20th Anniversary of Performing with the Pros

Angie Kidder

Performing With the Pros is a production traditionally put on by the Musical Theater conservatory that brings a professional in the arts field onto the OCSA campus. This year was Performing With the Pros’ 20th Anniversary, so the Musical Theater Conservatory knew that it needed to put a special twist on it to celebrate; it decided to open up the show to six other conservatories—Classical Voice, Ballroom, Ballet Folklorico, Popular Music, Jazz Studies and Production & Design. This gave students the opportunity to collaborate with each other in new ways and create a production that truly exemplifies the full breadth of talent of OCSA performers.

Nathan Han (MT ‘26) reflected on his time working on the show, “I think it’s really unique in the sense that it brings together so many different people from different backgrounds. I love that it showcases a wide selection of art forms. It’s the first of this kind of project that I’ve worked on.”

Normally, the professional is someone who comes onto campus on a residency as a Broadway actor. However, this year, it was decided that the faculty at OCSA would become the Pros for this year’s production. This gave students the chance to work alongside the Pros throughout the entirety of the rehearsal process, rather than just the last week of rehearsals. This also allowed cast members to get to know their Pros better and to receive great advice from them throughout the entire rehearsal process.

Lavinia Watkins (CV ‘26) commented that one faculty member in the show that she enjoys working with is Robert Norman, who has worked with the Los Angeles Opera and LA Master Chorale. “He’s great and always really kind. He’s been a great person to work with and is always very supportive of everyone,” Watkins said.

The story of Performing With the Pros this year revolves around The Great American Songbook, a series of songs from the 20th century that arose from popular music, jazz standards and show tunes. It includes lesser known songs like “St. Louis Blues” composed by W.C Handy, to hits like “Smells like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana and “When You Believe” from The Prince of Egypt.

Grace Gilchirst (MT ‘24) comments on one of her favorite songs in the show. “New York, New York has definitely got to be my favorite number. The soloists do a great job at telling the story of America. I think that it is the pinnacle of not just Musical Theater but American History. Zane Carras (MT ‘24) does an amazing job in specifically portraying that as an actor.”

The show was held February 23rd and 24th in the Webb Theatre. It was a highly successful show that truly represented the talents of OCSA students across their respective conservatories. The production was a phenomenal way to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this project at OCSA.