Studio 3 Performing Arts and their sister organization Limelight provide unparalleled triple threat training for children interesting in singing, dancing and acting. Coupled with the purpose of providing a supportive environment for those new to performing, it is at the helm of the arts scene in Gilbert.
Artistic Director Emma England is a seasoned pianist and dabbled in musical theater early on. She has parlayed her artistic background into a career and a true life passion.
"I was a professional pianist and composer growing up, and found musical theater to be my "escape" from the discipline of my piano studies. I found myself studying dance education at ASU and graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BA in Dance Education, a minor in Spanish, and K-12 Certification. I went on to teach high school for 5 years, while working at a local dance studio. When the owner of the studio had to close, I knew I had to step up and create a home for my performing arts kids."
Studio 3 was born and England was welcomed with rave reviews of her shows. She was elated, however still struggling to include those who could not afford to participate.
"We had many students who couldn't commit due to financial hardship. In 2016, Limelight was born, and we are a 501(c)3. This means we are able to raise scholarship money for kids and are hoping to one day make theater free for everyone!"
Limelight presents professional quality theater and educational experiences that are largely made possible because of its non-profit status. Through sponsors and donors each year, the bar remains high for the quality of programs the theater is able to create. Studio 3 and Limelight are well received at prestigious award ceremonies in the Valley, winning countless National Youth Arts and AriZoni Awards. Each award is special because it recognizes the hard work and dedication that goes into the shows not only for the award recipient, but for the kids and parents who helped bring the vision to life.
While the growing list of youth theaters in the East Valley means a variety of options for parents and children, there are key differences that set Studio 3 and Limelight apart.
"I think Studio 3 is special because our students are learning more than the performing arts. They are building life skills and becoming leaders in the community. We have a very special "everyone is welcome" mentality that is seen through our staff and our students."
England also notes that offering a quality triple threat training experience is a must for those students serious about a future in the performing arts, and Studio 3 offers an eclectic array of class options in all disciplines, taught by instructors who are at the professional level; most holding a bachelors degree or higher in arts education.
"We recognize that choosing the right instructors is more than which candidates can dance or sing well. These professionals must connect with our students and become mentors and role models."
Even if a child is not looking ahead to a future in the industry, England is confident that each child will take away valuable life skills and lessons from Studio 3.
"Through the arts, kids learn discipline, teamwork, collaboration, communication skills, and time management. Performers are also usually the type to go above and beyond in their future jobs because they are used to putting their best forward. I think that's why it is so important to recognize that all students are important and special, so we don't just focus on the ones looking toward the arts as a career."
Benefits: Benefits of participating in a youth theatre program (sidebar)
Self-Confidence:
Taking risks in class and performing in front of an audience teaches students to trust their ideas
and abilities. This confidence will apply in nearly every aspect of their future.
Imagination:
In a word addicted to technology, theatre provides an outlet for making creative choices,
thinking new ideas, and interpreting the material in expressive ways.
Empathy & Tolerance:
Acting roles from different situations, time periods, and cultures promotes compassion and
tolerance for others.
Communication Skills:
Drama enhances verbal and nonverbal expression of ideas. It improves voice projection, articulation, fluency of language, and persuasive speech.
Problem Solving:
Students learn to communicate the who, what, where, when, and why to the audience. Improvisation fosters quick-thinking solutions, which leads to greater adaptability in life.