The Performing Arts Workshop, or PAW as it is affectionately called, was first conceived in 1993. The idea was simple; provide a learning and musical performance experience for the young people of the community. The program opened to students 8-18 who received instruction in dance, music, technical skills and acting. The three week experience culminates in a performance for the community. The enti
re program takes place at the Heritage Center Theater at Cam-Plex. PAW not only focuses on improving the students’ performance skills, it helps build life skills. Expectations for the students remain high, and the results are not disappointing. The students are taught a level of discipline and professionalism they will not experience elsewhere. The expectation is each student arrives on time and ready to work. Staff continually encourages the participants to step outside the box; to reach for a new level. Self confidence and team work are stressed. Each student is reminded that they play an important role within the production. One unique feature of this program is the staff. Not only are local professionals employed, but professionals from around the country. The diversity of the staff helps the students progress more quickly, as well as exposing them to a variety of teaching styles. The interaction between local and out of town staff strengthens PAW by exposing the Gillette and Campbell County professionals to new teaching styles. Many former students of the program have gone on to pursue the performing arts as a career both on the stage and behind the scenes. Former participants are now working successfully in many regions of the country. The skills and confidence that PAW instilled in these students has proved valuable in their continued education as well as their professional lives. Some of these students are now returning to the community to serve as part of the PAW staff. The program is coming full circle in that way, the students have now become the teachers. It is an amazing experience for the current students to see former participants who have gone on to have successful professional careers in the arts. It is a testament to PAW that these students want to give back to the program and community that once fostered their performance skills. Over the years, PAW has benefited hundreds of students in mind, body and spirit. Lives have been touched and changed forever through their participation.
