Mid-Atlantic Center for the Performing Arts

A peak at what was happening behind the scenes for the end of the year production of "A Magical Journey: Oz"

In March, MCPA Ensemble members presented their annual concert at Chesapeake Arts Center. They were joined by guests from Shenandoah University, the Susan Ina Dance Studio, Towson State University, and MCPA Hot Shots members. What a fabulous concert!

In 2009, advanced students from MCPA attended the Youth America Grand Prix ballet competition in Torrigton, CT. Congratulations to Taylor Ciampi, who placed in the top 12 for ages 8-11, Randi Wienecke who placed in the top 12 contemporary for ages 12-14, and to the Professional Division, Level 3 class who were invited to the International Finals in NYC in April. Amanda Summers attended the YAGP in Philadelphia in January, and placed in the top 12 Seniors in the classical division, and received 2nd place in the contemporary division. She also qualified for the finals in NYC.

Thanks to Steven Lapointe for the great pictures from CT!

Students can begin dancing at age 2 and a half in the MCPA Creative Movement classes, and fun classes are offered for young dancers in pre-ballet, jazz, and tap. These classes form a solid foundation for more intense training, beginning around age 8.

Just a few candids of students around the studio on a typical evening, d0ing homework, warming up before class, and just having a good time.

In December 2008, MCPA dancers were interviewed & fimed for a documentary about advanced dance students for Harford Community College. Ms. Shylo taught a great jazz class for the filming. It will air on the Harford Cable Network, beginning on March 6th.

In February, advanced MCPA students attended the Bravo Competition in Woodbridge, VA, to get some stage time before Grand Prix. They received the highest scores of the competition with their pieces "The Walk", choroegraphed by Shannon Torres, and "The Winner Is...", choreographed by Maeghan McHale. MCPA also brought home both technical excellence awards, given to Taylor Ciampi in the Jr Division, and Amanda Summers in the Sr division.

In January, MCPA dancers attanded New York City Dance Alliance in Arlington, VA. "Any Other World", choreographed by Maeghan Mchale, received the Critic's Choice award in the evening competition. Congratulations to all students who received scholarships in their classes!

So much work is involved to present our annual Nutcracker, and many people come together every year to make it happen! Here are just a few shots of how time is spent backstage for the performers and parent volunteers.