The first months of 2013 have been very rewarding, as I have had several opportunities to work with wonderfully talented young performers. I spoke this past weekend at the Self Employment In the Arts Conference in Naperville, Illinois. I met and presented to many students in all areas of the arts, including performing arts, visual arts, film arts and literary arts. These students came to the Conference from colleges and universities across the midwest. Interacting with these talented, conscientious, smart, innovative and determined students gave me great hope for the future of the Arts.
I have also had the pleasure of working with another group of students. I am Musical Director for a production of “The Wiz” at Fenwick High School in the Oak Park neighborhood of Chicago. The caliber of talent at Fenwick is absolutely fantastic. Several of the students are “triple threats,” singing, dancing and acting superbly. A few of the “triple threat” students play an instrument to boot! They are incredible!
I am placing the bar quite high, bringing natural student talents to bear to develop a polished, professional, top-notch musical production. I have professional level expectations and I believe that these students are up to it! 🙂
We will utilize a Pit Orchestra made up of professional Chicago area musicians, under the baton of Andrew Thompson. The costume, set and lighting designers are all first rate. Producer Roger Finnell, Director John Paulett and Choreographer Shannon Welling are all excellent and great to work with. I am really enjoying my time with the Fenwick High School Black Friar’s Guild production of “The Wiz.”
If you’re looking for a great night of theater, come out and see this delightful production of “The Wiz.”
Show Dates:
Fridays, March 15 and 22; Saturdays, March 16 and 23; Sunday, March 17
Tickets $14-$20 http://www.ticketpeak.com/fenwickhs
To my great delight, all of these students ascribe to the “Three Simple Rules for Life.” Keep up the good work guys! You’re the Best!!!
The Music Business Expert Blog, By Greta Pope 