Introducing a new academy, Argenta Contemporary Theatre is planning to expand its program

North Little Rock, Arkansas – The Argenta Contemporary Theatre has made the announcement that it will be introducing a new academy as part of its program expansion.

On the top level of the Thea Foundation, which is located at 401 Main Street, the Benson/McAdams Argenta Contemporary Theatre Academy will be situated in close proximity to the main location of the American Conservatory Theater (ACT).

Students who are interested in developing their skills in performing arts such as acting, singing, and dancing will have the opportunity to participate in classes, camps, and workshops at the 3700-square-foot school. It has been said by authorities from the academy that classes and trainings will be made available to students of varying ages and levels of expertise.

As a tribute to Pris Benson and Carol Ann McAdams, both of whom have since retired from their positions as drama teachers in North Little Rock, the Academy was named after them. In addition, officials mentioned that benefactors were essential in contributing to the academy.

“We are extremely grateful to our donors, who are also our friends and advisors, for their support in making The Benson/McAdams Argenta Contemporary Theatre Academy a reality,” said Alyson Courtney, Director of Development for the American Center for the Theater (ACT). “Pat Carlton wanted to acknowledge the legacies of Pris Benson and Carol Ann McAdams, and it is fitting that this academy, which will shape the future of performing arts in our region, bears their names,” said Pat Carlton. “This academy will shape the future of performances in our region.”

In addition, the academy will provide dancing instruction and vocal training at the TLM dancing studio and at the Bob Bidewell Music Studio. Both of these studios will be named in honor of the donors, Dr. Tucker Patterson and Laura Patterson, as well as Bob Bidewell.

Officials from the academy have stated that Bridget Davis, the Director of Education for the ACT, is planning additional classes for the upcoming fall semester. Davis elaborated on the pupils who could have difficulty paying the tuition and finding teachers for the learning center.

In addition, we will be able to hire qualified teaching artists who are able to set our students up for long-term success because of the long-term and generous support of individuals such as Karla and Will Feland, the City of North Little Rock, Pulaski County, and Sharon Heflin. This will ensure that no student will ever be denied admission due to the inability to pay tuition.

ACT II, also known as the Sharon Heflin Performing Arts Education Center, is located in North Little Rock and is now hosting classes for students interested in performing arts.

Please visit ArgentaContemporaryTheatre.org in order to obtain additional details regarding The Benson/McAdams Argenta Contemporary Theatre Academy programs.