Teen Summer Workshop
Grades 7-12 (and recent graduates)
Two-week workshop
Monday, July 29 - Friday, August 9
Monday-Friday: 12:30 - 5:30 PM
MTP Studios (12th & Spruce Street)
$350
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Performance: Saturday, August 10 @ 7 pm
at NEST Building (1301 Locust Street)
MUCH ADO
A new musical by Ben Diskant, based on Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing
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During this workshop, teen actors will work directly with the playwright and composer of MUCH ADO to present a staged workshop.
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SYNOPSIS:
In the spirit of Grease and Mean Girls, Much Ado is a modern retelling of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy. With a pop-infused musical theatre score, the story follows a group of seniors as they navigate their final year of high school. Though the first act is fun and upbeat, the second act comes crashing down to earth when a rumor gets out of hand, and everyone faces the repercussions of their actions. Swapping swords for cell phones, and whispers for instant messages, this Much Ado immediately takes us to the heart of what it means to be a Senior. Written specifically for high school-aged performers, Much Ado offers a unique opportunity for students to play characters their own age, while exploring issues (such as anxiety and cyber bullying) that they may currently face in school.
BEN DISKANT: is a writer and illustrator working in New York City. As a composer for young audiences: Judy Moody and Stink (ArtsPower National Touring Theatre) with Sami Horneff (lyrics), Jade Alaska (commissioned by Theatreworks/USA) with Neena Beber (lyrics/book). As a composer/lyricist: Kevin, Ask, I Will Tell, and the high school musical adaptation of Much Ado About Nothing. As an actor, Ben has appeared on Broadway in Time and The Conways (Roundabout) and off-broadway in Hit The Wall (Barrow Street Theatre) and The Cherry Orchard (Classic Stage Company). Education: Northwestern University, The Old Globe/USD: MFA in Acting, BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Workshop. www.bendiskant.com
