There are several reasons to be impressed with In Tandem’s Summer Conservatory program. The one-month course for students ages 11-15 is taught by Dr. Shannon Sloan-Spice. She’s a talented local theatre professional who studied at the British American Drama Academy. The musical director of the program is Amy Denison, who has been a professional musical talent for 40 years.
The instructors have impressive credentials, but the range of topics covered in the intensive course sounds dazzling in its own way. In addition to performance, the course covers just about every other aspect of theatre. According to the press release, “students will participate in all aspects of theatre; set-building, props, costumes, lights and sound design.” So a lot of backstage stuff is covered, but what I find to be extremely cool about this program is that students are also learning the business side from this summer course. It also covers marketing, publicity, house management and box office operations. This is a staggeringly big array of stuff to cover for kinds who haven’t yet graduated from high school. The program culminates in a production of the kid’s version of the musical Into the Woods. Sounds like a really great opportunity.
In Tandem’s Summer Conservatory runs from July 13-Aug. 12. The three week program will run Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. The maximum class size is 50 students. Cost for the entire conservatory is $500 per student. Enrollment deadline is July 1. To enroll or receive more information, call 414-271-1371.
