Highlights from Summer Theatre Intensive at Point Park University
"I learned what a B.F.A. experience would be like in college, and it really helped me to prepare for next year. I loved having intense core classes in acting and dance each day."
Point Park University's Community and Summer Education program welcomed 16 young artists from across the United States for the Summer Theatre Intensive, held June 27 - July 10, at the Pittsburgh Playhouse.
Led by alumna Eileen Grace, award-winning director, choreographer and former Broadway performer and Rockette, students attended classes and workshops focused on acting, musical theatre and theatre production. All areas offered specialized, hands-on instruction and mentoring from the highest quality teachers and industry professionals.
"I learned how to behave in and prepare for an audition, and made new relationships," said Charlotte Gularson from Poolesville High School in Poolesville, Md. "I grew in a short amount of time and met so many great teachers."
Students also attended a behind-the-scenes tour of the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts, a Pittsburgh Cultural Trust theater.
"It was amazing being at Point Park, which is in the bustling and culture-filled area of Downtown Pittsburgh," said Aidan Edwards from St. Laurence High School in Chicago, Ill. "The city is full of life, and that helped motivate me to push myself harder, especially when you got to be in an amazing facility with breathtaking urban views."
Family and friends were invited to attend a showcase event in the PNC Theatre of the Pittsburgh Playhouse to close out the Summer Theatre Intensive.
In Their Own Words: Feedback from Students
What new skills did you learn to prepare for your future?
"I learned what a B.F.A. experience would be like in college, and it really helped me to prepare for next year. I loved having intense core classes in acting and dance each day." — Sarah Kate Barton, Montgomery Academy, Montgomery, Ala.
"I learned so much about Point Park, college auditions and singing. It was simply so much fun." — Kylie Miller, The Academy at Metropolitan School of the Arts, Fairfax Station, Va.
"I grew in the main areas of singing, dancing and acting, but I left with something so much greater. I took away the knowledge that the most important thing in an audition is bringing my authentic, confident self, and when that happens, the magic happens." — Aidan Edwards, St. Laurence High School, Chicago, Ill.
What was your favorite part about the Summer Theatre Intensive?
"My favorite part was getting to push my boundaries and learn more every day." — Marian Stephens, Hollidaysburg High School, Hollidaysburg, Pa.
"My favorite part was making new friends and being on a real college campus. The intensive as a whole taught me so much and really opened my eyes. It was so much fun!" — Adele Baldina, Leesville Road High School, Raleigh, N.C.
What was it like coming to Downtown Pittsburgh and being on a college campus?
"The independence that we had was so beneficial and really allowed our group to get close with each other. We were treated like college students, and I now feel comfortable as I prepare for college." — Faith Walh, Nichols School, Buffalo, N.Y.
"I'm in love with Pittsburgh, and I didn't think I would be. I love the campus and facilities available to me." — Jaelynn Ricks, New Orleans Center for the Creative Arts, New Orleans, La.