By Kathy L. Collins
Music Showcase and the Florida Academy of the Performing Arts offer area residents the chance to experience some fun and unique classes, workshops and musical and theatre groups. All classes take place at Music Showcase located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.
Do It Yourself Interior Decorating is led by Interior Design Specialist, Charlena Beacom. Classes will be held on either Mondays from 7-9 p.m. or Wednesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Monday classes begin on February 13, March 20, April 10 and May 1. Wednesday classes begin on February 15, March 22, April 12 and May 3. Cost for the three weeks is $90.
Next, Beacom will lead a Digital Photography Class. Classes are on either Tuesday morning from 9:30-11:30 a.m. or Thursday evening class from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Session one begins February 7 or 9, session two April 4 or 6 and session three May 2 or 4. The cost is $120 per four-week session. Beacom said, “Photography creates a memory and tells a story.”
Musical Theatre is offered for students in varying age levels. For students ages five to nine, Acting Up! meets on Mondays from 5:30-7 p.m. beginning on February 20 and running through April. Performances will be held on April 21, 22, and 23. Cost is $200.
JR Showcase Players, for students ages nine and up, will meet on Thursdays from 6-8 p.m. beginning on February 16. This will run through April with performances on April 28, 29 and 30. Cost is $200.
Showcase Players, for middle and high school students, meet on Saturdays from 3-6 p.m. beginning on February 18 and run through May with performances on May 19, 20 and 21. Cost is $150.
All Musical Theatre classes are directed by Miguel Oquendo.
For students ages seven and up who like to sing, they should try Show Choir. This group combines music from all genre and decades with choreography. Rehearsals start on February 21, and meets for eight weeks from 5-6:30 p.m. Performance will be held on April 18. Cost is $150.
For children ages four to 10, Music Makers is a free workshop offered for mini musicians on the second Saturday of each month through May from 9:30-11 a.m. To register for any of the above, please call 490-2787 or visit www.faopa.org.
