After nine years at Gulfshore Ballet, Kai Perkins wanted more than anything to go to the School of American Ballet. But could she convince her mom to let her live in Manhattan at the tender age of 14?

Oasis Charter High School Theatre Director Carrie Guffy presented Ashlynn Richardson with a unique challenge. She had her conceive and install the choreography for Oasis’ spring musical, “Addams Family.” To complicate matters, Guffy cast 17 students in the roles of Addams Family Ancestors – more than double the usual number seen at equity and community theaters.

This week, one show opens, three close, eight others continue their runs and four more enjoy limited engagements at equity and community theaters from Sarasota to Marco Island.

Tracy Halloran-Scott’s son had one lofty goal for his senior year at North Fort Myers High. She did everything she could to help him achieve it.

Emma Pattee is an accomplished climate journalist who’s written for The Atlantic, The New York Times, and more. Now we hear from her about her debut novel, Tilt.

The High School Musical Theatre Awards take place at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 9 at the Barbara B Mann Performing Art Hall at FSW. Patterned after the Tony Awards, the evening features performances by each participating school along with awards in a number of categories, including Best Overall Production, Best Ensemble and Best Actor and Supporting Actor in both Male-Identifying and Female-Identifying roles.

Stage mom Jennifer Dick’s guiding principle is supporting her children’s passions. In the case of her daughter, Rilyn, that passion is theater. It’s been that way since Rilyn was 3.

This summer, the Alliance for the Arts is inviting young minds ages 3–16 to ignite their creativity, explore their passions, and dive into immersive arts experiences with a vibrant lineup of camps designed for every kind of young creator.From theatrical storytelling and hands-on art exploration to high-tech movie production and behind-the-scenes theatre design, the Alliance’s Summer Camp Series promises a season of discovery, innovation, and unforgettable fun.

Following graduation, Cotrenia Hood became a professional competitive dancer, joining American All-Star, which choreographed the pregame and halftime shows at the Super Bowl for 20 years. Four years ago, her daughter, Savannah, decided she too wanted to pursue competitive dance. Read how Hood goes about helping Savannah pursue her competitive dance dreams.

The Alliance for the Arts has appointed Michael Hebler as its new Events and Programming Director. One of his duties includes continuing the theater program once run by Theatre Conspiracy's Bill Taylor.