Franklin School For The Performing Arts Announce Openings For SummerStage, Program Begins 7/20

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts annual SummerStage musical theater program will begin on July 20 and will culminate with all-student performances of The Wiz on August 13 and 14.

SummerStage classes and rehearsals meet Monday - Thursday from 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at FSPA's facility in downtown Franklin. The performances will be staged with live music at the Thomas D. Mercer Auditorium in Franklin. Students grades 8 - 12 will present two performances of The Wiz in its entirety, while students grades 3 - 8 will perform Wiz Kidz, a junior version of the show for one performance on August 14. Although lead roles were cast following auditions held in May, dance roles, features and special ensemble assignments will be made during the first week of classes. 

The SummerStage staff includes directors Nick Paone, Raye Lynn Mercer and Tracy Lane, vocal director Hallie Wetzell and choreographers Kellie Stamp and Clyde Nantais.

According to Mercer, "This provides a great opportunity for new students to get acquainted with our school. SummerStage is always a great mix of students including those getting ready to leave for college and those who are having their very first theater experience. We look forward to hosting students from at least 14 local communities as well as three exchange students from Vienna, Austria."

Classes are running in all departments at FSPA throughout the summer. Registration is ongoing and tuition may be prorated during the summer to accommodate vacations and

late enrollment. Further information regarding summer and upcoming fall programs is available by contacting the Franklin School for the Performing Arts at 38 Main Street (508-528-8668) or by visiting www.fspaonline.com.