WELCOME
to the
 
 


CHECK OUT WHAT  STUDENTS, PARENTS, AND GUEST ARTISTS

HAVE TO SAY ABOUT

"THEATRE ARTS CENTER"

 

"It’s always nice to be appreciated but even better when it’s in writing...for thousands of New Yorkers to see! That’s why we’re excited to let you know that Theatre Arts Center's Musical Theater and Dance Camp (Teens AND Youth) was recently highlighted by Time Out New York Kids.  (2011)"
Kind Regards,

Your Friends at TIME OUT NEW YORK KIDS

 

I just wanted to let you know how wonderful I think you and your staff are.  From the first day at orientation to the last standing ovation, your work with the children (and us parents) has been nothing but pleasant and professional and perfect.  I believe Nicholas had an extraordinary experience, one that may put him confidently in the direction of his dreams, whatever they may be.  (I do believe the ability to perform in front of an audience can help with a multitude of career paths.)  The hard work and focus, plus the fun and new friends he acquired, gave him an incredible opportunity to learn about dedication and passion at such a young age.  After seeing the show twice, this morning I am sad that I can't see it a third time.  Our telephone has been ringing nonstop with friends and family members expressing their gratitude and praise for such an impressive show.  Thanks to you and your incredible staff, a program such as this exists, and your visions for what is possible with our children is inspiring. This weekend, for me, was priceless.  Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.

Respectfully,

Arlyne D. (2010)

 PS.  After 20 yrs. in product development in the garment industry, I am baffled on how you fit SO MANY beautiful costumes in the costume fee!


As a director/ choreographer, you strive to work with a company that will inspire your creativity and artistic growth.  TAC is that place. Theatre Arts Center selects student with passion, ability, and dedication who want to experience what working professionals do on a daily basis. Not only do these students develop applicable skills to succeed in a competitive field, but TAC nurtures and supports their process along the way. Every year,  I see the emerging artist of the future of this industry.

Robbie Roby
Dance Captain
B'Way Billy Elliot, Hairspray, Legally Blonde

I'm looking forward to seeing what you have planned for next Summer.  My daughter not only had an incredible learning experience with TAC last summer -- but also a fabulous time. She very much wants to attend this summer.   Having seen your level of discipline and professionalism, plus how much my daughter matured, and her talent developed under your tutelage, I will definitely allow her to audition.

 Dennis Size,

EMMY Award Winning TV Designer

My son is a natural clown, so I assumed he would enjoy TAC's theater program. What really pleased me was my son's efforts to concentrate on his dancing and other performance requirements, a discipline that always seemed to elude him. He developed focus and concentration while learning things he loved to do. I think any parent would welcome these "side effects" of the TAC program.

 

David Paterson

Award Winning Film Writer/Producer

 The Bridge To Terabithia

Another wonderful year.  She has LOVED this year, more than the other three--which is hard to believe given how much she has loved it before.  The Seniors closeness is really a credit to TAC.  It only gets better and better--the show was fabulous, the transitions were amazing, the costumes were the best ever.  She wishes it could go on for another four weeks!

Candace C.
Several Year Alumni Mom

Thanks for making by first year at TAC so enjoyable!  WOW!  I really have never done a summer program quite like this one!  It takes a lot of hard work, but is soooo much fun throughout the whole process.  I hope all went well with Cabaret too.  I would love to do it next year too.

Tia C.
Senior Co. 2009 & 2010

Thanks so much for organizing such a wonderful program for our children.  But most of all, thank you for being so kind and encouraging.  She mentioned how one day you sat at the lunch table with the new senior kids for a while just to see how they were doing and how much that meant to her.  Thanks for being that kind of person.  Wishing you all the best in the future.

Gigi C.
Senior Co. 2009 & 2010 Mom

Thanks so much for a wonderful experience this summer at camp. This was my daughter's first time at the camp. She enjoyed your musical theater classes so much, that she wanted to try out your camp. The shows that were put together were amazing. It was hard to believe you and the rest of the staff along with the kids, were able to put together such great performances in such a very short period of time. Besides having the opportunity to gain theater experience; as an added bonus my daughter made a lot of nice new friends this summer. She looks forward to next summer, along with one of my other daughters, who's already chosen her audition piece for the camp. We look forward to seeing you in September for the start of the girls seven, count'em, seven, classes this season.   Thanks again for a great summer,

                                          Randi R.
Bucks County Mom

I was very impressed with the production of THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE, JR. I saw at Theatre Arts Center (summer '06).  Having started in educational, summer and youth theatre myself, I am well aware of the importance and value of introducing young people to the art of live theatre.  I would have been happy to see a group of young adults having a good time and falling in love with the art form.  They did all that -- but they also put on a darn good show, that the audience enjoyed watching as much as the cast enjoyed performing.  As an author, I was gratified to see that.  And who knows?  One of those young actors might end up creating (or starring in!) a Tony Award-winning musical one day; I started where they did, and it was the impetus for my career on Broadway.

 Dick Scanlan
Tony Award Nominee
Book & New Lyrics
Thoroughly Modern Millie

While my 17-year old son has been in many theater camps in the Long Island / New York City area, never has he never had such a memorable experience as last summer  with Theatre Arts Center.  He has maintained close ties with many of the wonderful friends he made in the program -- I believe this is because at Theatre Arts Center he worked harder, with more professional expectations than he ever has, and the kids shared an enormous pride in their accomplishments together.  The staff is extraordinary, and I recommend this program with pleasure.

 

Kim Oler
Richard Rodgers &
Emmy Award Winner

 

THANKS!  William has become a huge TAC fan.  He keeps in contact with all his friends.  Thank you so much for allowing him to visit.  He absolutely loves TAC…and so do I!

All the very best and see you next summer.

Nancy L.

Teen Acting Ensemble Mom

 

I truly want you to know, the tremendous enrichment, and importance
that TAC has had in 'both my daughters'  lives . For Chloe: simply put, she has told me that when she is at school during the day,
if she thinks about how later, she has a class at TAC, it makes her feel so happy.  A good deal of her life is her life at TAC, and I think
it is where she has her favorite moments.

 

Cathy B.

Bucks County Mom

 

You've taught me in so so much. I've learned over the course of four weeks, that there so much more talent inside of me that was just waiting to be embraced. You and your phenomenal staff showed me how to do so, and how to be proud of it. I've learned that in addition to dancing, I also have a special place in my heart for acting. Before I never had even considered it. It didn't seem like it was my place. Now, I know how much fun it could be and the effect it has on people.  I'm hoping to someday be on Broadway. I don't care if I were to  be a swing, or even an understudy. You taught me about a new place which I am now confident to call my new home - musical theatre. Thank you Robert, for everything.


Sincerely,
Polina P.
Junior Co. 2010

Because of your amazing program Christy has developed such solid friendships with so many kids that she met at your theatre program.  Also, she was 1 out of 20 students selected to attend Pace University's drama program (with a partial scholarship) so thank you and your staff for playing a major part in her education.

 

Sincerely,

Camille

 

This is Claire, Ayana's mom...writing to say thank you for the wonderful experience in this theatrical forum for my child. You and the rest of the staff have really opened Ayana's eyes to the acting and performing. She is still reeling from the work, the groups accomplishments and the friends she has made. You all put together quite the troop of players; many look like they will be life long friends. Well life long in kid terms at the very least. (smile).

 

Teen Acting Ensemble / NYC
2007 & 2008

Theatre Arts Center has been of great help to MTI in the development of MOBY DICK, The Musical and THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE Junior. The talent and expertise they bring to the process has been extremely helpful in the development of these titles.  We look forward to working with them on JUST SO this summer ('07).  

[TAC has been granted the rights to premier BEAUTY & THE BEAST JR in 2008.]

John Prignano
Senior Operations Officer
Music Theatre International

 

 

I just wanted to say that I hope that Jackie and Lena lived up to your expectations,

because Theatre Arts Center certainly lived up to ours. What an incredible program you

have developed for these children. From the professional instruction, to the opportunity to experience different genre of music, to the chance to meet talented children from all over the world, you provided an unforgettable summer experience for my girls. They are very

depressed today now that it is all over.

          Thank you so much again...can't wait for next summer.

Stephanie S.
New York/Long Island Mom

 

Congratulations on your obvious success with Willy Wonka Jr and Rumpelstiltskin.  Your ability to bring out the talent and skills that these your teenagers possess is truly impressive.  We commend you on the further development of Jake's acting skills and the noteworthy elevation of his confidence on stage.  His improvement is undoubtly the result of you instruction, coaching, and guidance.  Thank you.

Milton M.

2007 Session Four/Bucks County

 

The Theatre Arts Center is a wonderful place for students to learn about the performing arts.  It is a nurturing environment that promotes insight and education into the exciting world of theatre, dance and related arts, as well as positive social skills. What could be better than to see a young talent who has gained confidence, surprised themselves with their newfound ability and celebrating the joys of theatre arts and performing?  All of  this is possible due to the hardworking and caring Directors--Kristine Lewis and Robert Laconi.  I am proud to be part of this fine and well-run operation.

Gary John La Rosa

Professional Director & Choreographer

 

Just a note to say "Thank You" from the bottom of my heart to you and your staff for making uc a huge difference in my son's life.  Your staff not only provided him with excellent training an valuable experience to the industry, but on a larger scale, you have ignited within him a love for the Arts that I am sure will follow him for years to come.  Thank you so much.

Sandra L.

2007 & 08 Senior Company & Cabaret Workshop/NYC

I wanted to let you know how pleased I was with your summer program. My daughter, Samantha M., Junior Company, had a wonderful experience and was so happy to be a part of your program. Your show far exceeded our expectations. I cannot begin to tell you how impressed my family was with the show and what Samantha had accomplished in the four short weeks of the program. She made a lot of friends and learned so much in such a short period of time. Your staff was so professional and she felt honored to be there. Samantha is so sad that it is all over and is already talking about coming back next year. Do you have a mailing list that we could be on so we can know when auditions will be next year?

 

Again, I just wanted to say thank you so much. I hope you and your staff enjoy the rest of your summer and Samantha and I look forward to joining you again next year.

 

As you know, we did see the Cabaret show and we were all very impressed. I didn't realize this was your first year doing it and it is such a wonderful idea for all the reasons you stated. Looking at the program and seeing how long some of the kids have been with you, it is so heartening to see such enthusiasm and loyalty from them for you and your staff. If you have the space available next year, Julia is definitely interested.

 

I am very excited to be working with The Theatre Arts Center to adapt a new School Edition of Moby Dick the musical. I was very impressed by the talent and the staff and thought this would be the perfect group to premier the new version of the show. The score of the show and the concept in general

has been a big hit with audiences all over. It appeals to all ages but the HS groups have had particular fun with the show.

I look forward to working with the cast on this exciting project.  

Disney's Aladdin Junior is the first release in MTI and Disney's collaboration. During the next several years more titles will be developed. The hope is to have high quality stage versions of some of the classic

Disney titles available for the Junior and the new KIDS collection at MTI. Several of the students from Theatre Arts were involved in the first leg of development of the show as well.

 

 

Music Theatre International

 

I just wanted to let you know how thankful and pleased I was with the summer program that Kourdell had the opportunity to be part of.  This summer has truly changed his life and gave him much more desire to fulfill his dreams.  We are definetly and impatiently waiting next year's auditions.

Tracey Y.
2007 & 08 Junior Company & Cabaret NYC

 

 

 

 

This is Bernadette S. I just wanted to tell you that I auditioned for LaGuardia H.S.  I was given a call back for drama, and ever since I have been waiting to hear from them. Today I received a letter.  I was accepted as an incoming freshman in their drama studio! As soon as I found out, I knew I needed to let you know. I want to thank you and TAC for everything that I have learned over the past two summers (2007, 2008). 

 

I do not think that I would be attending LaGuardia if it weren't for you! Thank You!  

 

I was accepted into  the High School of Performing Arts' ("Fame's" LaGuardia H.S. in New York City) Vocal Music Program and I just wanted to thank you for all of your help because for the past three years (2004 - 2007) I have gained so much from Theatre Arts Center.  (Cindy is currently in LaGuardia's Drama Program.)

Thanks!!
Cindy D.

 

And about coming back, are you kidding me? It has gone from being a great way to spend her summer, to the best experience of her life! The kids talk online all the time, and can't wait to be back together!

Best, Candace

I am the mother of Olivia  from the Stars Company and I would just like to say thank you for the experience you have given to my daughter.  What a terrific time she had and I could not have been happier with the quality of your show and the things that I feel she has learned.  You obviously put your heart and soul into making this a rewarding experience for these kids and I can assure you that you are doing an incredible job.

Robin S. from Pennsylvania

2007 Stars Company/NYC   

 

Kids from Theatre Arts Center know how to work and rehearse.  That's why when I'm putting together a show, 90% of my cast comes from TAC!  [That's What Kids Do (link) starred many TAC students.]

Cathy Block
Professional Composer

 

The DVD is simply fantastic.  It is everything I expected and more.  Obviously, you have a very well organized summer camp running in America.  The children really loved it and hope to return again.  They often mention it, remembering the wonderful time they had.  I guess those memories will stay with them for a long time.  (Two international students for two years in the Senior Company, NYC)

 

Rose P.

Dublin, IRELAND

 

I just want to say how much fun I had over the summer at the Ensemble workshop, and I want to thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to go to New York and work with wonderful actors.  I have learned a lot from you.

Philip P.
Bucks County, H.S. Senior

 

I just had to write you to tell you how much we as a family enjoyed your performances at the Bristol Riverside Theatre.  The students did a wonderful  job thanks to their great teachers.  Thanks so much for being so open with your incredible school to a child who loves to sing, dance and act.  You have given her a great opportunity to do what she loves to do, with amazingly talented teachers.  Thanks for your talent, your kind teaching style, and for the loads of laughter!

Jill
Bucks County Mom

What we really valued about your program (NYC, Queens) is that your teachers were very professional and imparted a sense of what it's like to be a performer - the discipline and the fun. They were good role models. Paloma enjoyed every moment of every day (2004) and I think she really learned a lot. In her previous summer programs (Los Angles) she also had a lot of fun, and the staff were equally caring and supportive--- but they didn't have the range of experience that your staff had. I was also impressed at how well organized and thought-out your program was for each of the age groups. And while I usually prefer to see musicals to be performed in their entirety, as opposed to the variety show format, I was won over by your approach to teaching the kids how to be part of an ensemble.

Carla B.

Singapore

 

My daughter, Amanda, just completed her first year at the Theatre Arts Center and absolutely loved the classes, the directors, teachers, and other students.  It has been a wonderfully exciting year for her [she has auditioned for several Broadway shows!] and we look forward to her returning in the fall.

Donna K.
Bucks County Mom