Collaborative School of the Arts kicks off fall with Broadway experiences, theatre education, and student performances

The fall season is underway at Proctors Collaborative, and the Collaborative School of the Arts is bringing students closer to the magic of live theatre through hands-on learning, professional instruction, and opportunities to experience the performing arts. From a Broadway Master Class inspired by “BOOP! The Musical” to the start of a new season for the Musical Theatre Academy at Proctors, students across the Capital Region are discovering new ways to explore their creativity and develop their skills.

The season began with an opportunity for aspiring performers to experience a taste of Broadway through a “BOOP!” Master Class taught by National Tour dance captain Annalise Northway. Inspired by the musical featuring the iconic Betty Boop, the class offered students an opportunity to explore musical theatre dance and learn in a setting connected to a professional Broadway production. The next Master Class will feature the opportunity to improve vocals with a cast member from the National Tour of “The Notebook” Saturday, Dec. 5. Learn more about the Broadway Master Class series.

The excitement continues on the third floor, where the Musical Theatre Academy at Proctors has begun its new school year. The program provides a space for young performers to develop their abilities in acting, singing, and dancing while working collaboratively with fellow students as well as expanding to outside of the Capital Region (they recently invited students from SUNY Purchase to join them). For returning students, the start of the season marks another opportunity to grow as performers. For newcomers, it offers an introduction to musical theatre in an environment that encourages creativity, teamwork, and self-expression. Learn more about the Musical Theatre Academy at Proctors.

Beyond the classroom, the Collaborative School of the Arts is also welcoming students back into the theatre through its student matinee program. The season’s student matinees began at Capital Repertory Theatre with Ken Tingley’s “The Last American Newspaper,” introducing students to a story rooted in the changing landscape of American journalism. The production provided an opportunity for young audiences to consider the importance of local news, the role of journalists in their communities, and the challenges facing the newspaper industry. Learn more about student matinees at Proctors, theREP, and Universal Preservation Hall.

Student matinees offer more than a traditional field trip. By experiencing professional productions, students can connect what they learn in the classroom with stories unfolding onstage, opening the door to conversations about history, culture, current events, and the world around them.

With the fall season underway, the Collaborative School of the Arts continues to offer opportunities for students of different ages and experience levels to get involved. Upcoming classes and educational programs will provide additional ways for young artists to explore their interests, learn new skills, and connect with the performing arts.