The Sun'll Come Out...

...on January 16th, 17th and 19th when Bronx Prep Performing Arts Academy wow audiences with a totally student-performed, student-designed, student-directed performance of Annie!

The high school students behind this show have taken full creative responsibility for putting on this show. They are learning the art of leadership and preparing a new generation of young artists to follow in their footsteps. Here are some glimpses of how the process has been unfolding:

High school leaders at an Annie Jr. planning meeting in Times Square

Performing Arts Academy alumni Hakeem and Denisse swap stories from college...
Hakeem is studying scenic design at Ithaca!

·       “Sometimes it's hard trying to control middle school artists because they are so full of energy and they just want to express themselves. But once we allow them to express themselves freely in a controlled environment, we get great work done.” –Yamslee, 12th grade Director of Annie Jr.

Yamslee running her first tech rehearsal as if she'd been doing it all her life

The orphans listen in to Bert Healy on the radio

·       “I think directing a scene in the One Act Festival really helped me in directing Annie Jr. because I know how to communicate with the cast and what I expect from them as well as what they can expect from me.”- Allison, 11th grade Stage Manager/ Assistant Director of Annie Jr.

Allison and Bintou adjust lighting cues after tech rehearsal

Allison explains her vision to Norberto at a planning meeting

“I didn’t know I could have so much fun being in charge of the technical aspect of the show. I found that I enjoy doing lights and sound.” - Kadeem, 11th grade Sound Designer for Annie Jr.

Kadeem is more than just a sound designer... he's also a circus performer.

Loading up wood for a day of set building

·       “When people see Annie Jr. on opening night, they’re going to be so impressed. Once they find out that it was directed entirely by students they won’t believe it. I think all the student leaders have done a great job. They are always ensuring that the kids are comfortable enough to make amazing art. I think they go above and beyond what they’re expected to do.” –Clementina, 11th grade Blogger/Publicity manager for Annie Jr.

Bintou and Letishia take a break from set building

Alumni Hakeem and Autumn help Kadeem and Edison backstage

The student leaders take a break for a healthy meal from the awesome folks
at Bascom Catering @ "The Point" 

Then it's back to work... Shaquasia and Bintou get the stage sparkling clean.

Come join us at "The Point" to see the results of all of this collaboration, learning and leadership: January 16th, 17th and 19th!