As a budding thespian and Broadway enthusiast, theatre junior Emma McAvoy didn’t even have to think twice when weighing the decision between a summer of relaxation and one of further becoming accustomed with the world of musical theatre. Though daily trips to the Kravis Center meant not venturing very far from home, the Broadway Artists Intensive still managed to provide McAvoy with the skills and insight necessary to propel her acting in the future.

“I [chose to attend] the Broadway Artists Intensive this past summer because I participated in the program last summer as well  and I loved it,” McAvoy said. “The entire faculty has had experience in several Broadway shows over the years and it is a great environment to create art.”

Going into the three-week long program, McAvoy had hoped to attain a better understanding of how to develop as an actress in musical theatre, particularly in the dance aspect of it.

“On a typical day we would arrive before 9 a.m., and warm up our bodies both in dance and vocally,” MacAvoy said. “We would then have classes all day, of which included jazz, tap, vocal technique, ballet, acting technique, improv, speech and diction and musical theatre dance. We would also rehearse for a showcase we have at the end of the program.”

The theatre intensive not only aided McAvoy in growing within her art, but it also supplied her with valuable lessons and experience, of which she’ll be able to take with her throughout her career in the field.

“From attending the Broadway Artists Intensive, I was taught a multitude of lessons, such as how to put your best foot forward in an audition, and how to get out of your own way so you can be as free as possible,” McAvoy said. “Most importantly though, the program taught young actors how to continue to train and fine tune your technique as you progress in the theatrical world.”