Broadway Theatre Project Announces 2012 Festival Schedule

Broadway Theatre Project President and Artistic Director Debra McWaters announced today that on July 27th and July 28th the University of South Florida will host this year's Festival featuring four performances, including an intimate benefit concert from the legendary Ben Vereen.

On Friday, July 27th at 3:30 pm BTP will present "A Pinch of Salt and Stir," a show designed to present the artistic skills of the faculty and the talents of the students attending this year's summer intensive. The BTP faculty come from all over the country bringing a vast array of performance acumen. From Broadway to stages around the world, and also from some of the top education institutions in the United States, these professionals bring their expertise and musical gifts together with their apprentices, for a presentation of pure entertainment.

At 7:00 PM that evening, Broadway Theatre Project presents "An Evening With Ben Vereen." This is a very special benefit concert, given that partial proceeds will help to pay for scholarships for talented students with financial hardship. Ticketholders will have the opportunity to experience Ben Vereen, actor, entertainer and master teacher, in performance accompanied by his musical director, David Loeb. For over 40 years, Ben Vereen has showcased his versatility and creativity, performing countless one-man shows not only in the United States , but also Europe, Asia and the Caribbean. He was the simultaneous winner of "Entertainer of the Year," "Rising Star" and "Song and Dance Star" awards from the American Guild of Variety Artists (AGVA). He has also earned a coveted spot in the Casino Legends Hall of Fame. In January 2012, Ben was inducted into the Theatre Hall of Fame, and in August he will be inducted into the National Museum of Dance and Hall of Fame.

For years, Ben Vereen has traversed the United States giving master classes in both acting and dance, not the least which includes his longtime association with Broadway Theatre Project. BTP marks Ben's commitment to excellence with the esteemed position of BTP Co-Artisitic Director 2012.

On Saturday, July 28th, BTP's summer session and Festival will culminate with an exciting finish featuring a grand performance of traditional musical theatre songs, experimental dance works and collaborations by the choreographers, acting and vocal coaches. The show, with a matinee at 3:00pm and an evening performance at 7:30pm, will feature talented apprentices and their teachers guided by Artistic Director Debra McWaters.