Community Stage to Feature Local Students at AT&T Performing Arts Center

The nonprofit AT&T Performing Arts Center announced the first four groups participating in the Center's new Community Stage program, a platform for student ensembles to perform at the Center.

Students gain professional performance experience and exposure while creating free outdoor entertainment for the Center's patrons and Dallas Arts District neighborhood. The first four performances will be September 21, 22, 28 and 29 from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. prior to the 7:30 p.m. performances of Rent in the Winspear Opera House.

Fall 2016 is the pilot season and will include four student ensembles: the modern bands from Thomas Jefferson High School, Seagoville High School, Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Magnet Center and Molina High School. The program also advances the Center's mission of strengthening community by introducing patrons to the emerging young artists of the region.

"Our community's arts students are impressively talented and hard-working, and should be seen by more arts patrons," said Doug Curtis, president and CEO of the AT&T Performing Arts Center. "Community Stage offers that exposure as well as a professional performing experience."

These groups were selected from Dallas ISD schools with guidance from the district's Fine Arts administrators. As the program evolves beyond this season, Community Stage will grow to engage additional school districts, charter and private schools, community colleges and other nonprofit organizations. Groups beyond Dallas ISD will be invited to participate in a formal application process.

The first four Community Stage dates follow.

Fall 2016

• September 21: Thomas Jefferson High School's Modern Band

• September 22: Seagoville High School's Modern Band

• September 28: Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Magnet Center's Modern Band

• September 29: Molina High School's Modern Band

All performances are 6:30 - 7:15 p.m. prior to performances of Rent in the Winspear Opera House. Tickets to Rent begin at $25 and can be purchased online at www.attpac.org/broadway, by phone at 214-880-0202 or in person at the AT&T Performing Arts Center Winspear Opera House Box Office at 2403 Flora Street. The Box Office will be open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. seven days a week and before performances.

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