How Being Creative In The Performing Arts Can Help Your Mental Health!

Definition of Performing Arts is a form of creative activity that is performed in front of an audience, such as drama, music, and dance. For anyone, expressing creativity can help you to focus your mind and control your thoughts.

Many kids from the ages 12 – 18 have experienced some form of a mental health issue and many adults ages 18 – 49 also experience those same problems. So you might be wondering: How does the performing arts help mental health? One word: creativity!

Creativity can come in many forms. Some people are creative in sports, some in school, and some in the arts. There is no end to creativity. It is a way for you to express many emotions such as happiness, sadness, or even anger. Imagine you are on stage, say, performing a scene, it’s opening night and you are so happy that the show is finally being shown to the public, you express that through the smiling on your face or pure excitement and joy of just being able to make others laugh. By doing that it is expressing YOU and showing your true joy and love of acting and singing. It is helping you in ways that you did not think were possible. You are showing your creativity through happiness. By expressing this happiness you feel mentally stronger and who wouldn’t want to have a strong mental health?

Now, say you are at a dance competition and it is a lyrical piece and you are dancing to a sad song. Now let’s imagine that you have been going through a hard time in life and you are very sad and angry. You express that through your dance. And by doing that you are making your performance 10x better that it already was. After all that you mentally feel better. Performing is your therapy. Doing anything you love and what makes you happy is your therapy. According to Reset Mind and Body “Being creative can positively impact your mood. When someone is using their creative side of their brain, they are no longer in the reactive brain. A wandering mind is an unhappy mind, whereas a creative mind is focused on the present task at hand. While being creative, we can improve our emotions and reduce negative ones.”

Ever since the global pandemic has started it’s been hard to be creative in the performing arts. Many people’s mental health has not been well throughout the pandemic because things they love have not been able to happen and that is devastating. Covid unfortunately shut many things down that made us happy and the performing arts programs being one of them. But there are still some things you can do that can bring some type of normalcy to this difficult time. For example on Broadway Uticas website there are always virtual classes being promoted and there are many different types. There are dancing classes, singing classes, acting classes, and even virtual magic shows. How fun is that?

Always remember that being creative can help in many different ways you didn’t even realize and the performing arts is a great way to help, even during a global pandemic. Mental health is very important. It can help you remain successful. So stick to the things you love doing and keep doing it. It can make you happy and the people around you happy!

By: Alexandria Service

2020-2021 Youth Ambassador

How Live Theatre is Suffering During the Covid-19 Pandemic

The live theater industry is home to over 100 different types of jobs, and statista.com states that, “Approximately 146 thousand people worked for not-for-profit professional theaters in some capacity in the United States in 2016”. That is an unbelievable amount of people who are making little to no money, and it doesn’t look like they will be able to work safely anytime soon. Leaving thousands of people and families struggling to meet their basic needs.

Recently, Dr. Anthony Fauci stated, “If we get a really good vaccine and just about everybody gets vaccinated, you’ll have a degree of immunity in the general community that I think you can walk into a theater without a mask and feel like it’s comfortable that you’re not going to be at risk”. So maybe with the new vaccine, performance centers will begin to open faster than expected.

How will theaters and companies stay open? According to ibisworld.com , “Revenue for the Live Performance Theaters industry is anticipated to decrease 32.5% in 2020 as a result of temporary establishment closures that may last until 2021, significantly limiting the ability of operators to generate revenue through ticket sales”. Not only are the people working in live theaters suffering, but the businesses who own and use theaters are as well. How will they be able to pay the bills for the performing centers with no source of income?

For now, many places like Broadway Theater League of Utica are doing virtual classes, selling merchandise, accepting donations, and more. They are even collaborating with all different types of performers to bring live performances and fun to you.

This is not an ideal situation, but hopefully we will be able to see live performances sooner than later and everyone can get back to work. Until then, wash your hands, wear a mask, socially distance, and stay safe!

Angelina Tangorra, Sophmore at Frankfort-Schuyler High School
2020-2021 Broadway Utica Youth Ambassador 

How Covid-19 Impacted My Schools Musical For 2021

As Covid continues to impact everybody’s life in various ways, one thing that continues to be in question is Broadway, Musical Theatre, and live performances. For the moment, most activities that surround musical theatre have been put on pause. My High School alternates having a High School and Middle School show every other year. Last year our Middle School put on Frozen Jr., and luckily we were able to get in all of the performances before the Pandemic shutdown. This year (2021) was supposed to be the High School’s chance for a show. However, due to the pandemic and CDC regulations, having a traditional musical is something that can not happen just yet. Instead of cancelling the show, or doing a virtual show, the amazing teachers that are involved in the Music Department at Whitesboro High, have been working really hard to put together a virtual Cabaret. Everyone in the high school is allowed the chance to audition (through a virtual audition tape) for the Cabaret. They are allowed to audition to sing a solo and/or perform a monologue for the Cabaret. At the moment the virtual cabaret is set to happen sometime in March of 2021. Rehearsals will be done all over zoom so everyone is staying Covid safe, and final performances will be taped and added to the virtual streaming of the Cabaret. As a Senior, it would have been my last year to take part in a musical at my High School. It means so much to me and my fellow seniors that we have a chance to do something musical before we graduate. Covid has taken so much away from so many people, and it truly means a lot to me and many other seniors that our teachers have been working so hard to give us a musical alternative this year, while staying Covid safe.

Jennifer
Whitesboro High School Senior, 2020-2021 Youth Ambassador

How being involved with The Arts shapes you to have a successful future

The Arts is anything having to do with music, sculpting, painting, performing etc… Having an imagination to create anything you want too. The Arts is a way to express emotion, portray an image in singing, acting or even just a painting. Whether someone was just involved for fun or as a professional job, it creates an environment that allows you to be who you are. You learn skills that last you a lifetime and different values that make you who you are.

If you are interested (even if it is just a little bit or certain part), get involved! The best thing to do is get involved! Learn about different programs in school or your community. Anything from Choir to band, Orchestra to a basic theory class, or even a musical. In many places you can be a part of your school’s musical or one put on by the community! Most of the time it requires a simple audition depending on what you want to do.

The great thing about many of those options is you can try multiple of them at once, or at separate times. Not only are you discovering something new that you are passionate about, you create new bonds and memories with people. One of the many privileges of having The Arts community is being able to learn from other people who have the same common interest or goals. Being able to feed off from other people is something you take through many years. You learn that there’s always something new to try, or something new to hear.

Earlier in this reading, the word passion was mentioned and it is very important. When you have passion about something, that means you put your all into it and you want to strive to get better. You put the time, energy, and focus into whatever it may be. In life you can go as far as you want depending on how much you work for it. This does not mean music has to be your profession, but it is something you enjoy. Having passion for something in The Arts teaches you a bigger lesson than just learning to play an instrument or performing. It shows you that you can set any goal in life and achieve it, to have appreciation for other people and their dreams, but to also believe in your dreams. Big or small.

Having a successful future does not have to mean being the best at something or having fans. It means to open up opportunities for yourself to achieve what you want. Students from all over, every year, earn scholarships and different awards for achieving goals that they reached. After that… they set new ones and use what they have received (knowledge, confidence, scholarships etc..) to begin the next climb. There are adults who are out there getting paid to do what they love, whether it has to do with The Arts or being a doctor. Doing what you love and achieving your goals is the real success in this world.

“Being true to yourself never goes out of style ”~Legally Blonde

By: Karabrie Wiggins, a Youth Ambassador member of 2020-2021

Why is Musical Theatre Important?

The question of the night is why is musical theatre important? This is asking, what impact has musical theatre had on society and individuals as people personally.

After doing some digging and gathering information from my sources, surprisingly musical theatre is more effective than just a simple performance. It has a greater meaning and here is why. There are many benefits to participating in a musical theatre program. First, children that participate in drama programs experience improved reading comprehension and typically are more interested in learning. It also provides children with the opportunity to explore their imagination and make creative choices at a young age.

Hence, Drama demands self-discipline/control from its actors and actresses. Improvisation helps develop quick thinking and problem solving skills. Performing on stage requires concentration and mental focus which is a necessary skill to have in achieving goals in life. Most importantly, musical theatre fosters a social awareness through exposure to the social issues, events and cultures that are portrayed in the scripts. These very things help students to develop an ability to understand works of literature, performance and expression in general. It is a great opportunity for students to continue further their education and a great time with friends on stage. It is an outlet for students to express themselves in a unique manner artistically.

Ultimately, musical theatre is important because it helps children recognize their potential for success.

Written by: Rijah 2020-2021 Broadway Utica Youth Ambassador 

Santa Claus is coming to Town!

You heard it right, Santa Claus is coming to Broadway Theatre League of Utica!  We have called in a special favor to our friends up at the North Pole and Santa and Mrs. Claus are heading to our office on Saturday, December 12th from 1p-3p! Join us as we provide you with a sneak peek into the Downtown Utica workshop. Broadway Utica is transforming their office into Santa’s Workshop and we are inviting you to witness the magic from the sidewalk. Watch Santa finish preparing the toys for the big day! Visitors can pose with the Jolly Old Elf through the window display.  He will be bringing his mailbox along to collect everyone’s wish list.

“It is such a warm traditional feeling to get a photo with Santa year after year, so having the opportunity to pose with Santa through the window will be a “hat tip” to the tradition while keeping everyone safe.” Executive Director Danielle Padula said.

Visitors are also encouraged to stop by or order takeout from our various restaurant partners while they are visiting downtown Utica.  So many of our friends have been affected this year and we want to do everything we can to support them.  We’re hoping the community will come out to help us do so.

Please remember to bring along a non-perishable item for the UTICA FOOD PANTRY during the event.  If you bring an item, you will receive a $5 gift card to a future performance with Broadway Utica courtesy of Bank of Utica. Let’s Illuminate this Community together!!

This event is sponsored by our friends at Bank of Utica, Carmella’s Café & Preswick Glen

Broadway Theatre League of Utica is located at 258 Genesee St. Utica, NY 13502 across from the Stanley Theatre.

Facemask are required in line along with social distancing. CDC Guidelines will be followed.

A VIRTUAL VISIT WITH SANTA LIVE AT THE NORTH POLE AND YOU’RE INVITED! 

Wednesday, December 16th – times ranging from 5:30pm-7:30pm

While things may be different right now, here at Broadway Theatre League of Utica we are trying to keep traditions alive! As you may have seen we are hosting virtual holiday streaming, because what is the holidays without a Broadway performance. We are excited for the magic the holiday season brings, especially through little ones eyes. That is why we are inviting you to take a virtual trip to the North Pole with family and friends.

Broadway Utica is hosting this event from the comfort of your home. So, grab the matching pajamas, hot cocoa and cookies as Santa goes over your child’s wish list, reads ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ and gives you a behind the scenes peek on how they’re getting ready for Christmas. Mrs. Claus, elves and even the reindeer will even make an appearance. This event will be hosted through a special ZOOM link you will receive after purchase.

The event doesn’t end after your time is up with Santa and his crew. Make sure you check your mailbox in the following days after the event. Your child(ren) will receive a personalized letter from Santa and some treats to leave for the reindeer.

This special meet and greet is 20 minutes long. You will take the journey to the north pole along with a limited number of other families during a designated time slot. Four time slots will be offered, limited spots are available. 5:30-5:50 pm, 6:00-6:20 pm, 6:30-6:50 pm & 7:00-7:20 pm.

“We were so happy to hear that Santa was available to partner up with us for this special event.  He has been a pleasure to work with and we look forward to visiting with him virtually on December 16^th with all of you!”  Jill Conley from Broadway Theatre League of Utica. For tickets visit BroadwayUtica.org or call 315-624-9444.

Visit BroadwayUtica.org to download our unique “Letter to Santa” and make sure to email it back to Jill@BroadwayUtica.org 48 hours prior to your departure.  Santa will go over your child’s list and any other fun facts you want to include in the email. HO HO HO !!

THREE BROADWAY STARS BRING THEIR EXPERTISE AND KNOWLEDGE TO BROADWAY UTICA THROUGH VIRTUAL MASTER CLASSES

TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE
Broadway Theatre League of Utica is pleased to continue to offer Master Classes with the brightest talent from Broadway directly to you. Through these classes, students will learn many techniques that will leave them completely inspired, energized and focused to continue on their own journey to new heights.

LAURA OSNES
Laura Osnes, Host of our Master Class: Acting Through Song, is a Two-time Tony Award nominated actress best known for her work in Bonnie and Clyde as Bonnie Parker and the title role in the Rodgers & Hammerstein’s revival of Cinderella on Broadway, both of which garnered her nominations. Join Laura as she hosts the Master Class: Acting Through Song.
Laura coaches you on how to nail your next audition. This class is a 2 Hour Master Class including a Q & A. A participation ticket is $55.00, but if you would just prefer to observe, the cost for that is $20.00. 12+ recommended. Saturday November 25, 2020 – 3pm -5 pm Est. Time. Home Streaming.

SAMANTHA PAULY
Samantha Pauly Host of our Master Class: Virtual Dance Class, is best known for originating the role of Katherine Howard in SIX The Musical on Broadway. In the summer of 2019 Samantha was hand picked by Andrew Lloyd Weber and Jamie Lloyd to play Eva Peron after an international search for Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre’s revival of Evita on the West. The production went on to receive nominations and wins at The Evening Standard Theatre Awards, the WhatsOnStage Awards, and the Oliviers.

Join Samantha for a Virtual Master Class as she teaches you a combo from the Broadway Musical SIX!. Samantha will grace us with a one hour Master Dance Class followed by a 30 min. Q & A. The cost for the experience is just $30. All ages and skill levels are welcome to join. Saturday, December 5 – 12 pm est. Home Streaming

F. MICHAEL HAYNIE
Michael Haynie, host of our Master Class: Finding Your Character: Songs for Auditions, has taken Broadway by wintery storm! Most recently, all of his Disney dreams came true when he was cast as Olaf in the National tour of Frozen. Michael has also starred on Broadway as Augustus Gloop in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Boq in Wicked, and Holler If Ya Hear Me. He was also seen on TV in Jesus Christ Superstar Live and Peter Pan Live.
Join Michael for a 90 Min. Master Class with Q & A. The cost for this experience is only $25.00. 10+ recommended. Tuesday, December 8th 7PM EST. Home Streaming

To purchase tickets to all our Master Classes, please click here or call the Broadway Utica Box Office at 315-624-9444.
As always, thank you for supporting the arts!

ALL classes are for educational purposes only and cannot and will not be considered an audition. We will not be able to share any video recording of this workshop to ensure we maintain a safe space for all participants. Students are encouraged to take handwritten or typed notes during the workshop for their reference.

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Broadway Utica Announces Hip Hop Nutcracker for Holiday Streaming This Year!

A holiday mash-up for the whole family, directed and choreographed by Jennifer Weber, The Hip Hop Nutcracker recorded live at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center is a contemporary dance spectacle set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless music. A unique and joyful event, this evening-length production is performed by a supercharged cast of a dozen all-star dancers, a DJ, a violinist, and MC Kurtis Blow, one of hip hop’s founding fathers, who opens the show with a short set.

Just like the original, in The Hip Hop Nutcracker, Maria-Clara and the Nutcracker Prince go on a dream adventure battling a gang of mice, visiting the land of sweets and learning the lessons of the holiday season. Innovative digital graffiti and visuals transform the landscape of E.T.A. Hoffmann’s beloved story from traditional 19^th Century Germany to the vibrant, diverse sights and sounds of contemporary New York City.

Through this re-mixed and re-imagined version of the classic, the dynamic performers of The Hip Hop Nutcracker take us on a journey that celebrates love, community and the magic of the holiday season.

HOW IT WORKS:

Click the purchase ticket button to buy a General Admission or VIP ticket.  Upon completion of purchase, you will receive an email with instructions on how to login to the performance.  On the day of the show, follow those instructions and you will be allowed entry when the performance is ready to begin.  General Admission must view at scheduled time which is December 4^th at 7:00pm EST.

VIP package performances are video on demand and allows viewer to watch over 48 hour window (following initial scheduled time) and view a post-show conversation with the show’s creators. Post show conversation will be live and will start at 85 minutes after the initial scheduled showtime. VIP package includes an autographed show poster.  Purchaser must include address and phone in confirmation in order to receive.

“While I’m saddened, we can’t take The Hip Hop Nutcracker on the road this year, I’m thrilled we’re able to find a way to bring this show to audiences around the country for the seventh consecutive season,” says Executive Producer and Tony Award winner Eva Price. “This will be a holiday season unlike any other. I’m so glad we’ll have this comforting, inspiring and inclusive tradition to provide much-need and well-earned joy.”

Tickets start at $20.00

Please visit BroadwayUtica.org or contact our offices at 315-624-9444 Monday – Thursday 9am-4p.