PHOENIX: Phoenix Theatre and Arizona State University (ASU)’s School of Music have announced a joint agreement to launch the New American Musical Theatre Studio. The new model of comprehensive theatre training will be the culmination of a multi-year partnership between the two organizations.

“We’re taking things to the next level,” said Michael Barnard, Phoenix Theatre’s producing artistic director, in a statement. “The New American Musical Theater Studio will set the standard for thoroughly immersive education.”

The program will give ASU students the opportunity to train alongside theatre professionals in both artistic and administrative careers. The students will also perform in professional productions at Phoenix Theatre, serve the community as part of the company’s outreach programs, and earn points toward Equity union membership. In addition, the students will have access to Phoenix Theatre’s performance spaces for student showcases, workshops, and new-work development.

The musical theatre showcase for graduating  ASU students will be held at the Phoenix Theatre this year, and the New American Musical Theatre Studio will officially launch during the theatre’s 2017-18 season with two courses.

“We are fortunate to be located in the Phoenix metropolitan area where we can partner with nationally-renowned professional arts organizations like Phoenix Theatre and Arizona Opera,” said Brian DeMaris, artistic director of Lyric Opera Theatre in the ASU School of Music. “We are excited to formalize our ongoing partnership with Phoenix Theatre, which has included shared faculty and coproductions in the past. Through the expansion of this partnership, all of our students will be able to benefit from the opportunities for professional immersion offered by Phoenix Theatre.”