THE MUSIC HALL ACADEMY NEWS – 2026

Hispanic Heritage Month 2026

Theater and dance students performed at the Tarrytown & Sleepy Hollow Farmers Market Heritage Hispanic Month event in Patriot’s Park on September 19, 2026.

Summer Camp 2026: Circus Arts Camp Week 4

Students participating in the sold-out Circus Arts Camp Week 4 practiced all week and then performed for friends and family on August 28, 2026. The camp, designed for 1st-8th graders, was presented in collaboration with Westchester Circus Arts.

Summer Camp 2026: Dance Intensive Camp

Students explored ballet, tap, jazz, and musical theatre dance styles in this comprehensive dance camp, which culminated in a performance on August 28, 2026.

Summer Camp 2026: Circus Arts Camp Week 3

Students participating in the sold-out Circus Arts Camp Week 3 practiced all week and then performed for friends and family on August 21, 2026. The camp, designed for 1st-8th graders, was presented in collaboration with Westchester Circus Arts. Photo: Susan Nagib

Summer Camp 2026: The Sound Of Music Youth Edition

The sold-out, two-week Sound of Music Youth Edition Camp, designed for 1st-8th graders, culminated in a performance on August 21, 2026. Students also made crafts and participated in theater games.

Summer Camp 2026: Circus Arts Camp Week 2

Students participating in the sold-out Circus Arts Camp Week 2 practiced all week and then performed for friends and family on August 14, 2026. The camp, designed for 1st-8th graders, was presented in collaboration with Westchester Circus Arts.

Summer Camp 2026: Storybook Theater Camp

The sold-out Storybook Theater Camp, taught by Broadway’s Jill Geddes, encouraged children to bring their favorite books to life through singing, dancing and acting the week of August 14, 2026.

Summer Camp 2026: Circus Arts Camp Week 1

Students participating in the sold-out Circus Arts Camp Week 1 practiced all week and then performed for friends and family on August 7, 2026. The camp, designed for 1st-8th graders, was presented in collaboration with Westchester Circus Arts.

Summer Camp 2026: Jungle Book Kids

The sold-out, one-week Jungle Book Kids camp was performed by 2nd-8th graders on August 7, 2026.

Summer Camp 2026: Magic Movie Film

Led by Heather Casseri, this film intensive camp was a hoot! Students learned all about filmmaking, and screened their film for friends and family on July 31, 2026.

Summer Camp 2026: 13 The Musical

The sold-out, one week camp of 13 The Musical involved students in grades 5-10 and culminated in a performance on July 31, 2026. Photo: Susan Nagib

Summer Camp 2026: The Diary Of A Wimpy Kid

The sold-out, one-week Diary of a Wimpy Kid summer camp involved students in grades 2-8. The performance took place on Friday, July 24, 2026. Photo: Susan Nagib

Summer Camp 2026: Cinderella Youth Edition

The sold-out, two-week Cinderella Youth Edition summer camp gave students in grades 2-8 the opportunity to participate in singing, dancing and acting as well as STEM and theater-related projects. The performance took place on Friday, July 17, 2026. Photo: Susan Nagib.

Summer Camp 2026: Annie Jr

Summer officially kicked off on June 28 with the sold-out, one-week camp of Annie Jr! The 2nd-8th graders performed for friends and family on July 3, 2026. Photo: Susan Nagib

Community Block Party Performance 2026

On Sunday, June 28, Main Street was closed to vehicular traffic and Music Hall Academy students performed pieces from their repertoire at the Community Block Party.

Year-End Recital 2026: Dance

On Tuesday, June 23, students of Westchester Dance Artists and The Music Hall Academy held a year-end dance recital at the Music Hall, encompassing ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, lyrical and theater.

Profesional Production 2026: Annie

Over 300 girls ages 8-13 from all over the tri-state area auditioned for the roles of Annie and the Orphans in the professional and full-length production of Annie on June 17 and 18, 2026 at The Tarrytown Music Hall! There was so much excitement in the air and the talent was really something! 100 students were called back on June 22. The adult roles will be played by Broadway & professional performers and the show will open in November 2026.

Masterclass 2026: Broadway’s Elizabeth Racanelli of Six

Elizabeth Racanelli, the resident choreographer of Six on Broadway, gave a fantastic Master Class to Academy students on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at The Music Hall.

Junior Theater Production 2026: High School Musical Jr

Students in 3rd-8th grades performed in High School Musical Jr on Wednesday, June 10 and Saturday, June 13 at The Music Hall Academy. A big shout out to the Cast, Crew and Creative Team, especially to all of the college theater major students, who are helping this summer at The Music Hall Academy! Photo: Rohanna Mertens

Street Fair 2026

What a fun day! Students and teachers of The Music Hall Academy and Westchester Dance Artists gave a day-long performance at The Tarrytown Street Fair on Sunday, June 7, 2026 in front of The Veterans Memorial Building aka The Hillcrest Theater, where The Music Hall intends to open an additional performing arts educational center. Thank you to The Sleepy Hollow Tarrytown Chamber of Commerce, the students, teachers, crew, and everyone who made the event possible!

Spanish Theater Production 2026: The Addams Family

The Addams Family in Spanish was performed by area 5th-10th grade native speakers and dual language students. The musical, sung and acted all in Spanish, was directed by Broadway professionals Lauryn Ciardullo and Evy Ortiz, and took place on Thursday, June 4 at The Music Hall. Photo: Margaret Fox

Year-End Recitals 2026: Aerial Silks

Aerial Silks students, under the tutelage of Angela Attia, Brianna Mae and HJ Farr, showcased what they had learned this year on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 on the Music Hall stage.

Year-End Recitals 2026: Music & Voice

The Mozartina Musical Arts Conservatory & Music Hall Academy Music and Voice Recitals took place on Sunday, May 31 at 12pm, 3pm, 4:15pm, 6pm and 7pm at The Tarrytown Music Hall.

The Mozartina, Tarrytown’s first music and dance school, was founded by the Ringeisens – Helen (pianist) and Berthold (college professor who spoke ten languages) – in 1976 and is celebrating its 50th anniversary! Over the past five decades, the school has served thousands of children and adults and sent many students off to pursue careers in the performing arts.

Helen still teaches piano at the Mozartina and violinist and mandolinist Joyce Balint, the former mandolin soloist with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, is also celebrating her 50th anniversary with the school.

In 1980, Helen and Berthold, along with Raymond Bowles and Morton Epstein, were instrumental in saving The Tarrytown Music Hall from demolition, against all odds. Today, The Music Hall is a nationally-recognized nonprofit venue, providing professional performances, performing arts education and historic preservation to 100,000 people in the tri-state area and beyond.

Masterclass 2026: Broadway’s Jenny DiNoia of Wicked & Paul Peglar

We were so honored to have Jenny DiNoia & Paul Peglar for a Master Class at The Tarrytown Music Hall Academy on Saturday, May 16! Jenny portrayed Elphaba on Broadway and has performed the role in more companies and countries than any other actress in the show’s history. It was a beautiful afternoon of music, dance and the sharing of wisdom.

Teen Theater Production 2026: Into The Woods Jr

Students in grades 7-10 performed Into The Woods Jr on Thursday, April 14 and Saturday, April 16 at The Tarrytown Music Hall. The musical was directed by Broadway’s Lauryn Ciardullo. Photo: Susan Nagib.

Spring Break Camp 2026: SpongeBob Youth Edition

Students in grades 2-8 sang, danced and created sets in The Music Hall Academy’s Spring Break Camp of SpongeBob Youth Edition during the week of March 30-April 3. The musical was directed by Broadway’s Lauryn Ciardullo and the students performed on April 3 on the Tarrytown Music Hall’s stage.

Winter Break Camp 2026: Madagascar Jr

Students in grades 2-8 sang and danced in the Academy’s Madagascar Jr Winter Break Camp on February 16-20, 2026.

Academy Benefit: Broadway Rocks

On February 1, 2026, Broadway performers Brennyn Lark (Les Miserables), Jelani Remy (The Lion King), Merritt David Janes (School of Rock), Susie Pepper (I Can Seen Your Voice), and Academy students gave a benefit performance at The Music Hall.

Free School Theater Residences 2025-2026: Willy Wonka Jr

Long-time Music Hall supporter and volunteer Dean Gallea, center, made a lead gift of $3000 towards New Wireless Microphones for Music Hall Academy students in 2025. His donation sparked a 4-month campaign that led to $39,000 of donations from generous community members, making the purchase of 32 new, state-of-the-art Wireless Microphones for Academy students possible.

The New Wireless Microphones were used for the very first time in January 2026 during the Free School Theater Residencies of Willy Wonka Jr. Over 1000 children this year and thousands more to come will be heard and able to explore the performing arts with professional equipment.

Free School Residences 2025-2026: Willy Wonka Jr

In January 2026, 130 3rd-8th grade students from Sleepy Hollow Middle and Washington Irving Schools performed Willy Wonka Jr. Directed by Academy Director Kevin J Kearins, the musical was a FREE School Theater Residency that the Music Hall Academy offered The Public Schools of the Tarrytowns, and was a nod to William Wallace, the candy maker who built the Music Hall 140 years ago. Photos: Susan Nagib

The Tarrytown Music Hall 2025 Annual Report

Click HERE to view The Tarrytown Music Hall 2025 Annual Report – it covers the many happenings at The Music Hall in 2025, including the Music Hall’s 140th birthday celebration and the acquisition of the Hillcrest Theater for the purpose of expanding our educational programs.

December Break Camp 2025: Frozen Jr

Frozen Jr was our last camp of 2025 and our first show of 2026! The sold-out camp was directed by Broadway’s Lauryn Ciardullo and featured children in grades 2-8. Photo: Susan Nagib

Free School Theater Residencies: Willy Wonka Jr

The Music Hall Academy has been offering The Public Schools of the Tarrytowns free school theater residencies for many years. On December 15 and 16, over 100 3rd-8th graders from Washington Irving School and Sleepy Hollow Middle School auditioned for Willy Wonka Jr. The performances will take place in January on the Music Hall stage.

New Educational Building: The Hillcrest Theater

On December 10, 2025, The Music Hall purchased The Hillcrest Theater located at 57 Main Street, also known as The Veteran’s Memorial Building for the purpose of establishing a Center For Performing Arts Education. The Hillcrest Theater was built in 1912 as a movie theater and was purchased by former Music Hall owner Robert Goldblatt in the 1920’s, presumably to squash the competition. Goldblatt sold the building to the Veterans in the 1950’s for $1. We were hoping it would be returned to the Music Hal for the same amount, but no such luck – it passed to Mt Kisco’s Diamond Properties, which sold the building to the Music Hall for $1 with many zeros behind it. The building will require about $2 million of work until it is operable. Naming rights are up for grabs!

We grateful to long-time Music Hall Member Peter Fisch, who is a partner in the Real Estate Department of Manhattan’s Paul Weiss Law Firm. Paul Weiss donated ALL time and services of Peter and his colleague Konstantine Tettonis, making it possible for the Music Hall to acquire The Hillcrest Theater. We would also like to thank Michael J Roberts Esq, Chief Operating Officer of Royal Abstract Corporation for assisting with the Hillcrest Theater transaction. Photo: Susan Nagib

Leslie Odom Jr Meet & Greet

We were so honored to have multi-award winning Broadway star Leslie Odom Jr on December 6, 2025 at the nonprofit Tarrytown Music Hall! His incredible performance put us all in a wonderful, holiday mood and he was so kind to take time to greet Music Hall Academy students and friends after the show. Needless to say, they were bursting with excitement!! Thank you, Leslie, for a VERY special night!

Tree Lighting Ceremony 2025

Music Hall Academy students sang and provided the entertainment for the Annual Tarrytown Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 6, 2025 in Patriot’s Park, officially kicking off the Holiday Season.

Junior Theater Production 2025: Shrek Jr

Shrek Jr was performed by students in 3rd-8th grade on November 9, 2025 to a very enthusiastic crowd. We broke audience records on this show! The musical was directed by Broadway’s Lauryn Ciardullo and we are still humming the tunes! Photo: Susan Nagib

The Tarrytown Halloween Parade 2025

Hundreds of Music Hall Academy students, parents and volunteers adorned costumes and took to the street to tell the story of The Wizard of Oz from start to finish on October 25, 2025.

Academy students also sang and danced for an open house performance on the Music Hall stage earlier in the day.

A special shout out to Lola, a Music Hall Academy student who insisted on being The Music Hall this year and led the Music Hall Academy in The Tarrytown Halloween Parade! Her costume, beautifully hand crafted by her mom, has so many details like posters of her favorite shows (including The Wizard of Oz, of course), the current Halloween decorations on The Music Hall, images of people creating music, theater and dance inside, and real lighting.

A huge thank you to The Tarrytown Halloween Committee, the Police Department, the Recreation Department, the DPW and The Music Hall staff for making the Parade possible!

Teen Theater Production 2025: Ride The Cyclone

Two casts of students in 7th-12th grades performed the musical, Ride The Cyclone on October 23 and 25 respectively. Ride the Cyclone is a quirky Canadian musical by Jacob Richmond and Brooke Maxwell about six teenagers from a chamber choir who die in a roller coaster accident and wake up in limbo, where a mechanical fortune teller offers one of them a chance to return to life by telling their life through song. It’s known for its uniquee blend of dark comedy, poignant themes of life and death, diverse musical styles (one for each character), and cult following, exploring identity and what makes a life well-lived.

The musical was directed by Broadway’s Lauryn Ciardullo and we found this musical to be a very special, bonding experience. Photo: Susan Nagib

The Headless Horseman happened to come to The Tarrytown Music Hall Academy on October 20 and Kennedy and Linnea, who played the headless Jane Doe in Ride The Cyclone, were delighted to meet someone in a similar predicament.

Summer Camp 2025: Circus Arts Camp Week 4

The sold-out Circus Arts Camp Week 4, held in collaboration with Westchester Circus Arts, ran from August 25-29 and challenged 1st-8th graders in various circus skills. The students showcased what they learned on August 29. This was the 10th and last camp of the summer season at The Music Hall Academy. Now back to school!

Summer Camp 2025: The Lion King

The sold-out Lion King Camp, directed by Broadway’s Lauryn Ciardullo, involved giraffes, zebras, lions and a multitude of other singing and dancing animals. The 1st-8th graders attending the week-long camp performed on August 29 on the Music Hall stage.

Summer Camp 2025: Circus Arts Camp Week 3

The sold-out Circus Arts Camp Week 3 took place from August 18-22 and students performed for friends and family on August 22. The camp, in collaboration with Westchester Circus Arts, included aerial silks, lyra, tightrope, juggling and a more. Photo: Susan Nagib

Summer Camp 2025: Storybook Theater Camp

Under the skillful guidance of Broadway’s Jill Geddes, young children in Kindergarten through 3rd grade brought their favorite books to life through singing, dancing and acting in this weeklong camp. The students performed for friends and family on August 22 on the Music Hall stage.

Summer Camp 2025: Dance Intensive Camp

Campers in grades 4-12 had the opportunity to explore many styles of dance in this week-long intensive dance camp taught by Broadway professionals Lauryn Ciardullo and Jon Drake. The dancers performed on the Music Hall stage on August 22.

Summer Camp 2025: Circus Arts Camp Week 2

The sold-out Circus Arts Camp Week 2 took place from August 11-15 and students performed for friends and family on August 15. The camp, in collaboration with Westchester Circus Arts, included aerial silks, lyra, tightrope, unicycling, juggling and a lot more.

Summer Camp 2025: Newsies Jr

Campers involved in the sold-out Newsies Jr summer camp rehearsed from August 11-15, 2025 and performed on Friday, August 15. The camp was directed by Broadway’s Lauryn Ciardullo. Photo: Susan Nagib

Teen Production 2025: Once Upon a One More Time

Award-winning Teens performed in the Westchester premiere of Once Upon a One More Time, a Broadway musical based on the music of Britney Spears, on August 8 and 9. The production was directed by Jordan Singer, choreographed by Deb Toteda and accompanied by a live, professional band under the direction of Stephen Ferri. Photo: Beth Singer

Summer Camp 2025: Circus Arts Camp Week 1

The sold-out Circus Arts Camp Week 1 took place from August 4-8 and students performed for friends and family on August 8. The camp, in collaboration with Westchester Circus Arts, was expanded to include aerial silks, lyra, tightrope, unicycling, juggling and a lot more.

Summer Camp 2025: Annie Jr

The sold-out Annie Jr Summer Camp ran from July 28-August 1 at The Music Hall. The camp, directed by Sydney Teladoni and Broadway’s Lauryn Ciardullo, culminated in a show on Friday, August 1 on The Music Hall stage. Photo: Rohanna Mertens

Broadway Experience: Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen

What a wonderful experience! Broadway Performer and Music Hall Academy Instructor Lauryn Ciardullo took Academy students to see Hell’s Kitchen, Alicia Keys’ hit Broadway musical starring Kecia Lewis and Christopher Jackson on July 26, 2025 at The Schubert Theatre in Manhattan. And after the show, they had a talk back with the Cast! Thank you, Lauryn, Brodie, Kecia Lewis, Christopher Jackson and the Hell’s Kitchen Cast for a very special day!

Music Hall Academy Wall Mural

The nonprofit Music Hall Academy just got a lot more colorful this week, thanks to production manager Sylviane Sherwin and Music Hall co-workers!

Together, they created a wall mural behind the theater, highlighting the Academy’s offerings of Music, Theater, Dance, Circus Arts, Visual Arts and Yoga, and embodying the Academy’s fun and inspirational atmosphere.

The project ended on a high note when Renee had the idea to paint the initials “HMR” on the piano image, paying homage to Helen Marie Ringeisen, a piano teacher who was instrumental in rescuing the Music Hall from demolition in 1980 and who opened the first dance and music school in Tarrytown in 1976. Helen continues to teach piano at the Mozartina Conservatory and oversee the Music Department of the Music Hall Academy.

Huge thank yous to Brodie, Courtney, Emma, Kat, Madeleine, Renee, Sal and Sylviane! We are so grateful for our amazingly talented staff and crew!

Summer Camp 2025: Matilda Jr

The sold-out Matilda Jr Summer Camp ran from July 7-18 at The Music Hall. The camp was directed by Broadway’s Lauryn Ciardullo and culminated in a show for friends and family on Friday, July 18. Photo: Susan Nagib

Masterclass 2025: Broadway’s Lissa deGuzman of Wicked

On June 23, 2025 Lissa deGuzman, the Elphaba standby in Wicked on Broadway, gave a sold out, insprirational Masterclass to Academy students.

Junior Youth Theater Production 2025: The Wizard of Oz Jr

On June 18 and 22, 2025, 3rd-8th graders performed The Wizard of Oz Jr with live musicians in the pit. Photo: Rohanna Mertens

Student Showcases 2025

Angela Attia‘s aerial silks students performed a Showcase on June 19 on the Music Hall stage. Additional performances showcasing theater, dance and aerial silks students were held throughout June 2025.

Spanish Production 2025: Aladdin Jr in Spanish

On June 12 and 14, The Music Hall Academy presented the US premiere of Aladdin Jr in Spanish – the first time in the United States that Aladdin Jr was completely sung and acted in Spanish. The production, featuring 4th-10th graders from all over the tri-state area, was directed by Broadway professionals Evy Ortiz and Lauryn Ciardullo.

Rent’s Adam Pascal & Anthony Rapp Meet & Greet

On June 13, Broadway performers Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, who are best known for their roles in Rent on Broadway, performed at The Tarrytown Music Hall and were so gracious to take a photo with with Academy Administrator Courtney McPhillips and college students Jackie and Reese after the show.

Year-End Recitals 2025: Music

On June 1, Mozartina Conservatory and Academy music students performed on the Music Hall stage.

Metro Award Nominees Concert 2025

On May 31, New York State high school students, who were nominated for a 2025 Metro Award, performed on the Music Hall stage.

Year-End Recitals 2025: Voice

On May 31, Music Hall Academy voice students of Lauryn Ciardullo performed on the Music Hall stage.

The Paper Bag Players 2025

On May 19, The Paper Bag Players gave yet another wonderful show for hundreds of schoolchildren, making them smile, think and laugh. Cast members and Music Hall staff came together for a photo as school busses left the theater.

David Foster, Katharine McPhee & Daniel Emmett Meet & Greet

What an absolute honor to have David Foster, Katharine McPhee and Daniel Emmett in concert on May 16, 2025 at the Music Hall. L to r: Broadway performer & Music Hall Academy Educator Lauryn Ciardullo, Academy students, Academy Director Kevin J Kearins, and Legend David Foster.

Bela Fleck Meet & Greet

Eighteen-time Grammy-winner Béla Fleck, harpist Edmar Castañeda and four-time Grammy-winner drummer Antonio Sánchez performed on May 11 at the Music Hall. They took the time to meet Music Hall Academy students Nora & Marco (and their extended family) after the wonderful concert.

Spring Break Camp 2025: Cats

The Academy’s Spring Break Camp of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats was directed by Broadway performer and educator Lauryn Ciardullo and Nicholas Tinger, and featured 1st-8th graders. In addition to singing and dancing, the students participated in cat-related STEAM activities, played theater games and met Nick Bruel, the award-winning author and illustrator of the Bad Kitty series.

The Academy held a Cat Supply Drive for the SPCA Westchester. And Cats were spotted, prowling the neighborhood with Academy Director Kevin J Kearins after rehearsals. They visited Village Hall, the Post Office, Allan Block Agency, Bark & Meow, Coffee Labs, DeCicco & Sons, Donovan Glass, Eclipse Salon, Flying Fingers, Hudson Eye Care, The Purple Ostrich, and RiverMarket.

The cast performed on April 18 at the Music Hall and made a special appearance at DeCicco & Sons in Sleepy Hollow.

Teen Production 2025: Seussical Jr

Middle and high school students performed in Seussical, Jr at The Music Hall Academy on April 9 and 11. The show featured middle and high school students from all over Westchester, including Theo, who portrayed Michael in the Broadway National Tour of Elf. The April 9 performance was open to the public and on April 11, the cast performed for Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow schoolchildren.

Nine of the cast members were high school seniors and have been involved with the Music Hall Academy for some time. They were presented with roses on April 9 and Jordan, the director, quoted Dr Suess by saying, “Don’t cry because it’s over, but smile because it happened”. Bon voyage! Photo: Margaret Fox

Play 2025: No Substitutes

On April 3 & 6, area middle school students performed in No Substitutes, a play written by Don Zolidis and directed by Sleepy Hollow Middle School English & Drama teacher Peter Kennedy.

Auditions for Aladdin Jr in Spanish

On April 3, we held auditions for Aladdin Jr in Spanish. It is the US Premiere – the first time that Aladdin Jr will be performed in Spanish in the US. The show, directed by an all-Broadway Creative Team, will feature students in grades 4-12 and open in June 2025.

Masterclass 2025: Broadway’s Lauren Boyd of Hamilton

Lauren Boyd of Broadway’s Hamilton gave a Masterclass on March 31, 2025 and shared stories and wisdom with students.

Junior Theater Production 2025: Moana Jr

Students made memories in the production of Moana Jr, directed by Broadway performer Lauryn Ciardullo and musically directed by Nick Tinger.

Masterclass 2025: Broadway’s Tommy Bracco of Newsies

What a fun night! Tommy Bracco, known for his appearances on CBS’ Big Brother and his portrayal of Spot Conlon in the original production of Newsies on Broadway, gave a Masterclass to Academy students on February 24 on the Music Hall stage.

Winter Camp 2025: Storybook Theater

During Winter Break, children in grades Kindergarten through 3rd grade brought books to life through play, theater and imagination with Broadway’s Jill Geddes.

Date Night With Broadway’s Lauryn Ciardullo

On February 7, while parents got a head start on Valentine’s Day, students at The Music Hall Academy learned songs and dances with Broadway performer Lauryn Ciardullo and enjoyed a pizza dinner.

Broadway Legend Patti LuPone Meet & Greet 2025

Broadway Legend Patti LuPone gave an AMAZING performance to a sold out theater on January 31. She also very graciously took time to meet and share some wisdom with our Academy students after the show. Photo: Margaret Fox

Beauty & The Beast Bash 2025

We had a great time celebrating the Beauty & The Beast Jr Casts on January 26, 2025. The 60 kids viewed photos from the shows, sang and danced and inhaled pizza and cake! The Music Hall Academy presented the free school theater residency for the students of Washington Irving and Sleepy Hollow Middle Schools in November 2024.

Winter Break Camp 2024

Students participated in a four-day theater camp under the direction of Broadway performer and educator Lauryn Ciardullo between December 27 and 30, 2024. Happy New Year! Photo: Rohanna Mertens

Lessons & Classes 2024-2025

The Academy offers ongoing lessons and classes in Music, Theater, Voice, Dance, Aerial Silks and Visual Arts.

The Rock Band Class, taught by Manhattan School of Music’s Hunter Somogie (left), is a hit.
Private lessons are given in Voice, Cello, Double Bass, Drums, Guitar, Harp, Mandolin, Piano, Violin, Ukulele and more by top professionals.

Classes include Theater Classes For The Little Ones, Improv Classes and Voiceover Classes; Ballet, Hip Hop, Broadway Song & Dance Classes; Aerial Silks Classes; Visual Art Classes; Master Classes with Broadway performers; Winter, Spring & Summer Camps and more.

Visit our website for current information.

improv Classes 2024-2025

The sky is the limit in this fun, imaginative class with Broadway performer and educator Lauryn Ciardullo.

Voiceover Classes 2024-2025

How thrilling to see young people explore theater and hone their craft in this exciting class with Broadway performer and educator Lauryn Ciardullo. Lauryn’s students may be seen on Broadway and heard in all sorts of commercials and films.

Ballet Classes 2024-2025

We are so honored to have Lisa Lockwood of American Ballet Theatre and Broadway’s Phantom of the Opera on our faculty. It has been so wonderful to see children receiving quality instruction and progressing under her skilled tutelage.

The Drew Barrymore Show with Wicked Star CYNTHIA ERIVO

The Music Hall Academy was so honored to be invited – Academy students had the special opportunity to dress in green and attend The Drew Barrymore Show with Wicked Star Cynthia Erivo. The episode aired on Tuesday, December 10 on CBS.

Winter Events 2024: The Tarrytown Tree Lighting Ceremony & Winter Stroll 2024

Lauryn Ciardullo and Academy students brought holiday cheer to The Tarrytown Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 7 and Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown’s Winter Stroll on December 14.

The National Tour Of Elf 2024

Academy student Theo joined other Academy students in Broadway National Tours when he landed the role of Michael Hobbs in Elf this past fall. We went to see him perform in December and he was fantastic!

Free School Theater Residencies 2024: Beauty & The Beast Jr

Congratulations to the 100 3rd-7th graders of Washington Irving School and Sleepy Hollow Middle School who performed Beauty & The Beast Jr at the Music Hall on November 21 and 22 as part of the school residency the Music Hall provides free of charge for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns. Photo: Susan Nagib

Masterclass 2024: Broadway’s Celia Mei Rubin of Matilda

Academy students took a Song and Dance Master Class with Broadway’s Celia Mei Rubin on Saturday, November 16.

A Broadway Experience: Elf

What a day! After performing at Green Room 42, students of Academy Instructor and Broadway performer Lauryn Ciardullo attended opening night of Elf on Broadway on November 9.

Afterwards, the students met the cast, including Broadway stars Ashley Brown, who portrays Emily Hobbs in Elf and teaches voice at the Academy, and Jennifer Sanchez, who plays Deb.

Times Square Performance 2024: Cabaret at Green Room 42

On November 9, students of Academy Instructor and Broadway performer Lauryn Ciardullo (including 12 year-old Broadway performer Jillian Paige Platero-Nala of Lion King), gave a Cabaret performance at Green Room 42 in Times Square!

Teen Theater Production 2024: The Westchester Premiere of Beetlejuice Jr

On October 27, teens in grades 7-12 performed the Westchester Premiere of Beetlejuice Jr. The Academy production was directed by Lee N Price, who played the title role in the National Tour of Beetlejuice, and Jordan Singer, and was choreographed by Sean McManus of the Broadway’ production.’s Beetlejuice.

Junior Theater Production 2024: Descendants Jr

Two casts of Descendants, directed by Broadway performer and educator Lauryn Ciardullo, performed on October 9 and 15 respectively.. Photo: Ellen Crane

The Tarrytown Halloween Parade 2024

On October 26, The Music Hall hosted Spooky (But Not Too Scary Stories) with Master Storyteller Jonathan Kruk, an Open House with face painting and arts and crafts and a Pre-Parade Performance with Academy singers and dancers. Then, over 100 Academy students dressed up, participated in the annual Tarrytown Halloween Parade and won Best Float! A huge thank you to all of the teachers, directors, parents, crew, students and alumni who participated in the day’s festivities!

Guest Artist 2024: Broadway’s Elizabeth Teeter of Beetlejuice

On October 17, Broadway star Elizabeth Teeter (center), who played the role of Lydia in Beetlejuice on Broadway, came to town to coach the teenage cast of Beetlejuice Jr. The Music Hall Academy presented the Westchester Premiere of Beetlejuice Jr on October 27.

Masterclass 2024: Broadway’s Thayne Jasperson of Hamilton

On September 30, 2024, Thayne Jasperson, the longest-running performer in Broadway’s Hamilton, gave a Song & Dance Master Class to Academy students. Photo: Margaret Fox

Summer Camps 2024: Circus Arts Camp Weeks 1, 2 & 3

Academy students in grades 1-8 received instruction from teachers of Westchester Circus Arts in aerial silks, juggling, acrobatics, plate spinning, tight wire, hula hoopng, and more during these three, one-week camps. Showcases for parents and friends were held on August 16, 23 and 30.

Summer Camp 2024: Broadway Bootcamp

Lauryn Ciardullo, who played Jasmine in the original production of Aladdin on Broadway, challenged students in grades 6-12 with songs, dances and scene work during this intensive one-week Broadway Bootcamp. A showcase for parents and friends was held on August 23.

Summer Camp 2024: Storybook Theater Camp

Students in Kindergarten through 3rd grade participated in this creative one-week camp with Jill Geddes which culminated in a showcase for parents and friends on August 16.

Summer Camp 2024: The Little Mermaid Jr

Students in grades 1-12 participated in a two-week theater camp of The Little Mermaid Jr under the direction of Mackenzie Wolcott, Lauryn Ciardullo and Nicholas Tinger, and performed for parents and friends on August 9. Photo: Ellen Crane

Summer Camp 2024: A Wind In The Door

Students in grades 5-12 brought the play, A Wind In The Door, to life during this one-week theater camp with director Peter Royston. The performance took place on August 9. Photo: Ellen Crane

Teen Theater Production 2024: Mean Girls

High school and college students and a 10-piece professional band performed Mean Girls under the direction of Jordan Singer, Deborah Toteda and Stephen Ferri on August 2 & 3, 2024! Photo: Ellen Crane

Summer Camp 2024: Frozen Jr

Students in grades 1-8 “Let It Go” in this one-week Frozen Jr theater camp and performed for parents and friends on July 19.

A Broadway Experience 2024: The Wiz

On July 17, 2024, Academy Director Kevin J Kearins took Academy & KJK Productions students to see The Wiz on Broadway! The trip included a limo bus ride from Yorktown and Tarrytown to NYC & back, lunch in the theater district and orchestra show tickets.

Masterclass 2024: Broadway’s Gina Duci

Gina Duci, who portrayed Diana Morales in the Broadway National Tour of A Chorus Line directed by Baayork Lee, held a Hip Hop Master Class for Academy students on June 24, 2024. Gina teaches Hip Hop, jazz and Tap at the Academy.

Voice Lessons 2023-2024

n 2023 – 2024, students received voice instruction from Ashley Brown (Mary in Mary Poppins and Belle in Beauty & The Beast on Broadway) and Lauryn Ciardullo (Jasmine in Aladdin on Broadway).

Aerial Silks Classes 2023-2024

In 2023-2024, students in grades 1-12 participated in aerial silks classes, improving their skills in concentration, strength, problem solving and artistry.

Junior Theater Production 2024: Annie Jr

Students in grades 3-8 performed in Annie Jr on June 13 and 15! Photo: Ellen Crane

VIP Magic Class 2024 with Evan Paquette

Students in grades 2-5 were introduced to magic by professional magician and educator Evan Paquette on June 11, 2024. If you look closely, you’ll see that sticks really can float!

Farmer’s Market Concert 2024

About 100 students – Music Hall Academy and Metro Award Nominees – performed at the Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow Farmers Market concert on Saturday, June 8! Photo: Ellen Crane

Teen Theater Production 2024: Camp Rock

Camp Rock on June 5, 2024 featured student performers in grades 7-12.

Year-End Recitals 2024: Music & Voice

Vocal and music students of the Mozartina Conservatory & Academy performed on the Music Hall stage on June 2, 2024. Broadway Song & Dance Class students also performed.

Teen Theater Production 2024: Sister Act

Sister Act, featuring students in grades 7-12, opened on April 16, 2024.

Historical Fiction Theater Classes 2024

In the Spring of 2024, educator Peter Royston taught weekly Historical Fiction class for students in grades 4-8.

Spring Break Camp 2024

In March, 2024, students in grades 1-8 participated in a week-long camp that taught songs, dances and scene work and culminated in a showcase.

Winter Break Camp 2024: Finding Nemo Jr

In February 2024, students in grades 1-8 staged Finding Nemo Jr.

Academy Benefit 2024: These Are Some Of My Favorite Things

On January 28, 2024, Broadway performers Lauryn Ciardullo (Aladdin) & Analise Scarpati (Mrs Doubtfire) performed alongside eighty Academy students in grades 2-12 to benefit the Academy’s free residency, Pay-What-You-Can and scholarship programs. Photo; Margaret Fox

Music Lessons & Classes 2023-2024

Students received instruction in Cello, Drums, Guitar, Harp, Mandolin, Piano, Trumpet, Ukulele & Violin, and participated in such classes as Family Ukulele and Music For The Little Ones (based on the teachings of Dalcroze, Kodaly and Orff) and Family Ukulele Classes. Our Faculty has degrees from such reputable schools as The Juilliard School, The Manhattan School of Music and Eastman School of Music and/or has Broadway credits. Photo: Tim Grajek

Broadway Song & Dance Classes 2023-2024

In 2023-2024, Broadway performer and educator Lauryn Ciardullo taught weekly Broadway Song & Dance Classes. The class will resume in the fall of 2025 along with ballet, tap, jazz and hip hop.

The Tarrytown Tree Lighting Ceremony 2023

On December 2, 2023, fifty Academy students in grades 2-12 performed for hundreds of people at The Tarrytown Tree Lighting Ceremony in Patriots Park.

Free School Residencies 2023: Peter Pan Jr

In November 2023, The Music Hall Academy presented a free school theater residency involving close to 100 Washington Irving School and Sleepy Hollow Middle School students (grades 3-8). Photo: Ellen Crane

The Tarrytown Halloween Parade 2023

Academy students, portraying haunted children, marched in the Tarrytown Halloween Parade on October 28, 2023 and won Best In Show! Photo: Margaret Fox

The Pre-Halloween Parade Performance 2023

Academy music, theater and aerial silk students performed in front of the Music Hall prior to the Halloween Parade.

Music:
Nicolas, 1st place winner at The Carnegie Hall Music Competition last spring and student of late Academy guitar teacher Sean Satin, performed.
Bobby, Celeste, Dylan, Parth and Rachel, under the direction of Joyce Balint, played solos and duets.

Theater:
Theater students in grades 2-12, led by Kevin Kearins and Jordan Singer, sang and danced musical theater numbers.

Circus Arts:
Aerial silks students Audrey, Ella, Gianna and Maggie defied gravity with skilled performances. A shout out to Hilary Sweeney of Westchester Circus Arts, Jesse R, crew, and The Tarrytown Police Department, and a huuuuge thank you to Stiloski’s Towing for providing a tow truck from which the students could hang!!!

Teen Theater Production 2023: Heathers, The Musical

Two casts of 9th-12th graders performed Heathers, The Musical on October 19 and 26, 2023. Photo: Ellen Crane

Junior Theater Production 2023: Matilda, The Musical

Two casts of 3rd-8th graders performed Matilda, the Musical on October 11 and 12, 2023. Photo: Doug DeMarco

Masterclass 2023: Broadway’s Ashley Brown of Mary Poppins

Ashley Brown, who originated the role of Mary Poppins on Broadway, popped in at The Music Hall Academy’s Mary Poppins Theatre Camp on Tuesday, August 1, 2023! She coached singers including 10th grader Kerry Hunter who played Mary (left), critiqued dance numbers, held a Q&A and graciously signed autographs. Thank you for a wonderful and inspiring day, Ashley!

Summer Camp 2023: Circus Arts Camp Week 2

Academy students in grades 1-8 participated in a week-long Circus Arts Camp in collaboration with Westchester Circus Arts in August, exploring aerial arts, juggling, acrobatics, prop manipulation, tightwire, rola bola, hula hoop and more. A demonstration for parents and friends was held on on August 25, 2023.

Summer Camp 2023: Circus Arts Camp Week 1

Academy students in grades 1-8 participated in a week-long Circus Arts Camp in collaboration with Westchester Circus Arts in August, exploring aerial arts, juggling, acrobatics, prop manipulation, tightwire, rola bola, hula hoop and more. A demonstration for parents and friends was held on on August 18, 2023.

Summer Camp 2023: Literary Arts Camp

Students in Kindergarten-2nd grade brought books and stories to life through music, theater, movement and art in August 2023.

Summer Camp 2023: Myth Detectives Camp

Myth Detectives Camp involved Academy students in grades 4-8 and the performance was held on August 11. Photo: Mark Lifflander

Summer Camp 2023: Mary Poppins Jr

Academy students in grades 2-12 participated in a two-week theater camp which culminated in a performance on August 4. Photo: Doug DeMarco

Teen Theater Production 2023: Bring It On

In July, 2023, Academy students in grades 9 through college from all over Westchester performed in Bring It On with a live professional band. Photo: Ellen Crane

A Broadway Experience 2023: & Juliet

Broadway Trip #2: Kevin Kearins, the Academy Director, took Academy & KJK Productions students to see & Juliet on Broadway on July 18, 2023!

Masterclass 2023: Broadway’s Michelle Aravena & Chris Rice-Thomson

In June 2023 and in collaboration with The Helen Hayes Youth Theatre and Two Worlds Entertainment, students were treated to a triple threat audition experience with Broadway performers Michelle Aravena (Beetlejuice, Jersey Boys, Rocky, A Bronx Tale, A Chorus Line) & Chris Rice-Thomson (The Book of Mormon, Pretty Woman, Hamilton US Tour). 

The Metro Awards 2023

The 2023 Metropolitan High School Theatre Awards (The Metros), founded in 1999 by Danielle Ruddess and hosted by Broadway performers Kerry Butler and David Josefsberg, took place on Monday, June 12 to a packed Music Hall. The event involved 56 participating high schools and 223 nominations! 6/12/23 LOHUD article by Peter Kramer.

The Farmer’s Market Performance 2023

On June 10, 2023, Academy students and Metro Award nominees performed at the Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow Farmers Market. Photo: Margaret Fox

Teen Theater Production 2023: High School Musical 2

On June 9 and 15, 2023, 3rd – 12th graders performed in productions of High School Musical 2.

Year-End Recitals 2023: Music

On June 3 and 4, 2023, Academy and Mozartina music students performed at the Music Hall (cello, guitar, mandolin, piano, violin, etc)

A Broadway Experience 2023: Wicked

Kevin J Kearins (Music Hall Academy Director) and Jordan Singer (Director) took Academy students to see Wicked in NYC on May 7, 2023! For some, it was their first Broadway experience. We look forward to the next Broadway outing!

Teen Theater Production 2023: 13, The Musical

In April 2023, three casts of teenagers performed 13, The Musical. Photo: Ellen Crane

Spring Break Camp 2023

In April 2023, Academy students had the opportunity to workshop and perform in a week-long vacation camp.

Free School Theater Residency 2023: Annie Jr

In March 2023, The Academy held a free school residency for Washington Irving and Sleepy Hollow Middle schools. Photo: Ellen Crane

Theater Classes 2023: Shakespeare

In March/April 2023, Academy students were offered Shakespeare Playwriting classes.

Winter Break Camp 2023

In February 2023, Academy students had the opportunity to workshop and perform in a week-long vacation camp.

Academy Benefit 2023: There’s No Business Like Show Business

On January 28, 2023, over 80 Academy students had the amazing opportunity to perform alongside Kennedy Caughell (Carole King in Beautiful: The Carole King Show, Paradise Square), Michele McConnell (the longest running Carlotta in the history of Broadway’s Phantom of the Opera), & Duane McDevitt (Perfect Crime)! The performers also held a Q&A for students before the performance. Photo: Margaret Fox

Masterclass 2023: Broadway’s Jane Bruce of Jagged Little Pill

In January 2023 and in collaboration with Helen Hayes Youth Theatre and Two World Entertainment, students were treated to a masterclass with Broadway performer Jane Bruce (Jagged Little Pill).

The Tarrytown Tree Lighting Ceremony 2022

In December 2022, The Academy performed at the Tarrytown Tree Lighting Ceremony.

The Tarrytown Halloween Parade 2022

In October 2022, the Academy won “Best In Show” at The Tarrytown Halloween Parade. Photo: Margret Fox

Masterclass 2022: Aerial Silks

In October 2022 and in collaboration with Westchester Circus Arts, Academy aerial silks students had the special opportunity to learn from professional circus performers in the Legends circus tent!

Free School Theater Residency 2022: The Wizard of Oz Jr

In November 2022, The Academy offered a free school theater residency to Washington Irving School students.

Teen & Junior Theater Productions 2022: The Addams Family

In October 2022, Junior and Teen casts performed The Addams Family. Photo: Ellen Crane

Theater Classes 2022: Mythology Playwriting

In October/November 2022, Academy students participated in Mythology Playwriting classes.

Masterclass 2022: Broadway’s Kennedy Caughell & Clay Rice-Thomson

In September 2022 and in collaboration with The Helen Hayes Youth Theatre and Two Worlds Entertainment, students were treated to a masterclass with Broadway performers Kennedy Caughell (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Paradise Square) & Clay Rice-Thomson (Moulin Rouge, Newsies).

Summer Camp 2022: Circus Arts Camp

In August 2022 and in collaboration with Westchester Circus Arts, students took part in a week-long circus arts camp.

Summer Camp 2022: The Sound of Music

In August 2022, Academy students participated in a two-week camp of The Sound of Music.