Assistant Professor of Musical Theater and Commercial Dance Chair at ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø’s Sands College of Performing Arts Jesse Carlo, PhD, is an inspiring force behind the institution's vibrant creative atmosphere. In his illuminating video profile, he emphasizes the invaluable exposure ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø provides to its students, allowing them to collaborate with industry luminaries, including Tony Award, Grammy Award, and Oscar winners. A unique opportunity that not only nurtures students’ talent but also fuels their passion, motivating them to take audacious steps in the competitive world of musical theater. What sets ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø’s Musical Theater program apart is its innovative Life Experience Route, a pathway that enables students to pursue their degree while taking breaks to perform on Broadway or national tours. Professor Carlo takes pride in supporting his students through this transformative journey. When these performers return to the classroom, they bring back a wealth of real-world experiences, enriching the educational environment.
April Bartlett’s career as a theatrical designer has spanned from intimate off-Broadway productions to The Today Show. When the pandemic shut down production, she began refocusing her energies and found a new way to continue telling stories by supporting the next generation of designers, makers, and artists.
Imagine dancing with Doja Cat. Now imagine doing it in front of 865,000 people. For Joanne Daquigan, Jada Clark, and Tiffani Rusell that dream became reality. Last month, they and several other members of the ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø Commercial Dance community performed alongside some heavy-hitting A-listers at MTV's VMAs.
Ka’ramuu Kush, a faculty member of the Sands College of Performing Arts, is sharing wisdom and experience gained from many years as a working actor, director, and writer with students—and has already made quite an impact.