Workshops at EdTA National Conference
Earlier this month, educators from across the country attending the EdTA National Conference had the opportunity to learn more about the program that is building sustainable middle school theatre programs where there previously were none--JumpStart Theatre. Two workshops were held during the annual event, one dedicated to covering the program basics and sharing stories about student and teacher experiences, and the other a hands-on demonstration of a "The JumpStart Theatre Experience" bootcamp training.
Coming up!
The first Bootcamp of the year will be held Friday, September 29, 2017. It will be led by Marty Johnson and Dee Anne Bryll, covering the basics of teaching musical theatre in a fun and interactive manner. All of the JumpStart Theatre teachers will attend, but it is also open to any interested educator, administrator, artist or professional. We can't wait to get our third year started!
Get to know John Prignano
One of our partners that makes JumpStart Theatre possible is Music Theatre International (MTI), one of the world's leading theatrical licensing agencies. MTI is particularly dedicated to educational theatre, and has created special materials to meet the needs of various types of performers and audiences, such as the Broadway Junior series we use for JumpStart Theatre. As a partner, MTI generously donates ShowKits, containing everything middle schools need to produce their show.
John Prignano is the Senior Operations Officer at MTI, and he first got involved in theatre at a young age. John helps the JumpStart Theatre schools with their license applications and production contracts, as well as answers any questions along the way. He’s made the trip from New York to Cincinnati to see the year-end Showcases of student work presented in May 2015 and 2016 and also serves on the EdTA Board of Directors.
Why do you think theatre education is important?
Theatre completely changed my life. I believe theatre education gives kids the tools they need to succeed in life, no matter what path they take.
What kind of training/education did it take to build your career?
I was a dance major in college, and was fortunate enough to take gymnastic classes as a kid. As most performers, I continued my education (dance classes every day) once I graduated and moved to NYC. Working at MTI has given me the opportunity to learn, grow and be challenged every day. Freddie Gershon (MTI Chairman/CEO) has given me opportunities that have allowed me to become the professional I am today.
If you could perform, direct, produce, etc. any show, which one would you choose and what role would you play?
My all-time favorite musical is A Chorus Line, it was one of the first musicals I was introduced to in NYC and it has always had a special place in my heart. I was fortunate enough to get to do the show on tour when I first moved to NYC. A personal dream is to dance alongside Chita Rivera.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
My proudest accomplishment so far is being a part of JumpStart Theatre.
What would we be surprised to learn about you?
I like to bake….. Cheesecake is my specialty.
Thanks to all of our partners and supporters on JumpStart Theatre:
