WELCOME PACKET 2014/2015

Transcription

1 2014/2015 WELCOME PACKET Welcome to the Charleston Performing Arts Center! You have chosen the most comprehensive musical theatre training in the state of South Carolina.

2 welcome! A message from Kirk Sprinkles Artistic Director & Program Director Charleston Performing Arts Center Welcome to the Charleston Performing Arts Center! We are thrilled to open the very first performing arts conservatory in the state of South Carolina, with the finest pre-professional training for adults and teens. Our curriculum, designed in collaboration with some of the finest and most renowned educators, directors, playwrights, and industry professionals from New York City to Los Angeles, is like no other. We are proud that we make available some of the best college-level conservatory training to the general public. C-PAC s mission is to inspire, invigorate and educate through artistic excellence in the performing arts. We strive to provide deep and meaningful education to those who want to pursue professional careers in musical theatre. I hope you will join us "after class" at one of our main stage performances and become part of the C-PAC family. Thank you for helping us to inspire, invigorate and educate! Charleston Performing Arts Center rev. 10/14 pg. 2 of 14

3 Bridging Charleston to broadway! Charleston Performing Art Center s mission is simple, yet complex: To inspire, invigorate, and educate through artistic excellence in the performing arts. C-PAC was founded by Broadway veteran Kirk Sprinkles and writer Scott Pfeiffer, the duo behind the successful dance musicals that have been delighting Charleston audiences, including this year s sold out Piccolo Spoleto hit, THE CHARLESTON. Kirk and Scott are known for their entertaining and immersive professional cabaret-style performances that incorporate Kirk s choreography and Scott s scripts. Having both performed with professional theatre companies, and having grown up on stages on different coasts, Kirk and Scott decided that they could provide a level of musical theatre training that is currently unavailable in Charleston. Established in February, our board of directors is committed to achieving results and ensuring the greatest impact on our students and the Charleston arts community. As a student of the arts, you have many choices here in Charleston. We provide something completely different. Here s what you can expect from C- PAC: WORLD-CLASS CONSERVATORY EDUCATION focused on pre-professional musical theatre technique; including a full curriculum for teens and adults in acting, voice, and dance conceived and organized by C-PAC co-founders under the supervision of renowned working professionals. SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS constructed to provide arts education and pre-professional training to students who otherwise are unable to afford tuition; including programs designed to support technical theatre skills education as part of the end-of-semester student productions. All C-PAC students will receive a well-rounded understanding of the breadth of opportunities in the performing arts industry. YEAR-ROUND MASTER CLASS SERIES & INTENSIVE PROGRAMS in Charleston and New York City that inspire students while being coached by Broadway directors, choreographers, and technicians who will enhance their education and skill. BROADWAY FACULTY that includes Caitlin Carter, Stephanie Samaras, Mary Ann Lamb, Patrick DeGennaro, Lyn Philistine, Christopher Sutton, Cherie Bower, Mary Carpenter, and Kurt Domoney. BROADWAY FOR KIDS a program connecting Broadway stars who rose from challenging living environments with underserved local youth in similar circumstances. This motivating production will inspire students to achieve success by staying focused on their passion, and provide a means of envisioning a way to achieve a life outside of their current situation. EXCEPTIONAL & ENTERTAINING PERFORMANCES held in our performance venue that includes cabaret-style floorshows and original dance musicals, standard or concert versions of traditional musicals, and late-night cabarets. This venue provides opportunities for Conservatory students to perform alongside Broadway guest artists, and enable us to open our doors to local emerging artists who struggle to find affordable venues to showcase their talent. Charleston Performing Arts Center rev. 10/14 pg. 3 of 14

4 Calendar overview & details Location and Contact Information Charleston Performing Arts Center Mailing address: 873 Folly Road P.O. Box Charleston, SC Charleston, SC (843) FACULTY DIRECTORY Program Director Kirk Sprinkles Acting Instructor Scott Pfeiffer Vocal Instructor Andrea Roule Dance Captain Tiffany West Vocal Director Stephanie Samaras Acting Director Don Eitner Artistic Director Hon. Caitlin Carter CONSERVATORY HOURS C-PAC office hours Monday through Tuesday 4:00pm 9:30pm Monday through Wednesday 11:00am-6:00pm Wednesday 4:00pm 7:30pm Thursday through Saturday: 11:00am-5:00pm Thursday 4:00pm 5:30pm Sunday: CLOSED Friday-Sunday CLOSED CONSERVATORY COURSE SCHEDULE: Day Time Course Student Group Instructor Monday 5:00pm 6:30pm Private Vocal Coaching As Scheduled Roule 6:30pm 7:30pm Musical Theatre History All Pfeiffer 7:30pm 9:30pm Acting All Pfeiffer Tuesday 5:00pm 6:30pm Private Vocal Coaching As Schedule Roule 6:30pm 8:00pm Vocal Performance All Sprinkles / Roule 8:00pm 9:00pm Theatre Jazz All Sprinkles 9:00pm 9:30pm Theatre Tap All Sprinkles Wednesday 5:30pm 7:00pm Dance Conditioning All, Public Class Sprinkles Charleston Performing Arts Center rev. 10/14 pg. 4 of 14

5 Calendar overview & details 2014 October Monday 10/27 Open House / Auditions 6:00pm 9:00pm Tuesday 10/28 Open House / Auditions 6:00pm 9:00pm November Monday 11/ Conservatory Year Begins Thursday 11/27 CLOSED for Thanksgiving Monday, 12/22 through Thursday, 01/01/15 December CLOSED for Winter Break Charleston Performing Arts Center rev. 10/14 pg. 5 of 14

6 Calendar overview & details 2015 Friday, 01/02 through Wednesday, 01/07 January Showcase Rehearsals Times to be announced Thursday 01/08 Friday 01/09 Saturday 01/10 Monday, 01/12 through Friday, 01/16 Monday, 03/30 through Friday, 04/04 Performer Call Time Showcase Production Performer Call Time Showcase Production Performer Call Time Showcase Production CLOSED for Faculty Planning February If critical dates arise, they will be communicated in advance. March CLOSED for Spring Break April 7:00pm 8:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm If critical dates arise, they will be communicated in advance. may Saturday, 05/27 through Wednesday, 05/27 Showcase Rehearsals Times to be announced Wednesday 05/ Conservatory Year Ends Thursday 05/28 Friday 05/29 Saturday 05/30 Performer Call Time Showcase Production Performer Call Time Showcase Production Performer Call Time Showcase Production 7:00pm 8:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm Charleston Performing Arts Center rev. 10/14 pg. 6 of 14

7 Inspiration & Purpose A Message from Caitlin Carter Artistic Director Honorarious Charleston Performing Arts Center How wonderful that Kirk Sprinkles and Scott Pfeiffer have returned to Charleston to create a new professional Conservatory of The Performing Arts that will serve and enrich the cultural and economic prosperity of the people of Charleston. Performing arts schools not only teach students who have a great desire to learn, but influence the larger community in providing a better appreciation for the arts at a professional level. Not only will the students benefit from such a wonderful training experience, but the community will share, enjoy and take great pride in these young artists as they watch them grow into professional performers. John F. Kennedy once said, The life of the arts, far from being an interruption, a distraction in the life of the nation, is very close to the center of a nation s purpose and it is the test of the quality of a nation s civilization. Charleston is a quality city with a rich cultural history. Kirk and Scott are adding to that history today by giving its young people a solid and inspirational education into the world of music, dance and drama, and giving the whole city a wonderful new arts organization that will benefit the community for years to come. Charleston Performing Arts Center rev. 10/14 pg. 7 of 14

8 Policies & Procedures The following policies and procedures are established to ensure a fair and equitable learning environment, uphold consistent and ethical business practices, and ensure that all students (and parents of teen students) understand the expectations of them while studying at Charleston Performing Arts Center. They are listed in alphabetical order. ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY Students are required to attend all classes they are assigned, not just those pertaining to their perceived strengths. Attendance is taken at the start of each class. Attendance is tracked within our student database software. Students are to be fully prepared for class before attendance is taken. This includes changing into proper attire, appropriate footwear, materials in hand, and waiting quietly for the instructor to begin. Tardy students must quickly and quietly prepare themselves (attire, footwear, hair, materials, etc.) and take their place in class without disrupting the instructor or other students. Tardy students are to speak with the instructor after class to explain the nature of their tardiness. Three tardies equals one absence Two absences equal final written warning Three total absences equal dismissal from program If a student misses more than 3 classes in a semester, the instructor reserves the right to remove the student from the showcase and/or the program. If a student misses any classes during the last 4 weeks of the semester, the instructor reserves the right to remove the student from the showcase. Showcase rehearsals and performances are mandatory. No student will be excused from any rehearsal or performance, unless a medical emergency deems their attendance impossible. If for some reason the student has to miss a class due to illness or other obligation, they are to contact their instructor directly via or the C-PAC office phone. Refunds/credits will not be given for any type of absence, medical or otherwise. Many classes are cumulative. If a student misses a class, the instructor may attempt to catch-up that student the next class, however, it is up to the student to find out what is missed. If a class is cancelled for any reason due to the instructor s discretion, he/she will try to arrange a make-up class. Reimbursements are not provided for cancelled classes. ATTIRE & MATERIALS For safety reasons, NO flip flops, sandals, Uggs, or Crocs are allowed in any Conservatory class. No exceptions! Students may be asked to leave class if they do not have appropriate attire. Options by class are as described: Theatre Jazz: Black Jazz Pants, Black Sweat Pants or Black Shorts with a Leotard (any color), or fitted tee shirt with no embellishment, writing or logos. Students are welcome to wear a leotard and tights. Dance Sneakers or Jazz Shoes are suggested. Hair must be pulled back and securely placed out of face. Dance Conditioning: Leotard (any color), tights, and ballet slippers. Male students are to wear black tights and tee shirts (fitted with no writing). Hair must be pulled back and securely placed out of face. Theatre Tap: Black Jazz Pants, Black Sweat Pants or Black shorts with a Leotard (any color), or Charleston Performing Arts Center rev. 10/14 pg. 8 of 14

9 Policies & Procedures tee shirt (fitted with no writing). Students are also welcome to wear a Leotard and Tights. Tap Shoes are required. Acting: Loose comfortable clothing, comfortable shoes for acting exercises; students may discuss the need for costume, shoe, and prop specifics with their instructor; however, the instructor reserves the right to either approve or deny the request. Voice, Musical Theatre History: Loose comfortable clothing, comfortable shoes. Scripts, sheet music, music tracks, materials, costumes, and/or props provided to any student are the property of Charleston Performing Arts Center and must be returned to the appropriate instructor as defined by the instructor. Students will be charged for items not returned, or returned damaged. Attitude Students accepted into C-PAC are seeking to develop skills for a professional theatrical career. Attitude is critical to professional success. Learning and growing as a performer is hard work, but is also fun and rewarding. Students will be given direction and expected to execute it consistently, as well as, be encouraged to take risks, step outside of comfort zones, and participate in exercises and movement that will push their limits. Instructors will provide both positive and constructive feedback, which is intended to foster a student s growth. Being prepared to hear and welcome that feedback and make thoughtful corrections is the mark of a true professional. Attitude also translates to preparing and/or practicing on ones own time, whether or not given a definite assignment. AUDITION PROCESS We accept a limited number of students each semester in order to provide quality educational control, ensuring the instruction you receive permits individual focus. The audition process occurs twice a year, for the fall and spring semesters. For continuing students, there will be a pre-registration time period to ensure those currently enrolled a spot in the program for the upcoming semester. After the pre-registration period, the remaining spaces will be available to the public. The program operates on a semester basis. Our professionalism standards begin with the audition process. Anyone interested in auditioning, must prepare as per our standards outlined on our website. Communication Professional theatrical and conservatory class etiquette will be taught to all students, regardless of prior experience. This includes rehearsal and backstage etiquette, when and when not to ask questions, what level of involvement a student has in the creative process, and how to capitalize on the notes process. The student-instructor relationship is of utmost importance. Each student should feel comfortable speaking with their instructor about their performance and participation outside of class. Instructors will provide out of class times that students may sign up for one-on-one conversations. Students are encouraged to resolve conflicts amongst each other, or on their own behalf. In the event that a student feels they need mediatory support, they should consult with their class instructor, the program director, or the company CEO. DISCIPLINE The Charleston Performing Arts Center is an intensive performing arts program where focus, self-discipline, concentration and working with others are required. Disruption and inappropriate behavior that inhibits the learning or work of others, or deters the focus of the class, will be dealt with on an individual instructor basis. Disruptive behavior will be addressed immediately either individually or within a group environment. If the behavior continues, or is routine of nature, the student will progress to a formal warning process. The first warning will be a verbal one to the student, expressed as a formal verbal warning. Upon second warning, the student will receive a Written Warning document to sign. On the third warning, the student will be asked to leave the program. This is standard practice in professional theatre and we consider it to be a crucial part of the conservatory training experience. Charleston Performing Arts Center rev. 10/14 pg. 9 of 14

10 Policies & Procedures Discrimination & HARASSMENT POLICY It is the policy of both the Conservatory and the Charleston Performing Arts Center that no employee or student should be subjected to any form of discrimination and/or harassment because of that person s race, color, age, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual preference, or disability (visible or not). If an individual student or instructor has witnessed discrimination and/or harassment, or has been the subject of harassment, the witness should report the incident immediately to the Program Director. C-PAC admits students of any race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin. We pride ourselves or being a diverse and inclusive environment that fosters growth in every student. EMERGENCIES All students will be briefed on C-PAC s emergency evacuation plan, including location and use of fire extinguishers, flashlights, evacuation gathering place; and participate in random emergency evacuation drills. An on-site First Aid kit is available to students in the event of a minor injury. Students are required to provide emergency contact information that will be retained in the C-PAC office in the event of a major medical emergency. In case of fire, students are to follow all faculty instructions and leave the premises from the nearest exit when directed. There are two exits at the front of the building (facing Folly Road) and the one exit at the rear. Instructors will ensure all students are accounted for during drills and/or actual emergencies before excusing any student. In some emergencies, students may have to leave personal belongings behind. C-PAC is not responsible for damage or loss of these items. In case of tornado or hurricane, students and faculty will meet in the theatre s back hallway and follow instructions. In case of power outage, students will meet in the theatre and wait for further instructions. FACEBOOK PRIVATE PAGE Students will be invited to join the C-PAC Conservatory Facebook page. This private group page is available to and viewable only by C-PAC students and faculty. This page is used as a means of communication, and posts will keep students up-to-date on information, upcoming programs, events, etc. The page is not a means to communicate tardiness, sickness, or other messages that should be personally delivered to a faculty member. Hygiene The nature of theatre includes working closely with others under physically stressful and demanding situations. Students are to follow personal hygiene practices that include regular bathing/showering, use of antiperspirants/ deodorants, and both oral and hair care. If a student s hygiene is lacking, a faculty member will conduct a personal conversation with the student. INCLEMENT WEATHER C-PAC follows the City of Charleston s inclement weather closing schedule for Charleston County Public Schools as announced by local media. notifications will be sent if classes are canceled. Cancellations will also be posted to the private Facebook page. Faculty will attempt to provide make up classes when they are cancelled due to inclement weather. Significant and impactful weather events may hinder this from happening. Liability Waiver C-PAC requires that each student (or parent of under-age students) complete and submit a Release of Liability Waiver. This waiver is retained in the students file. The Liability Waiver is completed at the time of registration. A student will not be permitted into any class without having this paperwork on file. Charleston Performing Arts Center rev. 10/14 pg. 10 of 14

11 Policies & Procedures PARKING Parking space is limited. Students may use the parking lot during their class time only. C-PAC is not responsible for theft, damage, or vandalism of any vehicle parked in the parking lot. When exiting the parking lot, all vehicles must exit via RIGHT TURN ONLY as dictated by the Town of James Island. During Showcase performances, students are not allowed to park in the provided parking lot. The parking lot will be reserved for ticket holders on a first-come-first-served basis. Students are not allowed to park in the parking lot on Wednesday evenings when performances are scheduled. Alternative parking locations will be communicated in advance. PERSONAL BELONGINGS / LOST & FOUND Students may keep belongings under the studio room bench or in a designated area of the theatre during their scheduled class. Phones or electronic devices must be completely muted during class, unless preapproved by instructor. All personal belongings must be taken from the building at the end of class time. Personal belongings left behind will be placed in a Lost & Found bin. The Lost & Found bin contents will donated or thrown out at the end of each month. Students are encouraged to frequently check the Lost & Found bin for left behind items. Students are advised to keep valuables secured with their backpack, handbag, or tote. C-PAC is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or unclaimed property. In the event of proven theft, the perpetrating student will be expelled. PICK UP & DROP OFF Students are to be picked up and/or dropped off in the parking lot at the rear of the building. BE AWARE: the driveway entry to the rear parking lot is extremely narrow. Entering vehicles will have the right of way. Curb-side pick up or drop off is not allowed on Folly Road. Students are not to stand in the building front waiting for pick up. When exiting the parking lot, all vehicles must exit via RIGHT TURN ONLY as dictated by the Town of James Island. This ensures that Folly Road traffic does not congest for vehicles waiting to enter the parking lot while exiting vehicles wait to turn left. Safety & SECURITY C-PAC faculty members will make every attempt to ensure students are provided a safe a secure place of education. This includes providing proper indoor and outdoor lighting, adequate heating and cooling systems, working restrooms, and conducive learning environments. Students are encourage to remain quietly inside the building if they are awaiting pick up. At the end of each night, faculty will ensure that all students are safely out of the building and have a means to return home. A faculty member will remain onsite for up to 10 minutes after the end of the conservatory day. Late pick up fees will be assessed after 10 minutes when an instructor s end-of-day departure is hindered. SCHOLARSHIPS Scholarships are funded by individuals and foundations within the community. Scholarships are awarded only when funding is available. Student requesting a scholarship must fill out a Scholarship Request Form and submit it at their audition. The Program Director reviews the forms to determine award amount and availability. If accepted into C-PAC, scholarship students will be told their awarded funding before the first day of the semester. If funding is not available and the student is accepted into the program, the student may choose to withdraw before classes begin, or to pay tuition. If the student is unable to pay the tuition, the student will not be able to participate in the program. Scholarships are awarded each semester, therefore Charleston Performing Arts Center rev. 10/14 pg. 11 of 14

12 Policies & Procedures a new Scholarship Request Form must be completed every semester. Scholarship students are required to attend all classes during the semester. If a scholarship student misses more than two classes, they will be asked to forfeit their scholarship money and be required to pay the remaining tuition in full. If they are unable to pay, they will be required to withdraw from the program. SHOWCASE PERFORMANCES All conservatory students are required to participate in the end-of-semester Showcase. Besides performing, students will be asked to fulfill minor front of house and back stage crew/technical roles during performances. This will enable students to engage in a well-rounded theatrical training experience. For any and all performances there is no costuming fee. At most, a personal clothing item cost may be incurred as a result of participation in a showcase. The director of each performance will dictate costuming and a best effort will be made to take advantage of student/parent existing wardrobe. Smoking C-PAC is a smoke free environment. Smoking is not prohibited anywhere on the premises. SNACKS & DRINKS No food, drink, gum, or candy is allowed in any studio class. Snacks are to be eaten outside before classes begin. Students are to throw trash and recyclables in proper receptacles. A purified water dispenser is provided on premises. Students are encouraged to bring their own water container. ONLY WATER is allowed in studio classes. TUITION Tuition is paid via an automatic monthly draft from the credit or debit card of your choice. Upon registration, the first month s tuition is due and the auto draft must be completed. Tuition is automatically drafted on the first of every month thereafter. If your financial institution declines payment, a fee of $10.00 will be charged for a five day grace period until tuition is paid in full. After five days, a $35.00 penalty is assessed and the student may not attend class until full payment is received. Reimbursements are not provided for any student whose attendance or behavior record requires their expulsion. Tuition is not prorated for any reason. Tuition includes the following: 7.5 hours of group class instruction each week, and 15 minutes of private vocal coaching sessions each week. Students will provide three time slot options. The class instructor will determine the final time slot placement. This time remains consistent each week. Students will receive one-on-one coaching to rehearse assigned vocal selections for presentation in the Vocal Performance class. Group classes include: Acting: Students will learn acting principals taught in 6 steps as developed by Don Eitner, actor, director, and founder of The Melrose Theatre in Los Angeles. Theatre games, homework exercises, and in-class presentations instill freedom, focus, discipline, and skill practice. Monologue and scene work enable students to collaborate and work on their performing approach. This course also includes discussions and lectures on theatrical terminology, rehearsal and performance etiquette, and the varied jobs within a professional theatrical career, both on stage and off. Musical Theatre History: Students will learn the history of American musical theatre, from its roots in pantomime and melodrama of the late 1700s to the current modern American megamusical. This course includes a review of the great masters of American musical theatre from composers, lyricists, and book writers; along with a review of the stars of Broadway s past up to the creators and stars of today s mega-musicals. Students will dissect important musical theatre works to identify the social, political, satirical, and straight-forward themes, found in character Charleston Performing Arts Center rev. 10/14 pg. 12 of 14

13 Policies & Procedures development, dialogue, libretto, and choreography. Vocal Performance: During this course, also known as Musical Theatre, Students will be assigned song selections. They will work on proper breathing and phrasing, and will learn how to interpret the lyrics to determine the broader story being told. Students will connect their vocal skills and their acting skills to deliver a performance that is honest, whether through a charm song, a dramatic ballad, or show stopping character belt piece. Theatre Jazz: This course is based on the principles and choreographic stylings of Jack Cole, Father of Theatre Jazz, Jerome Robbins, Michael Bennett, Bob Fosse, and Michael Kidd. This course includes a historical review of these choreographers/directors, and the impact their style has had on American Musical Theatre. Students will learn original choreography created by these iconic masters. Also included is a review of current Broadway choreographer/directors, such as Ann Reinking, Susan Stroman, Kathleen Marshall, Jerry Mitchell, and Linda Haberman. Theatre Tap: This course uses the tap barre syllabus created by Henry LeTang, American tap s founding father. Students will learn to tap dance using syncopated rhythm, tap technique, and how to use their feet as a percussive instrument. Dance Conditioning: This course focuses on these main components: body alignment, core strengthening, and the deconstruction of movement into technical basics that all student levels will understand. Everyone learns! The focus on body alignment is taught though classical ballet using a syllabus created by Mary Carpenter, ballet faculty at Barnard College and The New School in New York City. Students will learn technique, terminology and discipline essential in musical theatre. This class includes barre and floor work, and dance combinations. This class is also open to the public. VISITORS & Waiting Area All classes are closed to parents and other family members during the semester. Occasionally, the conservatory faculty may have observers visit a classroom, but these visits will be monitored and kept to a minimum. We do not offer a lobby or waiting area. This is a working facility and all areas are used for productive theatrical work purposes. WITHDRAWAL / CANCELLATION Our withdrawal, or drop period is within the first two weeks of classes. After this period, the student is responsible for the entire semester, unless a medical emergency prohibits the student from continuing. In the event of a medical emergency, the student must provide a physician s note excusing his/her participation. Withdrawal/Cancellation reimbursements will be given for the remaining balance as follows: 80% for medical reasons; 50% for other reasons. A physician s note must be presented for medical reasons. Charleston Performing Arts Center rev. 10/14 pg. 13 of 14

14 Musical theatre is the ultimate collaboration. In the best of all possible worlds, it starts from the top, when you pick people who can fulfill a creative obligation using their own particular talent. If you pick the right people, not just on stage, but behind the scenes, the boundaries of who does what move in and out of each other and wonderful things begin to happen. Donna McKechnie Best Actress Tony Award Winner, for Cassie in A Chorus Line Charleston Performing Arts Center rev. 10/14 pg. 14 of 14