Student Spotlight: Florida Musical Theatre Intensive  

From summer camps to pre-professional programs, Dr. Phillips Center is committed to creating opportunities for students at every stage of their artistic journey. Through year-round classes, performance experiences and specialized training, programs at Dr. Phillips Center’s AdventHealth School of the Arts helps young artists build their skills, confidence and passion for the performing arts."

This June, the arts center expanded those opportunities with the launch of the inaugural Florida Musical Theatre Intensive. Sixty high school performers from across the state came together for a two-week, pre-professional training program, offering students a truly unique opportunity to prepare for the next stage of their artistic journeys. 

From June 14-28, FMTI members participated in a conservatory-style experience at Dr. Phillips Center’s AdventHealth School of the Arts. Selected students across Florida spent their days taking voice, acting, dance and audition technique masterclasses alongside industry professionals, creative staff and a cohort of peers.  

Learn more about Florida Musical Theatre Intensive here. 

For participant Kaira Perez, the two-week intensive was transformative.

"The amount of growth I saw in myself in just two weeks was immense, especially in my vocal confidence. I entered the program as a dancer first, but I was encouraged and supported in the areas where I felt less confident. I had opportunities to explore vocal improvisation, strengthen my ensemble skills and develop my individual voice. Every class provided new perspectives and enhanced my versatility as a performer." 

Students also had the opportunity to participate in curated special events, such as a trip to Universal Orlando for a workshop with musical theatre professionals. Every detail, from classes and rehearsals to housing, meals and production costs were covered by tuition, with scholarship available.

The program culminated in a fully-staged production of Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim’s West Side Story. Students stepped into the spotlight on June 26 and 27, on the award-winning stage of Steinmetz Hall. Set in 1950s New York and inspired by the story of Romeo and Juliet, the production gave students the opportunity to experience a full theatre run— from top of curtain to final bow on a premier Orlando stage.  

Watch an interview with West Side Story director, Tony Mata here.

Pre-professional opportunities such as FTMI are designed to do more than just build resumes; they offer unique insight into the discipline, artistry and collaboration that comes with building a career in the performing arts. Participating students build real-world skills, all while developing friendships that last long after the experience ends.  

To learn more about programs offered at Dr. Phillips Center’s AdventHealth School of the Arts, click here.

Generous support for this program is made possible by Florida Division of Arts & Culture.