Westinghouse Academy

Pittsburgh, PA

Reported by: Cindy Ripley, iTheatrics Senior Education Associate, Resident Master Teacher

March 30, 2012

Do I speak for all teachers when I say that we simply want our kids to take part in musical theater productions for life skills, time management, teamwork ability and to have the time of their lives?  It is becoming a reality with the students from Westinghouse Academy in Pittsburgh, PA.  Camille and Michael are two cast members from the upcoming production of FAME JR that told me that being in a show gives them confidence, adds meaning to their lives, helps them grow in patience and they are now ready for ANYTHING!  The merits of the importance of musicals in our schools could not be said any better.  Bring it on, all you great kids and teams from Westinghouse Academy!
Meet CAMILLE from Westinghouse Academy
Grade: 12

Favorite subject: English Favorite color: Rainbow Favorite sport: Volleyball What’s interesting about you and your family? I'm the middle child but the only girl which makes me the baby. What do you want to be when you grow up? Actress, juvenile lawyer Role in show: Serena Katz Favorite part of rehearsal: Vocals Hardest part of being in the show: Dancing How has being in the show changed you? My patience has grown. Do you think it is important for other kids to be in a musical? Yes…teamwork! If you could travel in time and visit yourself right before you perform in the show, what would you say? Be ready at any cost!
Meet MICHAEL from Westinghouse Academy
Grade: 10 Favorite food: Ribs Favorite subject: Math Favorite hobbies: Sports and dancing What’s interesting about you and your family? How they are really supportive no matter what I do What do you want to be when you grow up? Basketball Player Role in show: Schlomo How has being in the show changed you? It helps me understand that I can do anything I put my mind to. What do you think your family will say when they see the show? Wow! My child is really good! Do you think it is important for other kids to be in a musical? Yes because it adds meaning to your life. If you could travel in time and visit yourself right before you perform in the show, what would you say? Let loose and give it your all!


*Read about the "Make A Musical" Team's first visit to Westinghouse Academy!*
“NBC’s ‘Smash’: Make A Musical” program is administered by iTheatrics under the supervision of Timothy Allen McDonald.  For more information, or to apply to become a part of the program, logon to www.MAKEAMUSICAL.ORG.