THE HAMILTON EXPERIENCE
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In 2023, Musical Theatre & Actors Studio students got to spend the day at Fairfax Academy participating in a very special masterclass with company members of the North American tour of Hamilton. The day-long event, which was divided into four workshops, began with company members Pedro Garza [swing] and Tony D’Alelio [ensemble]. Together, they taught students original choreography to “The Room Where It Happens.” Shedding any of the inhibitions they may have had entering the space, students got right to work nailing down the intricate choreography all while learning of the conceptualization behind it.
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Nick Sanchez
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Nikisha Williams
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Pedro Garza
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Tony D'Alelio
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Next, students sat down with Brad Broman, Associate Company Manager, for a workshop focused around “the business of the business.” Mr. Broman, who started out as a performer himself, was able to highlight for students that success in the performing arts is not ‘one-size-fits-all’ and does not always mean standing in the spotlight. Students sat at the edge of their seats as Brad shared with them his own journey before answering questions. A second Q&A with Nick Sanchez [u/s Alexander Hamilton]and Nikisha Williams [Eliza Hamilton] took place before everyone returned to the Black Box Theatre for a song workshop. Together, Sanchez and Williams coached over ten student performers through their material, offering notes on vocal technique, intention, characterization, etc. Perhaps what was most special, however, was when they performed their duet, “That Would Be Enough”, just a few feet from the students.
Brad Broman
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"Mr. DiCenzo, it was truly a pleasure to meet the students of Fairfax Academy’s Musical Theatre & Actors Studio and to get the chance to chat and work with them. The [Hamilton] cast and I discussed – at great length – how incredibly talented, thoughtful, and energetic the students are. I, personally, along with Nick, Tony, Nikisha, and Pedro, have taught these sorts of classes all over the country, but never to such great result. We were so impressed by their ability to work so quickly and intelligently with notes and adjustments. Their questions were equally thoughtful and showed an eagerness to grow and learn. It is truly a gift to have an Academy like this in your district, and incredible that these students are given the opportunity to train at such a high level beginning so early in their high school career.
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Certainly, working with someone of your caliber, with such tenacity and demand for excellence, will truly serve them well no matter their choice of path in the arts. It is inspiring to see the next wave of theatre artists in such good hands. On behalf of the cast and crew of our Hamilton Philip Tour, thank you for having us! Thank you to your students for sharing their talents with us. And thank you for all you’re personally doing to shape the future of our industry. Break-a-leg! " -Brad Broman-
PROFESSIONAL GUEST ARTISTS
The students enrolled in the Musical Theatre & Actors Studio are regularly exposed to industry professionals for workshops and masterclasses. From choreographers to vocal coaches joining us from the nation's top regional theatres to Broadway, the artists who visit our studio provide relevant and one-of-a-kind training to our students. Below are just some who have shared their talents - and testimonials - with us!
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“Teaching at Fairfax Academy for Communication and the Arts was an absolute pleasure. The students I had the privilege to work with were nothing short of remarkable. Their professionalism and level of preparation were truly impressive, setting a high standard for themselves and each other. What stood out the most was their willingness to take risks and embrace new challenges. In a field where vulnerability is key to finding success, these students fearlessly dove into their work, eager to learn and grow. It was evident that both Mr. DiCenzo and the students had fostered a culture of support and acceptance, where failure was not met with judgment but seen as an opportunity for growth. This nurturing environment, where talent was matched by a genuine desire to learn and evolve, is a rare gem in the performing arts world. Being in a room filled with such a perfect blend of talent, eagerness, vulnerability, and a shared dedication to growth was truly inspiring.”
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“The students at Fairfax Academy continue to amaze me with their talent, focus, and love for what they do! As an educator and artist, I’ve been afforded the opportunity to work with many high school programs locally and abroad. However, few have compared to my experience with Fairfax Academy. I must applaud Erich DiCenzo for instilling a drive in the students that I haven’t witnessed in quite some time. They inspire me to do better and to be better. The talent and skillset of these students show no boundaries. I will be surprised if Broadway doesn’t come knocking!”
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“Fairfax Academy is unique in that it brings together passionate kids from all over the county. They are treated as professionals by Mr. DiCenzo, and I honestly think that makes them behave more professionally. I think it starts with the fact this is a program that welcomes kids who genuinely care and take their craft seriously. It is always easier to work with people who care. Apathy is the enemy of creativity. Because they care, they make an effort to include everyone and lift each other up. It is such a joy to see a kid I may have known since they were in 7th grade evolve into a great young artist. When I say “great” I am not referring to their ability on stage. “Great” refers to their ability to trust, listen, participate, and play in a smart, joyous, and empathetic way. I always leave my time at Academy recharged and I look forward to hopefully being able to send someone else down that path.”
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“When asked to choreograph a piece for the Fairfax Academy musical theatre students for an upcoming cabaret, I jumped at the chance. Under the direction of Erich DiCenzo, this group of young artists is not only talented but focused, collaborative, and driven. I was immediately impressed by their professionalism in a rehearsal environment. Beyond that, they are interested and inspired young artists- a true joy to be in the room with. I was both impressed and inspired. These creative gifts and the joy of self-expression are in abundance at Fairfax Academy. Hats off to you!”
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“Mr. DiCenzo’s classroom is no ordinary classroom. My goal for class was to prepare them to audition successfully on-camera. The space was enlivened when the students trickled in for our first session. They were willing to jump in and participate fully. Everyone worked on-camera and then were recorded with playback and evaluation. There was no groaning or criticism of themselves or others. This is a very supportive group! These students are well prepared for the audition process as well as getting the job. It is encouraging to see young actors take the process seriously as well as enjoying what they are doing. The students in Mr. DiCenzo’s program are getting a great opportunity to broaden their choices as actors.”
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“Whether within our discussions or through performances, the students in the MTAS were bright, joyful, and authentic...not to mention talented! I truly was astounded at just how prepared these students already are. Everyone who worked had a profound sense to how they approached their audition selections. Whether it was a Shakespearean monologue, or a vocally impressive contemporary song, these students were ready! This preparedness will set MTAS students out from the rest of the hundreds of students I’ll see during this year’s audition season. It is also undoubtedly a result of the style of training they are receiving from Erich DiCenzo here at the Academy. I hope that you and your students recognize what capable hands they are in. In my own recruitment efforts and travels, I can say there are few programs like the Musical Theatre & Actors Studio.”
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