Argenta Contemporary Theatre to expand program with new academy

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Argenta Contemporary Theatre announced that it will expand its program with a new academy.

The Benson/McAdams Argenta Contemporary Theatre Academy will be located next to the ACT’s main location on the top floor of the Thea Foundation at 401 Main Street.

The 3700-square-foot academy will offer classes, camps and workshops for students aspiring to grow in performing arts like acting, singing and dancing. Academy officials said that courses and trainings will be provided for students of all ages and skill levels.

ACT officials said the academy was named in honor of retired North Little Rock drama teachers Pris Benson and Carol Ann McAdams. Officials also noted that donors helped contribute to the academy.

“We are incredibly 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,” ACT Director of Development Alyson Courtney said. “Pat Carlton wanted to recognize 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.”

The academy will also offer dance classes inside the TLM Dance Studio and vocal training inside The Bob Bidewell Music Studio, both spaces named in recognition of donors Dr. Tucker and Laura Patterson and Bob Bidewell.

Academy officials said that ACT Director of Education Bridget Davis is programming new classes for the fall. Davis spoke on students who may struggle with tuition and hiring teachers for the academy.

“Also, because of longtime, generous supporters including Karla & Will Feland, the City of North Little Rock, Pulaski County and Sharon Heflin, no student will ever be turned away because of the inability to pay tuition and we will be able to hire qualified teaching artists who can set our students up for long term success.”

Performing arts classes are currently being held in ACT II The Sharon Heflin Performing Arts Education Center in North Little Rock.

For more information on The Benson/McAdams Argenta Contemporary Theatre Academy, visit ArgentaContemporaryTheatre.org .

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