DARIEN ARTS CENTER WELCOMES NEW DIRECTOR OF KIDS’ THEATRE

The Darien Arts Center, arts.darien.org, is pleased to welcome Maggie Pangrazio as the Director of Kids’ Theatre. Pangrazio, who has an extensive theatrical background, has recently been involved in productions with the Darien Arts Center, New Canaan Powerhouse Players, Westport Community Theatre, Curtain Call, Downtown Cabaret Theatre, and the Bridgeport Theatre Company. She recently directed a production of “Dracula” for the Bridgeport Theatre Company, and originated the lead role in Bridgeport Community Theatre’s new musical, “SubUrban Decay.”  

Pangrazio has a degree in Music Theatre Performance and Communications from American University, where she graduated Cum Laude with University Honors. Raised in Fairfield, CT, Pangrazio was largely involved in theatre in her high school, Fairfield Follies, and the Downtown Cabaret Theatre. Pangrazio is also a certified makeup artist in theatrical and special effects makeup.

Pangrazio is particularly excited about the “Connecting with the Camera” Workshop at the Darien Arts Center, which will provide a unique opportunity for burgeoning actors, ages 11 and up, to study with accomplished professional actors, Matt Porretta and Nick Sadler this fall. The two-day workshop will cover techniques and trade secrets for performing on camera in film, television, and commercials. “Learning from actors that have had starring roles on Broadway, in films, and on television is going to be a real thrill for the students”, said Pangrazio. (Porretta and Sadler, collectively, have had roles in Beverly Hills 90210, The New Adventures of Robin Hood, CSI, Brothers, True Grit, Disclosure, Scent of a Woman, and Fair Game.)

“I am thrilled that there is something for every age group in the Kids’ Theatre Program at the DAC. For younger children, in grades 4 through 8, we are offering the Musical Theatre Ensemble, which will culminate into a toe-tapping performance featuring Broadway hits that span the years.  It will be as much fun for the audience as the kids performing.” For the youngest actors, the DAC offers Beginners Drama for children in kindergarten and 1st grades. “It is designed to introduce the world of theatre to beginning performers. Through imagination, musical movement and some just plain fun, children will create characters and learn to work together to tell their own stories. I am really looking forward to seeing the creativity and talent of all the different age groups.”

Space is still available in fall children’s classes at the DAC. Musical Theatre Ensemble, which meets on Thursdays from 4-6pm, starts on October 3. Beginner’s Drama begins on October 1 and meets on Tuesdays from 3:45-4:30. “Connecting with the Camera: The Keys to Delivering Truthful Acting on Camera” will take place on September 28 and October 5, 2013 from 10am to 1pm.  Class size is limited, so early registration is recommended. For the full fall catalog, more information, or to register go to arts.darien.org. For questions call (203) 655-8683.

Founded in 1975, the Darien Arts Center (DAC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing visual and performing arts programs and events for the community. The DAC offers educational programs in Dance, Visual Arts, Music & Theatre, & special events & live theatre performances by DAC Stage. Private donations, grants, tuition fees & ticket sales fund the DAC, which is located at 2 Renshaw Road, behind the Town Hall. For further information, call (203) 655-8683 or visit arts.darien.org.