Ovation! launches performing arts academy

Ovation! Musical Theatre Bainbridge announces the launch of The Ovation! Performing Arts Academy. Classes will begin in January.

Initially, the Academy will offer a selection of classes specifically designed for youth in grades 3-8 emphasizing skill development in musical theater. Additionally, a by-audition Glee Club is being started for students in sixth-12th grades. All classes will be conducted by Ovation!’s new Director of Music and Education by Todd Hulet.

Since moving to the Northwest in August, Hulet has worked with Seattle Children’s Theatre, Redmond Theatre and Seattle Public Theatre, and as music director for Ovation!’s production of “The Sound of Music.”

“His work with ‘The Sound of Music’ cast has been fantastic,” Ron Milton, Ovation! Artistic Director said. “Parents and performers have really responded to him, his professionalism, musicianship and how he makes it fun.”

Hulet has previously worked with Phoenix Theatre, Bay View Music Festival, Phoenix Opera, Childsplay Theatre and the La Jolla Playhouse.

“Todd has an extensive background in performing arts education for students of all ages and experience levels. We are thrilled to have him on our team,” Ovation! Board President Tom Burt said in a press release.

As part of his work in education, he has developed musical theatre programs at Childsplay Theatre (Tempe, Ariz.), Arizona School for the Performing Arts (Phoenix) and Seattle Public Theatre. He has also written two musicals: “These Days” and “The Wheels on the Bus,” a musical for small children and their families.

“Musical Theatre is an art with its own challenges, demands and rewards,” Hulet said. “We will offer classes for all levels and want to encourage kids to experience the thrill and magic that musical theatre can offer.”

Ovation!’s first slate of classes include a special program for homeschooled kids, an immersion class about the musical “Wicked,” a class on musical villains and a by-audition Glee Club.

Class descriptions and enrollment information is available at www.ovationmtb.com, by emailing info@ovationmtb.com or by calling 842-0472. Scholarships are available.

For more information, contact Marijane Milton at 780-5443 or 842-0472, or Todd Hulet at toddhulet@ovationmtb.com.

Contact Bainbridge Island Review Staff Writer Connie Mears at cmears@bainbridgereview.com or (206) 842-6613.

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