The musical theatre orchestra will help musicians and actors learn to perform alongside each other, Preston Page said. <\/p>\n
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North Texas Performing Arts<\/a> (NTPA) is striking a new chord in the region\u2019s arts scene with the launch of the NTPA Musical Theatre Orchestra<\/a> \u2014 the first regional orchestra of its kind in North Texas. The program expands NTPA\u2019s mission to provide exceptional educational and performance opportunities for youth and adults alike.<\/p>\n The new orchestra will be led by Senior Music Director and newly appointed Artistic Director Preston Page, whose vision is to bring student and professional musicians together in live, fully orchestrated musical theatre productions.<\/p>\n \u201cLearning to perform alongside live musicians remains an essential part of a comprehensive artistic education in musical theatre,\u201d Page said. \u201cOur audition-based program is perfect for capable musicians interested in gaining the unique experience of performing in a musical theatre pit, networking with professionals, and expanding their artistic abilities.\u201d<\/p>\n Launching with a planned eight-show season, the NTPA Musical Theatre Orchestra will serve as a cornerstone of the organization\u2019s professional-level training model. Musicians will be selected through ongoing auditions and matched with productions based on skill level and availability.<\/p>\n \u201cCreating a live-music experience for select NTPA shows will create a whole new performance experience for audiences,\u201d NTPA CEO Darrell Rodenbaugh said. \u201cIt\u2019s an exciting step forward for our theatre community.\u201d<\/p>\n The orchestra will make its official debut during NTPA Repertory Theatre\u2019s production of The Rocky Horror Show, running Oct. 24 to Nov. 2 at the Rodenbaugh Theatre in Willow Bend Center of the Art<\/a>s. The production will feature a four-piece live band as part of the cult-classic musical\u2019s high-energy score.<\/p>\n To sustain the program, NTPA is seeking community and corporate sponsors to help cover the costs of professional musicians, equipment, and training.<\/p>\n \u201cOur vision is to create a pipeline for talented young musicians to gain experience playing the standard musical theatre repertoire alongside professionals,\u201d Page said. \u201cWe welcome the patronage of anyone who believes in the power of live music.\u201d<\/p>\n