Students of School of Dance Arts in Mechanicsville train with the dreams of one day performing on the Broadway stages.

On Saturday, March 13, these students moved one step closer to their dreams.

Through Broadway Connection, a company connecting students with Broadway performers, the students took part in educational master classes taught by Jeremy Duvall and Lauren Linville of the Broadway tour “Wicked.”

Broadway Connection Master Classes allow students to train with world class teachers performing in Broadway shows in the comfort of their home studio.

During the Broadway dance master classes, students polished their dance technique and received insider information on current Broadway shows and auditions.

Students learned how to stand out in front of directors, choreographers and professors and land the job or dream school.

The master classes included a Broadway Connection question-and-answer session, where students asked individual questions and received detailed advice on current auditions, Broadway trends, university programs and dance companies.

Valerie Simpson, director of School of Dance Arts, said she loves bringing in professional, Broadway caliber teachers who can offer her students another prospective to the business. She said she believes “Broadway Connection Master Classes inspire her students and bring awareness that the technique they are learning gives them many venues for their artistic abilities.”

Jennifer Jancuska and Melissa Harres, founders of Broadway Connection, said they are proud to give students a new, full-circle learning experience.

“Taking class with a current Broadway performer, gaining first-hand professional advice and then experiencing the show is a very special and inspiring opportunity for all students,” Jennifer said.

Submitted photos
Broadway came to the School of Dance Arts in Mechanicsville when performers with “Wicked” shared their expertise with students at the local studio. In the photo above, students of the School of Dance take time to pose for the camera with their “Wicked” instructors, Jeremy Duvall and Lauren Linville, who are in the back row center.