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- Rex's Exes | Studio B Performing Arts Center
Audition for Rex’s Exes, a fast-paced Southern comedy at Studio B Performing Arts. Open to actors 18+, this audition-based community production runs June 4–7 and delivers outrageous family drama and nonstop laughs. Rex's Exes - A Jones Hope Wooten Comedy Get ready for big laughs and bigger family drama in Rex’s Exes, an audition-based community comedy for actors 18 and up. Join the Verdeen cousins for a wildly entertaining production full of Southern charm and outrageous fun! The Verdeen cousins of Sweetgum, Texas are once again teetering on the brink of disaster in Rex’s Exes, a laugh-out-loud Southern comedy packed with outrageous twists and unforgettable characters. As Gaynelle stubbornly refuses to acknowledge her upcoming 50th birthday, her well-meaning cousins attempt to throw a surprise party she wants no part of. When plans abruptly shift from birthday celebration to an improvised family funeral, chaos erupts—and that’s only the beginning. Things spiral hilariously out of control when a husband presumed dead suddenly reappears, revealing romantic entanglements with each of his wife’s cousins. Add in a Cajun bounty hunter hot on his trail, a jilted bride armed with a paintball gun, and a bitter aunt bent on revenge, and the Verdeens find themselves fighting to survive yet another family catastrophe. With rapid-fire humor, over-the-top situations, and plenty of Southern sass, Rex’s Exes proves that no family gathering—birthday, wedding, or funeral—is ever truly safe from mayhem. Meet The Cast! Cee Cee Windham - Sara Martin Gaynelle Verdeen - Stori Lauritzen Jimmie Wyvette Verdeen - Emily Powell Peaches Verdeen Belrose - Eva Moresco LaMerle Verdeen Minshew - Shannan Wolter Aubrey Verdeen - Gary Walker Bitsy Hargis - Tracey Patras Theodore Rexford Belrose - Allen Horak Gentle Harmony - Lynn Chapman Mama Doll Hargis - Sara Martin Marlissa Crutchfield - Julie Aylor Wild Bill Boudreaux - Geric Poore Rex's Exes - A Jones Hope Wooten Comedy Get ready for big laughs and bigger family drama in Rex’s Exes, an audition-based community comedy for actors 18 and up. Audition this April and join the Verdeen cousins for a wildly entertaining production full of Southern charm and outrageous fun! Buy Tickets Now!
- Job Opportunities: Rex's Exes | Studio B Performing Arts Center
Studio B Performing Arts is seeking directors, designers, and technical team members for the community production of Rex's Exes. Join our creative team and help bring this hilarious southern comedy to life on stage. Rex's Exes - A Jones Hope Wooten Comedy JOB OPPORTUNITIES Be Part of the Production - Multiple Creative and Technical Positions Now Open! All members of the production team will be expected to attend meetings, rehearsals, and work days the entire run of the show April 28 - June 7. TECH BOOTH OPERATOR (LIGHT/SOUND) The Tech Booth Operator manages lighting and sound cues during rehearsals and performances to support the technical execution of each production. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Operate lighting and sound systems during tech rehearsals and performances Perform equipment checks prior to each rehearsal and show Run cues accurately and consistently Troubleshoot basic technical issues in collaboration with the Director or tech intern Maintain organization and cleanliness of the tech booth Assist with theater cleanup following performances QUALIFICATIONS: Basic knowledge of theatrical lighting and/or sound systems Ability to follow cue sheets and instructions accurately Willingness to learn Studio B’s specific equipment and systems Strong attention to detail and reliability Prior technical theater experience preferred but not required TIME COMMITMENT: Tech rehearsals All scheduled performances Pre- and post-show setup and cleanup Commitment spans the technical rehearsal period through final performance Apply Now Come work with us First name* Last name* Email* Phone* Position* Director Music Director Choreographer Stage Manager Tech Booth Operator Stage Crew Show By checking this box I acknowledge and consent to a background check. * Link to Resume/LinkedIn Apply If you do not have a link to your resume, please email your resume to studiobtheater@gmail.com Application Form
- Magic Tree House: Pirates Past Noon KIDS | Studio B Performing Arts Center
Join Studio B Performing Arts for Magic Tree House: Pirates Past Noon KIDS, a 4-week youth workshop for ages 5–11. Set sail for fun, friendship, and adventure with performances April 10–12, 2026. Magic Tree House: Pirates Past Noon KIDS SAIL AWAY ON A JOURNEY OF FRIENDSHIP, COURAGE, AND DISCOVERY A Four-Week Youth Workshop Filled with Adventure and Imagination. Set sail for an unforgettable adventure in Magic Tree House: Pirates Past Noon KIDS, adapted from Mary Pope Osborne’s beloved Magic Tree House book series. Join siblings Jack and Annie as their magical tree house whisks them away to the eighteenth-century Caribbean, where they encounter stormy seas, buried treasure, and the daring pirate Captain Bones. Along the way, they learn about friendship, courage, and the magic of imagination that brings stories to life. This 4-week youth workshop for ages 5–11 offers young performers the chance to grow their skills while having fun on stage. Meet The Cast! Annie - Cate Jack - Henry Morgan/Polly - Ryan Teeki the Seagull - Quinn Pedro the Pelican/Stinky - Gabriel Corey the Crab - Eden Stella the Starfish/Slinky - Olive First Mate - Otto Captain Bones - Ila Pinky - Aadith Blinky - Jacob Billy/Nathaniel - Hudson Molly/Wilhemina - Myra Jonah - Ayaan Jellyfish - Zoey Magic Tree House: Pirates Past Noon KIDS Join Jack and Annie on a journey to the Caribbean for Magic Tree House: Pirates Past Noon KIDS! You don't want to miss this swashbuckling musical adventure. Performances will take place April 10th - 12th 2026, with showtimes on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 PM and Sunday at 2:30 PM Buy Tickets Now!
- Disney’s The Jungle Book KIDS | Studio B Performing Arts Center
Join Studio B Performing Arts for Disney’s The Jungle Book KIDS Summer Camp, July 6–24, 2026. Ages 5–11 will sing, dance, and act their way through this jazzy, adventure-filled Disney classic. Disney’s The Jungle Book KIDS JOIN MOWGLI AND FRIENDS FOR A JAZZY JOURNEY THROUGH THE JUNGLE! A Swingin’ Summer Camp Full of Music, Friendship, and Wild Fun! The jungle is jumpin’ with rhythm and adventure in Disney’s The Jungle Book KIDS! Specially adapted from the classic Disney animated film, this lively musical follows Mowgli, a fearless human boy raised by wolves, as he sets out on a journey through the jungle with his loyal panther friend, Bagheera. Along the way, they meet the lovable bear Baloo, who teaches Mowgli the fun and freedom of “The Bare Necessities,” while the mischievous King Louie dreams of learning the secret of man’s fire. Together, they must unite their animal friends to defeat the fearsome tiger Shere Khan and bring peace back to the jungle. This three-week summer camp for ages 5–11 runs Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM–1:00 PM, from July 6–24, 2026. Campers will explore acting, singing, and dancing as they rehearse for three final performances: Friday, July 24th, at 7:30 PM; Saturday, July 25th, at 7:30 PM; and Sunday, July 26th, at 2:30 PM. On the first day, students will learn choreography, music, and lines for their camp audition—every child will be cast in the show! Tuition is $375 per student, and all campers should bring a sack lunch each day. Join us for a wild summer adventure full of friendship, laughter, and the rhythm of the jungle! Register before April 30th with code ITSSUMMERTIME26 and save 15%! Disney’s The Jungle Book KIDS The jungle is jumpin’ this summer at Studio B! Join Mowgli, Baloo, and friends in Disney’s The Jungle Book KIDS—a three-week summer camp for ages 5–11 full of music, laughter, and adventure. Register now to swing into the fun and be part of this beloved Disney tale! Register before April 30th with code ITSSUMMERTIME26 and save 15%! Register Now!
- The Addams Family - A New Musical Comedy | Studio B Performing Arts Center
Audition for Studio B Performing Arts’ The Addams Family Musical! Open to ages 12+, this fall community production runs September 25–October 4, 2026. Embrace the creepy, kooky fun on stage! The Addams Family - A New Musical Comedy JOIN THE CREEPY KOOKY, AND HILARIOUSLY HEARTFELT ADDAMS FAMILY ON STAGE! A Comical Feast That Celebrates the Wackiness in Every Family! They’re creepy and they’re kooky—mysterious and spooky—and they’re taking over the Studio B stage this fall! The Addams Family musical brings everyone’s favorite macabre family to life in a delightfully twisted story about love, loyalty, and the chaos that comes when worlds collide. Wednesday Addams, the princess of darkness, has fallen for a sweet, smart young man from a “normal” family. But when the Addamses host a dinner to meet the boyfriend’s parents, secrets are revealed, tempers flare, and hilarity ensues. This audition-based community production is open to actors ages 12 and up. Auditions will be held Saturday, August 1st, and will include cold readings from the script in small groups and 16 bars of a musical theatre song. Please bring your recorded accompaniment track, resume, audition form, headshot, and signed Studio B waiver. Auditions will be held on August 8th at 10 am. More details will be coming soon! Rehearsals will take place Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 6:30–9:00 PM, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM–1:00 PM, beginning Tuesday, August 18th, and running through Thursday, September 24th. Performances will be held September 25–27 and October 2–4, with Friday and Saturday shows at 7:30 PM and Sunday matinees at 2:30 PM. A $25 script fee will apply to all cast members. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or new to the stage, The Addams Family offers a thrilling opportunity to bring this hauntingly funny story to life with unforgettable characters, catchy songs, and plenty of dark humor. The Addams Family – A New Musical Comedy Calling all ghosts, ghouls, and musical theatre lovers! Audition for The Addams Family—Studio B’s fall community production for ages 12 and up. Join the hilariously spooky Addams clan for a show packed with laughs, heart, and hauntingly good fun. Auditions will be August 8th at 10 am. Join us and be a part of the madness! Registration Coming Soon!
- Refund & Cancellation Policy | Studio B Performing Arts Center
Read Studio B’s refund and cancellation policy. All sales are final, with limited ticket exchanges available for a small fee at least 24 hours in advance. Refund & Cancellation Policy CLEAR GUIDELINES FOR TICKET EXCHANGES & PURCHASES At Studio B Performing Arts, we strive to provide the best possible theater experience for our community. Please note that all ticket sales are final and we do not offer refunds or cancellations. If you are unable to attend a performance for any reason, you may request a ticket exchange for another seat or date of the same production, subject to availability. All exchanges must be made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled performance and require a $2 exchange fee per ticket. Our ticketing system is managed through TicketsToTheCity.com. This provider does not issue refunds or exchanges of tickets under any circumstances, including but not limited to event cancellations or postponements, seat locations, performance quality, or lost, stolen, or damaged tickets. By purchasing a ticket, you agree to assume all risks incidental to the event and to look solely to the event sponsor (Studio B) for any exchange options. Please also note that donations processed through this system will appear as “Tickets to the City” on your card statement. Studio B, the Highland Village Parks Foundation, and TicketsToTheCity.com are not responsible for the actions, products, or services of any third parties connected with an event. By purchasing a ticket or making a donation, you consent to receive email communications about your purchase and future events, with the option to unsubscribe at any time. Questions? If you have any questions or concerns, please email studiobtheater@gmail.com or call 972-966-2787 for assistance.
- Job Opportunities: Jungle Book Kids | Studio B Performing Arts Center
Studio B Performing Arts is seeking creative team members for Disney's The Jungle Book KIDS summer camp production. Join us in guiding young performers as they bring this lively jungle adventure to the stage. Disney's The Jungle Book Kids JOB OPPORTUNITIES DIRECTOR MUSIC DIRECTOR CHOREOGRAPHER STAGE MANAGER TECH BOOTH OPERATOR STAGE CREW Be Part of the Production - Multiple Creative and Technical Positions Now Open! All members of the production team will be expected to attend meetings, rehearsals, and work days the entire run of the show July 6 - July 24. DIRECTOR The Director is responsible for the artistic vision, leadership, and overall execution of a Studio B production, workshop, or camp. This role oversees rehearsals, staff coordination, communication with families, and ensures a positive, organized, and safe experience for all participants. Director KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Plan and lead auditions, casting, and rehearsals within approved schedules Interpret scripts and oversee creative direction for blocking, pacing, and storytelling Coordinate with Music Director, Choreographer, Stage Manager, interns, and volunteers Design and oversee sets, props, and costuming within approved budgets Communicate regularly with parents, cast, and Studio B staff regarding schedules, needs, and updates Supervise rehearsals, performances, and backstage operations Ensure adherence to Studio B policies, safety procedures, and behavior expectations Oversee performances, strike, cleanup, and proper storage of all production materials Complete required administrative tasks including invoices, Nellie ballot submissions, and key returns QUALIFICATIONS: Prior directing experience in theater, musical theater, or performing arts (community or educational setting preferred) Strong leadership, organization, and communication skills Experience working with children and/or adult performers in a structured environment Ability to manage rehearsals, volunteers, and creative staff effectively Knowledge of stage etiquette, rehearsal processes, and production timelines Commitment to maintaining a positive, safe, and inclusive learning environment Ability to work within a defined budget and follow organizational policies TIME COMMITMENT: Attendance at required production meetings and auditions Regular rehearsals throughout the full rehearsal period Tech week and all scheduled performances Post-show strike and administrative wrap-up Time commitment varies by production but typically spans several weeks Apply Now MUSIC DIRECTOR The Music Director leads all musical elements of a production, ensuring cast members are confident, prepared, and musically cohesive. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Teach and rehearse all vocal and musical components of the show Interpret and prepare music and sound cues as needed Attend auditions, callbacks, rehearsals, and performances Collaborate with the Director and Choreographer on rehearsal scheduling Warm up the cast prior to each performance Provide rehearsal materials and recordings for cast practice Support casting decisions and production planning as requested QUALIFICATIONS: Strong musical background with experience teaching vocals and ensemble music Ability to work with performers of varying ages and skill levels Familiarity with musical theater repertoire and rehearsal techniques Strong collaboration and communication skills Experience accompanying or preparing rehearsal tracks preferred TIME COMMITMENT: Auditions and callbacks (as required) Music rehearsals according to the production schedule Attendance at all scheduled rehearsals involving music All performances and pre-show cast warm-ups Full commitment for the duration of the production period Apply Now Music Director CHOREOGRAPHER The Choreographer designs, teaches, and refines all movement and dance elements for a production while working collaboratively with the creative team. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Attend auditions, callbacks, and production meetings Create choreography appropriate for cast skill levels and stage space Teach and rehearse all dance numbers Collaborate with Director and Music Director on scheduling and staging Fine-tune choreography throughout the rehearsal process Attend performances to support cast and backstage needs Record choreography for at-home practice and review QUALIFICATIONS: Dance and movement experience appropriate to musical theater productions Ability to teach choreography clearly and safely Experience adapting choreography for different ages and ability levels Strong collaboration skills with directors and music staff Knowledge of stage spacing and movement in theatrical settings TIME COMMITMENT: Auditions, callbacks, and production meetings Choreography rehearsals as scheduled Tech rehearsals and all performances Availability throughout the rehearsal and performance period Apply Now Choreographer STAGE MANAGER The Stage Manager ensures rehearsals and performances run smoothly by managing schedules, communication, backstage operations, and technical coordination. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Prepare rehearsal materials, scripts, and space setup Track attendance, conflicts, blocking, cues, and notes Maintain order and efficiency during rehearsals Coordinate props, sets, and backstage logistics Call cues, manage timing, and communicate with tech and front of house teams Supervise backstage operations during performances Oversee cleanup, reset, strike, and proper storage of all materials Assist with safety, emergencies, and parent communication as needed QUALIFICATIONS: Strong organizational and multitasking skills Previous stage management or theater production experience preferred Ability to manage schedules, cues, and backstage operations Clear verbal communication and leadership skills Ability to remain calm and professional in fast-paced environments TIME COMMITMENT: Rehearsals throughout the rehearsal schedule Tech week and all performances Strike and post-show cleanup Must be available for the full run of the production Apply Now Stage Manager TECH BOOTH OPERATOR (LIGHT/SOUND) The Tech Booth Operator manages lighting and sound cues during rehearsals and performances to support the technical execution of each production. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Operate lighting and sound systems during tech rehearsals and performances Perform equipment checks prior to each rehearsal and show Run cues accurately and consistently Troubleshoot basic technical issues in collaboration with the Director or tech intern Maintain organization and cleanliness of the tech booth Assist with theater cleanup following performances QUALIFICATIONS: Basic knowledge of theatrical lighting and/or sound systems Ability to follow cue sheets and instructions accurately Willingness to learn Studio B’s specific equipment and systems Strong attention to detail and reliability Prior technical theater experience preferred but not required TIME COMMITMENT: Tech rehearsals All scheduled performances Pre- and post-show setup and cleanup Commitment spans the technical rehearsal period through final performance Apply Now Tech Booth STAGE CREW/VOLUNTEERS/YOUTH VOLUNTEERS Stage Crew members support the technical and logistical needs of productions by assisting with backstage and onstage operations. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Assist with set construction, prop handling, and backstage organization Perform scene changes and operate special effects as needed Follow direction from the Stage Manager and Director Maintain a quiet, professional backstage environment Prepare the stage before performances and reset after each show Support strike, cleanup, and proper storage of production materials QUALIFICATIONS: Ability to follow directions and work as part of a team Willingness to perform physical tasks such as moving set pieces and props Dependability and punctuality For youth volunteers, ability to work under adult supervision Prior backstage experience helpful but not required TIME COMMITMENT: Dress rehearsals and all performances Additional rehearsals as requested Strike following final performance Commitment varies based on production needs Apply Now Stage Crew Come work with us First name* Last name* Email* Phone* Position* Director Music Director Choreographer Stage Manager Tech Booth Operator Stage Crew Show By checking this box I acknowledge and consent to a background check. * Link to Resume/LinkedIn Apply If you do not have a link to your resume, please email your resume to studiobtheater@gmail.com Application Form
- Board of Directors | Studio B Performing Arts Center
Meet the dedicated Board of Directors at Studio B Performing Arts Center. Discover how this team leads our non-profit organization. Meet Our Board of Directors GUIDING THE VISION, SUPPORTING THE MISSION The Board of Directors at Studio B Performing Arts is made up of dedicated volunteer community members who share a passion for the arts. They provide guidance, support, and oversight to ensure Studio B continues to grow as a place where creativity thrives. Through their leadership, we are able to keep the arts accessible, impactful, and central to our community. Sasha Taylor | President Sasha and her four daughters are Lewisville residents and have been actively involved in Studio B since 2012. She graduated from the University of Greenwich in London, has a background in software support management, and 20 years of experience on non-profit boards. As a parent whose children grew up on the Studio B stage, she is dedicated to ensuring the theatre remains a place where creativity flourishes. Violet Goforth | Treasurer Violet was part of Studio B from 2013–2015, directing and choreographing a variety of productions. She returned to Studio B in 2024 with Into The Woods Jr. She’s worked at the regional and community level and taught theatre in Frisco ISD. She enjoys improv, lighting and set design. Offstage, Violet has accounting experience in both the non-profit and corporate worlds. Karen Lott | Secretary Karen is a graduate of Texas A&M and lives in Lewisville. She has been involved with several other non-profits over the years and has been part of the Studio B family since 2012. Behind the scenes is Karen's favorite way to be involved in a production and her favorite part of Studio B is watching people of all ages learn and grow and try new things! Elizabeth Watson | Advisor Elizabeth has been involved with Studio B since 2010. In that time, she has taught classes, been a part of countless production teams in a variety of roles, served as the Artistic Director, and currently is a part of the Board of Directors. Elizabeth holds a bachelor of music with an emphasis in voice with a teaching certificate. She currently teaches 2nd grade in Coppell ISD. Karen Tipton | Advisor Karen's education background is in Music, Art and Theatre. She enjoyed being a professional storyteller for over 15 years with emphasis on curriculum enrichment for elementary schools. Karen has been acting, directing, set producing, and costuming at Studio B since 2004. "With each production, I have been truly blessed to work with amazingly talented actors and crews of all ages!" DeAnna McDearmont | Consultant to the Board DeAnna was actively involved with Studio B from 2004 to 2013, serving as Executive Director and directing numerous productions, including her favorites Willy Wonka, Lion King, Jr., and Alice in Wonderland, Jr. Since relocating to Sulphur Springs in 2013, she has continued to support the theater when available and takes pride in seeing its ongoing growth and success. Shayleigh Ward | Consultant to the Board Shayleigh has been a part of Studio B since 2016. Her passion for theatre and arts education led her to pursue her Bachelor's in Theatre Performance and Directing. She loves working with students and is always impressed by their dedication and talent. Do You Have Questions? Interested in donating in other ways? Email studiobtheater@gmail.com and let us know your area of interest.
- Buy Tickets | Studio B Performing Arts Center Productions
Reserve your seats online for Studio B productions. Choose your seating, enjoy an intimate theater experience, and support community performing arts. Get Your Tickets! GET READY FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE PERFORMANCE! There are two ways to purchase tickets for Studio B’s productions. No other forms of ticket requests will be honored. Please do not email the office, text or Facebook your ticket requests. PLEASE NOTE IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS GETTING YOUR ONLINE “CHOOSE YOUR OWN SEATS” TO WORK, PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU ARE USING THE LATEST INTERNET BROWSER AND THAT YOU HAVE DISABLED YOUR POP UP BLOCKER. IF “CHOOSE YOUR OWN SEAT” DOES NOT WORK FOR YOU, TRY USING THE “BEST AVAILABLE” OPTION. To Purchase Tickets: 1. ONLINE Powered by TicketsToTheCity.com: When purchasing online, you will be able to select your reserved seating. A small service charge applies to each ticket (between $1–$1.50). Upon arrival, we only need the name on the ticket order, printing or scanning tickets is not required. Reserve your seats online today! 2. WILL CALL Tickets may be purchased as “general admission” 45 minutes before any performance unless the performance is sold out. Seats will not be reserved. In the event that a performance is sold out, a waiting list will be started 45 minutes before the show begins. To be added to the waiting list for available seating, you must come to the theater in person. Please note that there are NO REFUNDS for any reason. Ticket exchanges will be done by the discretion of the box office staff and are subject to a $2.00 per ticket exchange fee. Contact studiobtheater@gmail.com with questions or concerns about tickets. Everyone attending the show will need a ticket to enter the theater for a performance, including children of all ages. No exceptions. Studio B is a family theater, however, please keep in mind that not all shows will be appropriate for all ages due to content and/or length. It is not recommended to bring children under the age of two to any performance. We ask that you take noisy children and infants out of the theater immediately for the comfort of other audience members. Studio B asks that you check in at the box office before the performance. Unclaimed tickets may be sold to waiting patrons ten minutes before the show begins without an offer to refund your tickets. Late comers will be seated at the discretion of the box office staff or during intermission. If you arrive late, you are not guaranteed a seat. No photography or videotaping allowed during performances. All electronic devices including phones should be kept off during performances. For the quickest assistance with ticket orders or questions, please email us at studiobtheater@gmail.com . You may also reach us by phone at (972) 966-2787, though response times by phone may vary depending on availability. Rex's Exes - A Jones Hope Wooten Comedy Get ready for big laughs and bigger family drama in Rex’s Exes, an audition-based community comedy for actors 18 and up. Tickets will be on sale soon for this wildly entertaining production full of Southern charm and outrageous fun! Buy Tickets Now!
- Reviews | What Our Community Says About Studio B Performing Arts Center
Hear from audiences, families, and performers about their experiences at Studio B. Discover why our community celebrates our productions and programs. What Everyone Is Saying STORIES OF INSPIRATION, JOY, AND LASTING MEMORIES At Studio B, the heart of our success lies in the experiences shared by our audience members, families, and performers. Time and again! Guests tell us how our productions, classes, and community events have made a lasting impression on their lives. From the excitement of a child’s first role on stage to the thrill of attending a high-quality performance in an intimate setting, our reviews reflect the passion and dedication that define Studio B. These testimonials highlight more than just applause—they speak to the welcoming atmosphere, the creativity of our productions, and the positive impact our theater has on the community. We are proud that so many families, students, and patrons take the time to share their experiences with us, offering a glimpse into the difference Studio B makes both on and off the stage. Every kind word encourages us to continue our mission of fostering a love for the performing arts and creating unforgettable memories for all who walk through our doors.
- Studio B Performing Arts Center - Our History and Mission
Discover the history and mission behind Studio B. Learn how this fuels our commitment to bringing the highest quality theater experience to our community. Visit us to find out more! Behind the Curtain OUR HISTORY & MISSION Our Theater-The Marilyn Nelson Theater at Studio B Performing Arts Center Studio B Performing Arts Center has been providing live theater, acting classes, and workshops in The Center since 1999. During the first year, Studio B was under the direction of our first Artistic Director, Pamela Putnam Whittaker who had just twelve students with a desire to perform. When Studio B began in 1999, it was part of The Academy of Fine Arts, which was owned and operated by Sarah Tedesco, whose family (The Nelsons) donated the building and land for its use as the academy. The theater itself was dedicated to Mrs. Tedesco's mother, Marilyn Nelson, who was instrumental in bringing the arts to the community. The very first show Studio B performed with the Academy of Fine Arts was Willy Wonka. Soon, The Academy of Fine Arts closed and had left the community without a place where children and teens could participate in drama and musical theater so with a donation from the Attrell family to purchase costumes and props, a small drama program was developed with Pamela at the lead. Jim Attrell chose the name Studio B for the group. That first summer was a small production of Sleeping Beauty using the lunchroom of a local middle school for its performances. Small theater classes were conducted in the Highland Village Fire Department’s meeting room and in the spring, classes were moved to the more spacious Highland Village Police Training room at City Hall. Two years later, the Highland Village Parks Foundation bought a large building (the same building where the Academy of Fine Arts was housed) to house a Teen Center and Studio B. A small stage (much smaller than the one today), space for costumes and props, and rooms for drama classes were provided. The first community musical theater production on this stage was Annie. With a permanent home, a dedicated space, and endless dedication to the arts and to families, Studio B was able to grow and flourish until it is now recognized as one of the premiere community theaters in the area. The theater went from a few classes and one summer production to classes for students ages 4 to adult, 6 children’s productions, multiple summer workshops, adult productions, and community theater productions. Many of the young drama students have grown up and become successful theatre professionals or have continued their love of the arts in other ways. Thanks to The Highland Village Parks Foundation, Pamela Putnam Whittaker, The Attrel, Tedesco and Nelson families, the City of Highland Village, Highland Village Parks and Recreation, The Academy of Fine Arts, and the families of those original drama students, Studio B was established and continues to serve the local community with classes, children’s productions, and community theatre productions. Pamela Putnam Whittaker was at the helm of Studio B until she moved in 2007 and Robin Hackett was hired as Artistic Director. DeAnna McDearmont was hired as Managing Director alongside Ms. Hackett and soon after took over the role of Executive Director until the summer of 2013. During this time we expanded the offerings of Studio B with more classes, workshops and productions and worked to bring much-needed technology and an online presence to the theater. Jen Adame was named Executive Director in the summer of 2013 and soon after, Elizabeth Watson, who served as a director and instructor stepped in as Artistic Director. She was integral in running the theatre and continued to help it to grow until 2018 when Studio B shifted to an all-volunteer board of directors. Over the 25 plus years of Studio B, we have many, many individuals and families who have volunteered their time and resources to our theater. Our theater could not function without those who have spent countless hours directing, teaching, volunteering backstage, building sets, painting, making props and costumes, running fundraisers, sponsoring and running the box office. Today, Studio B is still run by an all-volunteer board but the mission and objectives are the same as they were in 1999. Studio B continues to grow and still strives to maintain a family-friendly environment while providing the local community with quality live theater throughout the year as well as providing top-notch theater training to students of all ages. OUR MISSION Our mission, since 1999, is to encourage participation and appreciation of theatre, music, and the arts overall. Studio B strives to foster creativity and develop skills in acting, musical theatre, voice, dance, script development, and all around knowledge of the stage and theatre. Studio B prepares students for further studies in this genre and genres associated with it. Through classes, workshops and productions, we endeavor to create an atmosphere of creativity, imagination, collaboration and independent thinking. Through performing arts, the young and old alike can build self-esteem and confidence. Most importantly, Studio B unites the community and brings families together.
- Support Studio B Performing Arts Center - Donate Today
Support the Arts at Studio B by donating. Your contribution to Studio B helps sustain our nonprofit mission. Learn more about how to help today! Support the Arts at Studio B INVEST IN CREATIVITY, COMMUNITY, & THE NEXT GENERATION OF PERFORMERS At Studio B, EVERY gift makes a difference. As a nonprofit community theater, we rely on the generosity of individuals, families, and businesses to continue providing high-quality productions, classes, and performance opportunities for all ages. Your support helps us not only bring stories to life on stage, but also nurture the confidence, creativity, and teamwork skills of our students. There are many ways to contribute. Become a sponsor of the Nellie Awards and celebrate excellence in local theater. Participate in our yearly Set Paint Drive to help cover the costs of materials for each new show. Show your ongoing commitment by becoming a Show Supporter Sponsor or investing in One-Year Business Advertising to promote your company while supporting the arts. Of course, monetary donations of any size are always appreciated and directly fuel the programs, performances, and community outreach that make Studio B a cornerstone of Highland Village. When you donate, you become part of something bigger—helping us create memorable experiences, celebrate local talent, and inspire the next generation of performers. Together, we can keep the arts thriving in our community. DONATE NOW! DONATE by Venmo DONATE by Paypal Do You Have Questions? Interested in donating in other ways? Email studiobtheater@gmail.com and let us know your area of interest.
