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Ekko Theatre Company Presents
Stagebound
A Musical Theatre Masterclass & Cabaret
Program Overview
Stagebound: Musical Theatre Masterclass & Cabaret is an immersive 14-week program designed for performers of all levels who are passionate about musical theatre and eager to hone their craft. Led by two industry experts, including a former Broadway performer, this unique program combines top-tier training with real-world performance opportunities.
How It Works!
You’ll be part of one of two cohorts, both working on the same set list. This gives you the chance to attend rehearsals from the other cohort, allowing you to gather even more insights and learn from different approaches. With two groups exploring the same songs, you’ll see how each performer makes the material their own.
Once enrolled, you will be assigned a song (solo, duet, or ensemble) tailored to your voice and skill level. You’ll work on your piece with our expert instructors and have the opportunity to observe and learn from the techniques shared in the program.
After the initial 10-week rehearsal period, you will perform once every two weeks at a venue in Halifax, receiving constructive feedback and coaching between performances to enhance your skills.
This structure will take place over the full 14-week period, giving you plenty of time to refine your performances and grow as an artist.
Meet Your Experts!
Julie Martell
ETC Program Director
Born and raised in Cape Breton, Julie left home and received her undergraduate honours degree at the University of Windsor, with a double major in Music and Theatre. Upon graduation she landed the part of Sophie in the musical Mamma Mia with Mirvish productions in Toronto. 18 years later she played the role of Donna (the mother) in Neptune Theatre’s production of Mamma Mia.
Other credits include Gypsy Rose Lee in Broadway’s Gypsy working alongside Bernadette Peters and Stephen Sondheim, The Sound of Music, The Last Five Years, A Night With Jason Robert Brown, Good Vibrations: The Beach Boys Musical, Beauty and the Beast, Billy Elliott, Dear Rita, Controlled Damage.
Julie also spent 9 seasons at the Shaw Festival where she had starring roles in: Sweet Charity, Ragtime, A Little Night Music, Gypsy, One Touch of Venus, The Cherry Orchard, Happy End, Belle Moral, Maria Severa, The President, The Intelligent Homosexual’s Guide, Sunday in The Park With George, Play Orchestra Play, French Without Tears, Follies: In Concert.
chuck homewood
ETC Program Music Diretor
Chuck has musically directed more than 75 productions across the country and has toured internationally including three Broadway shows. At Neptune Theatre he has musically directed Into the Woods, Frog and Toad, Sweeney Todd, West Side Story, Peter Pan, The Wizard of Oz, A Christmas Carol: The Musical, Disney’s High School Musical and Shakespeare In Love Chuck was Neptune Theatre’s Director of Education for eight years, overseeing Theatre School programs and the Young Neptune Touring Company. He has taught at the Banff Centre, Dalhousie University,Neptune Theatre School, Maritime Conservatory of the Performing Arts and the HAT Academy. In addition to conducting and arranging for musical theatre Chuck is also a busy clinician as a choral conductor, singing actor coach and collaborative pianist.
Who This Is For?
This program is open to individuals of all experience levels who are passionate about musical theatre and want to learn, grow, and perform in a welcoming, professional environment. Participants must be over the age of 16 in order to participate. Whether you’re stepping into the world of musical theatre for the first time or looking to refine your craft, our program is designed for:
Community Theatre Enthusiasts
- If you love being part of the local theatre scene and want to elevate your performance skills, this masterclass will help you shine on stage.
Aspiring Musical Theatre Performers
- Dreaming of a career in musical theatre? Gain the technical skills, confidence, and experience to take your performance to the next level.
Singers Looking to Improve Acting Skills
- Already comfortable with your voice but want to deepen your character work? Learn how to embody a role and bring emotion to every song.
Actors Wanting to Develop Their Vocal Techniques
- If acting is your strength but singing feels intimidating, this program will help you strengthen your voice and build confidence in musical performance.
Students Preparing for Musical Theatre School
- Get a head start on your training! Whether you’re planning to audition for a theatre program or currently studying musical theatre, this intensive will refine your skills and prepare you for future opportunities.
No matter your background, if you love singing, acting, and storytelling, this program is for you!
Schedule & Rates
Start Date
Wednesday March 5, 2025
Duration
14 Weeks
Rehearsal Dates & Times
Wednesdays 7:00-9:00PM
Saturdays 1:00-3:00PM
Location
St James United Church
181 Portland St, Dartmouth NS
Membership Rates
$30/week ($420 total)
Memberships are billed on a monthly basis
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Audition Information
Auditions will take place during the week of February 24, 2025. Click the button below to reserve your time!
Don’t worry about feeling stressed — everyone interested in participating will have the chance to be involved. The auditions are simply for the production team to assign everyone to the most fitting songs for the program.
Audition Details:
- Please prepare two sections of songs to showcase your voice.
- You can choose to perform either with a backing track (e.g., karaoke track) or a cappella.
- If you prefer a backing track, please bring it with you, if possible.
- Allow 10 minutes for your audition.
If you have any questions about the auditions, feel free to email us at ekko@ekkomusic.ca.
