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LU’s Broadway Bootcamp Returns for 2023

Jan. 26, 2023

Lakeland University will host its free one-day Broadway Bootcamp on Saturday, April 1.

High school and current Lakeland students will train with award-winning Broadway artists and Lakeland faculty in voice, dance and acting. It is the only offering of its kind in the region for aspiring music and theater students.

The teaching staff includes four experienced industry experts:

• Singer/vocal coach Jackie Burns. Burns has the distinction of being the longest-running Elphaba in “WICKED.”
• Songwriters Sam Carner and Derek Gregor. Prominent Carner & Gregor works include “Unlock'd,” “Island Song” and “Techies!,” among others.
• Choreographer/dancer James Gray. Gray most recently returned from choreographing the international tour of “The Sound of Music.”

Registration is open for this free event. Visit Lakeland’s Broadway Bootcamp website to sign up or to learn all the details.

Students will receive practical advice for entering and working in the musical theater industry or finding ways to enjoy musical theater as an avocational performer or advocate.

The event begins at 8 a.m. in the Younger Family Center with an overview of the day. At 8:30, students will rotate between three sessions. All students will have the opportunity to complete all sessions:

• Song Interpretation – Positive Acting Choices: Sam Carner & Derek Gregor
• During this session, Carner & Gregor will build in the opportunity to provide feedback to as many participants as possible. Please bring along an audition cut or two, or any song that you have prepared for feedback. This is optional. No worries if you don’t have an audition cut ready to go.
• Vocal Coaching: Jackie Burns
• Participants will ignite their joy of singing as they learn how to approach pop songs and learn key skills to effortlessly nail riffs and runs.
• Movement Exploration: James Gray
• Explore movement and dance fundamentals.

Students also will gather for a masterclass session led by the Carner, Gregor and Burns or an Audition 101 workshop led by Gray and Lakeland faculty.

One attendee will receive a $750 scholarship to Open Jar Institute - New York City’s premiere Broadway training program.

The agenda will conclude with a panel Q&A session with the clinicians and LU staff as well as a performance by Jackie Burns, accompanied by Derek Gregor.