This post is sponsored by The Performing Arts School at bergenPAC where all kids can be a star.
Got a kid who’s a born performer or one who’s thinking about getting on stage? The Performing Arts School at bergenPAC in Englewood is more than a school. With access to the main stage at BergenPAC, The Performing Arts School at bergenPAC provides educational and performing opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. With real-world experience, students gain stage presence and work with pros to hone their skills, launching them into their future as performers. Read on for more about open auditions for shows (upcoming ones are Evita and The Addams Family) and summer camp opportunities to make it a memorable summer for your child to become engrossed in the arts—and who knows, maybe a star will be born. (Feature photo credit: BergenPAC)
Gain real world experience at The Performing Arts School at bergenPAC
Located in the former Tony Bennett recording studio next to the Theatre, The Performing Arts School at bergenPAC offers a variety of disciplines, from music to dance to the theater. Since its inception, the school has reached thousands of children through its programming, and that’s why it’s been a place for aspiring performers. What sets it apart is the unique opportunities for students to participate in live performances. And that’s been proven over and over, with alums and current students going on to perform professionally on and off Broadway, in film, or in voice-over commercials, says Becky Serico, the Director of The Performing Arts School. “It’s been amazing to see students go on to diverse opportunities beyond our stage. Currently, one of our former students is playing young Simba in The Lion King on Broadway”.
Everyone is a star at The Performing Arts School
Whether your kid’s only experience is belting out Frozen songs in the shower or a lead in a school play, anyone of any ability is welcome in the performing arts programs. “It’s our mission to provide arts to all—special needs, young adults, professionals, and beginners—it’s for everyone,” says Serico. “Students have the chance to work with major artists. For example, our dancers perform alongside the New Jersey Ballet, and our dancers and choir are opening for Jay Leno.”
The Performing Arts School prides itself on giving students accessibility to top-quality instruction. During workshops and classes, students receive “hands-on” arts training from industry professionals, and performing on BergenPAC’s stage gives them real-world experience. What’s more, for students looking to get a taste of what The Performing Arts School at bergenPAC offers, the program extends to school districts and special needs. The in-residence programming is customized to encourage students to get on stage and culminates with a performance on the main stage at BergenPAC. “These initiatives provide a safe place for students to learn and grow confidence in a positive way,” says Serrico.
Calling all kids—auditions and summer theater camp enrollments are happening now
Before the summer kicks off, your budding musical theater star may want to go to an open audition for Evita and their first fall musical, The Addams Family. Auditions are a unique way for kids, even those just starting out, to get to know what The Performing Arts School at bergenPAC is all about. It’s an opportunity that promotes growth and gains experience in performing, says Serrico. “And it’s a great chance for all kids to learn about the process with auditions, callbacks, and rehearsals,” she adds.
Thinking about signing your child up to see their potential? Summer programs, including camps, are a safe environment for kids wanting to test out what they like and what direction they want to take in getting on stage. And right now, registration is open to ages 6-12 to sign up for a Summer Musical Theatre camp, where kids can make special memories and get a top-quality performing arts education. All classes and workshops are taught by master teaching artists with professional credits, and in addition to the daily music, dance, and acting classes, there are fun electives like yoga and arts & crafts. “Plus, at the end of the camp, kids will be in performances on a big professional stage,” Serico says. And that experience is one they’ll always remember for years to come.
BergenPAC
30 Van Brunt Street, Englewood, NJ 07631
(201) 227-1030
The Performing Arts School at bergenPAC
1 Depot Square, Englewood, NJ 07631
(201) 482-8391
