Published: March 22, 2007 10:24 am      

Chickasaw Summer Arts Academy auditions scheduled

ADA — Do you dream about being a movie star, dancer, artist, producer, composer or famous writer? Do you wish you could talk to and learn from real professionals?

Your dream can become a reality during the third Chickasaw Summer Arts Academy beginning July 16 on the campus of East Central University in Ada. This incredible two week, action-packed opportunity offers the rare chance to experience intensive, instruction from professional instructors who excel in the arts.

"The academy creates a greater awareness of our unique culture through the promotion of artistic expression and achievement," said Bill Anoatubby, governor of the Chickasaw Nation. "We are happy to be able to offer this unique opportunity to Chickasaw and other Native American youth."

All interested students must attend one of the audition and orientation sessions to be eligible for consideration to attend the academy. The first session will be offered from 9 a.m. until noon, Saturday, April 14, in the recital hall on the first floor of the Music Education Building at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. The second audition and orientation session is scheduled from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. Saturday, May 5, in Faust Auditorium located in Faust Hall on the campus of East Central University in Ada.

Operated by the Chickasaw Nation Division of Arts and Humanities, the academy offers intensive, detailed and culturally sensitive instruction in both group and one-on-one classes in visual arts, drama, dance, literary arts, video production, vocal performance and music composition. Component sessions empower students to explore exciting opportunities in the fields of art while they gain valuable experience and professional instruction by composers, musicians, dancers, artists, performers, media experts and writers.

"This is an exciting opportunity for students interested in the arts to gain valuable experience from highly qualified and professional instructors in each field," said Lona Barrick, administrator for the division of arts and humanities. "Full commitments from prospective students begin with the audition process and are paramount to a memorable and valuable educational experience."

All students accepted into the academy are required to sign letters of commitment, attendance and code of conduct agreements.

Space is limited. Please contact Julie Burwell, special projects director, at (580) 272-5520 or Laura Morrison, arts in education manager, at (580) 332-1092 for more information about the 2007 Chickasaw Summer Arts Academy.