Pawk, Irwin, Etc. to Give New School Program Master Classes

The New School for Drama has announced a star-studded line-up of visiting artists that will take part in its Summer Music Theater Immersion Experience program as the instructors of master classes (which are not open to the public). During the three-week program, which runs June 11–27, The New School for Drama gathers Broadway talent to give a group of aspiring music theater artists the inside track from leading stars, choreographers, and casting agents. 

Private master classes will be given by previously-announced Tony Award-winning actress Kristin Chenoweth, performance coach and sports psychologist Don Greene, improv coaches Janet Coleman and David Dozer, acting coach Karen Ludwig, Tony Award-winning actress Michele Pawk, Rodgers and Hammerstein Organization President and Everything Was Possible author Ted Chapin, Tony Award-winning actor Bill Irwin, producer Berney Telsey, actor Christoper Sieber, master teacher, director and performer Kelly Robinson, actress Judy Kuhn and Tony Award-winning choreographer Wayne Cilento.

New School for Drama director Robert LuPone stated, "In its first year, the Summer Music Theater Immersion Experience was a resounding success—it was intense; it was exhilarating and, for many of the students, transformative. We're calling the program a boot camp for Broadway—this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for aspiring music theater artists to receive personalized training by some of the best talent in the business."

Press notes continue, "The program aims to give students a comprehensive understanding of the skills and techniques they will need to have successful careers in music theater. Open to undergraduate and graduate students (undergraduates may receive college credit), as well as professionals looking for more specialized training, the intensive program includes a challenging array of activities that engage students day and night, including instruction in speech, voice, acting, and dance. The school has assembled a faculty of distinguished industry professionals under the direction of New School Drama faculty member Keith Buhl and Music Theater Group producer Diane Wondisford."

Students will also be able see Broadway shows such as Les Misérables, Company, and Spring Awakening. The students will have the opportunity to speak to the casts and crews afterward. The program culminates in a showcase for the students demonstrate what they have learned.

For more information about the Summer Music Theater Immersion Experience, including how to register for the program, please email dramasummer@newschool.edu, call 212.229.5859 x2628, or visit www.drama.newschool.edu.

Photo of Bill Irwin by Mark Rupp