2009-2010 Resident Touring Company

The San Angelo Broadway Academy Youth Theatre Grows Into a Touring Company with a Texas Theme

The San Angelo Broadway Academy has seen a large growth over the past years not only in student numbers but in programs offered as well. What started as a simple musical theatre summer camp has now developed into a prestige arts program in West Texas offering education in theatre, performance, dance, and vocal performance to over 250 students. The growth in students and programs has led to SABA acquiring a second studio where classes in ballet, tap, jazz, and hip hop are held. The dance studio at SABA offers a state of the art sprung wooden dance floor that gives dancers the advantage of dancing on a floor that reduces injury risk and gives them a comfortable environment to dance in.

Over the past year, the SABA faculty has discussed the idea of a company of students who audition to become part of an elite group that receives education in theatre built on a curriculum to fit the unique needs and talents of the company and who perform locally and nationally to different organizations. The idea, based from the Kids Who Care award winning resident company in Fort Worth, finally made its mark last summer when a group of SABA students performed an original piece called Deep in the Heart. An original musical production written by a group in Fort Worth, this musical celebrates Texas, its multicultural history, and its heroes, bringing legend, fact and tall tale to the stage in a celebration of strong men and women who have impacted the world. Deep in the Heart captures the true spirit of Texas – a spirit that inspires people to do more than they thought possible. The uniqueness about this musical is that Angela Hill, SABA Founding Director, was able to write pieces of San Angelo’s rich history into the musical with amazing stories such as Fort Concho, the Lady in Blue, Santa Angela, and much more.  Deep in the Heart is filled with beautiful songs, hilarious and heartwarming stories, and outrageous dancing that will leave audiences walking away encouraged, empowered, and feeling like a Texan.

In August, SABA held auditions for their first ever Resident Company and casted 26 highly talented students ages 11-18. These students have been hard at work in class and rehearsals and will begin booking tours for Deep in the Heart in late November and getting ready for a memorable performance at Walt Disney World in March. SABA touring shows are great for conferences, conventions, luncheons, community events and SCHOOLS! Yes schools because Deep in the Heart meets TEKS for 4^th and 7^th grade Texas History! SABA Resident Company will come out to schools in San Angelo and any surrounding areas and perform for students, and then SABA will provide teachers with a supplemental packet for their classes. It’s a great way for students to see an amazing production and learn about Texas History at the same time!

The Resident Company will be booking performances through May 2010. There are 3 different styles of the musical productions: a 20-30 minute production, a 45 minute production, or a full length production (theatre venue required). SABA kids can perform anywhere from a cafeteria stage to section of grass. So, the next time you are looking for entertainment or education, invite 26 talented SABA kids to your event and leave a lasting impression on your attendees. FMI on the tours or to book an event, call 763-4807 or go to www.sabroadwayacademy.org. If you are interested in SABA’s various performing arts programs visit the website for opportunities.