and the Giant Peach.” Her stage performance including an assortment of musical theater characters. She is expected to provide the voice of “Dorothy Hess” in the upcoming fictional podcast “The 8th Light.”
Both programs are open for registration. For program details, including sample daily schedule and technology requirements, visit Musical Theater Showcase (Ages 7-11) or Musical Theater Intensive (Ages 12-18).
