Dr. Contessa S. Bryant – High School Principal; Dr. Jeffrey Hodgson – Provost & CEO
PROVOST AND PRINCIPAL CAPTURE THE MOMENT
“Looking back on last year’s academic and artistic accomplishments is like the opportunity to look through a diary or a scrapbook. It’s familiar, but it feels new and exciting as you go back and remember and recapture the moments that were so special in the lives of students and faculty at New World School of the Arts. Join us in reliving these great memories, especially now as we prepare the school for the next group of students to come to NWSA full of new hopes and dreams for their artistic futures. It is in this process of reflection we get the full picture of the outstanding excellence and creativity that permeates each and every corner of our school. Congratulations to everyone at New World School of the Arts who had a part in making 2024-2025 so special. I share an invitation to you to join us in the great adventure that awaits in the coming new school year.”
“What an extraordinary 2024-2025 arts season it has been! To our incredible student artists, dedicated faculty, and visionary deans—bravo on a truly fabulous year! We looked on in awe as our performances transported us to new realms leaving us truly truly inspired. In our galleries, diverse art exhibitions challenged perceptions and celebrated boundless creativity. Each presentation was a testament to a remarkable artistic journey, where our students, guided by passionate faculty, pushed boundaries and discovered new horizons within their craft. Your unwavering commitment to artistic excellence has made this season unforgettable.”
RISING STARS 2025 RETURNS TO THE ARSHT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
The Rising Stars showcase, reminiscent of a Broadway production, took place at the Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, drawing nearly a thousand attendees, including arts enthusiasts, supporters, students, parents, and alumni. Directed by Alan Patrick Kenny, Dean of Theatre, the program showcased a carefully curated selection of dance, music, theatre, and visual arts excerpts, offering a glimpse into the exceptional training provided by the New World School of the Arts across its arts divisions. Highlights included scenes from theatre productions including Molière’s comedic classic Tartuffe, complemented by striking backdrops and minimalist staging. The audience was also treated to excerpts from Johann Strauss II’s “Die Fledermaus,” performed by the Symphony Orchestra and the Opera Theatre Ensemble, while the NWSA High School Jazz Ensemble delivered a captivating rendition of Duke Ellington’s “Diminuendo and Crescendo in Blue.” The evening further featured the vibrant premiere of “Coming Home” by Robert Battle and excerpts from Paul Taylor’s exuberant “Esplanade.” A significant moment of the night was the presentation of the Rising Stars Alumni Award, which honored Mariya (Masha) Dashkina Maddux, a distinguished alumna who has made notable contributions as a professional concert dancer and educator. This year’s performance and VIP reception were dedicated to the late Richard Klein, the founding Provost of NWSA, whose exceptional leadership greatly influenced the school’s national prominence and the artistic success of its alumni. Prior to the performance, attendees had the chance to explore the Rising Stars Exhibition, which featured the creations of fifteen student artists mentored by Maria Martinez-Cañas, an artist and recently retired faculty member in visual arts (photography) at NWSA, alongside Miami gallerist Fredric Snitzer. The exhibition attracted over 200 guests who were eager to interact with the young artists present, who passionately showcased their work and engaged in discussions about their artistic processes.
O. Gustavo Plascencia, Dean-Visual Arts; Mary Lisa Burns, Dean-Dance; Alan Patrick Kenny, Dean-Theatre; Dr. Daniel Andai, Dean-Music
“The 2024-2025 season of Dance Division performances and showings brought new works by guest artists, faculty, and students to the stage, as well as presenting outstanding signature works by distinguished choreographers of our time. Combining the vibrancy of new creations in a variety of styles and techniques with renowned classics such as Martha Graham’s “Prelude to Action” and Paul Taylor’s “Esplanade” provides an exciting array of offerings for our audiences and helps to build versatility and skill for the dancers in the process of training. It is a testament to the success of the program that many NWSA alumni are involved in these performances, from Robert Battle, former Artistic Director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater company, who returned to Miami to create a moving new work, “Coming Home,” on our students, to Jamar Roberts’ outstanding creation, “Circle Marries the Line,” our students and audiences have the opportunity to see the work of these remarkable artists unfold. Lloyd Knight, soloist with the Martha Graham Company returned to perform and teach, and Maleek Washington set his work, “Blink,” on our students. From the College Senior BFA presentation to the High School Student Choreography performance and Senior Showcase, new student works are being mentored by faculty and presented onstage, representing the next generation of Miami’s artistic community. It was an exciting year of creativity and excellence in dance.”
“In terms of training, dancers have to be trained in all ways. It’s no longer the kind of career where you can just specialize in one form of dance. They really have to know a little bit of everything in order to make it in this career.”
Robert Battle, guest choreographer
INTERSECTION OF MOVEMENT AND COLOR
The exhibition “Between Worlds: Figures in Dance and Canvas” showcased an innovative collaboration between the dance and visual arts divisions at New World School of the Arts. This distinctive event featured a carefully curated display of styled costumes from various past dance performances, artfully paired with paintings and drawings. Together, these elements illuminated themes of character, movement, the human form, situational context, and cultural narratives. In addition to the visual presentations, the exhibition featured a captivating performance by select college dance students, alongside a professionally curated selection of artworks from the New World Collection, which comprises a growing array of donated pieces by esteemed Latin American artists.
“Studying at New World School of the Arts has opened doors for me in ways that wouldn’t have been possible in my home country. In just two years, I’ve experienced more growth as a dancer than throughout my entire dance career, thanks to the exceptional instructors and the supportive community of my fellow classmates. NWSA has helped me thrive as a dancer and has equipped me with the tools I need to navigate the professional world of the arts with confidence, as I approach graduation.”
Fabiola Castillo, college dance senior
MARTHA GRAHAM’S ARTISTRY
The New World Dance Ensemble presented a diverse and engaging program of contemporary dance, in Aventura and again in Miami at the New World Dance Theater in Miami. The highlight of the performance was a solo by Lloyd Knight (2005), an esteemed alumnus of New World School of the Arts and a professional dance soloist for the past two decades with the prestigious Martha Graham Dance Company in New York City.
Lloyd, who has been recognized by Dance Magazine as one of the “Top 25 to Watch,” captivated the audiences with a powerful performance of Graham’s compelling piece, “Lucifer.” Following his graduation from NWSA, Lloyd joined the Martha Graham Dance Company. The program also featured Graham’s impactful ensemble work, “Prelude to Action,” originally created in 1936 as a “rousing call for unity, action, and belief in our collective ability to strive towards a better future.” The New World Dance Ensemble also presented Amy Hall Garner’s new work, “Influence” performed en pointe, along with NWSA alumna Yusha Sorzano’s dynamic work, “Aesop’s Children,” Michelle Manzanales’ homage to Frida Kahlo “Paloma Querida,” and Jeffrey Lloyd Smith‘s swirling and energetic work, “against the current.”
JAMAR ROBERTS SETS NEW WORK
New World School of the Arts welcomed distinguished dancer and choreographer Jamar Roberts in a collaboration with NWSA college students. The prolific artist developed a new piece, which was viewed first in a free, open studio showing for the public, and introduced to Miami audiences during the 2025 Rising Stars showcase at the Adrienne Arsht Center in March, and which had its official premiere during Spring Dances performances in April, 2025. Entitled “Circle Marries the Line”and set to the stirring music of Phillip Glass, the work was a resounding success.
“There’s something in the piece emphasizing a strong technical place and having to sustain that type of accuracy over a long period of time for the duration of the piece itself. There’s a rigor to the work and a general feeling of things being in a flurry.”
Jamar Roberts, guest choreographer
An esteemed dance alum of NWSA and a Miami native, Roberts is an award-winning artist known for his tenure as a dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, where he served as the first choreographer in residence. His innovative work has garnered attention from leading dance companies and organizations across the nation, including the Miami City Ballet, Martha Graham Dance Company, and Parsons Dance. As Resident Choreographer at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater from 2019 to 2022, he created five critically acclaimed works: “Members Don’t Get Weary” (2016), “Ode” (2019), “A Jam Session for Troubling Times” (2020), “Holding Space” (2021), and “In a Sentimental Mood” (2022). He also choreographed “Gemeos” for Ailey II. He has performed with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Ailey II, and Complexions and has received numerous accolades which include the 2016 Bessie Award for Outstanding Performer.
REFLECTIONS
The NWSA college Senior BFA Dance Concert, entitled “Reflections” by the class of 2025, showcased innovative pieces by choreographers Ryan Charles-Marc, Mariana Cuberos, Genesis Madera, Vanessa Metellus, and Mary Wenzel. The program included Charles-Marc’s compelling work, “Invisible Man,” alongside Wenzel’s dynamic ensemble piece, “Joan,” which drew inspiration from the life of Joan of Arc. The program was completed by Mariana Cuberos’ dynamic work, “Between the Walls;” Vanessa Metellus’ dance “Immerse” exploring the power of presence; and Genesis Madera’s stirring work “Harmonic Tensions” set to the music of Mozart. Performed by the exceptional senior dancers, these works explored the themes of identity and personal experience, highlighting the creative voices of the emerging choreographers while celebrating their vibrant new perspectives in the world of dance.
SPRING DANCES
The dance division of New World School of the Arts showcased Spring Dances, an exhilarating program featuring a diverse array of performances. Presented by the college dance students, the concert highlights included Paul Taylor’s iconic 1975 piece, “Esplanade,” accompanied by the music of J.S. Bach, alongside David Parsons’ clever and thought-provoking work, “The Envelope,” from 1984, which illustrates the role of humor in contemporary dance. The program also featured new creations by faculty members: Francisco Graciano‘s compelling work for fifteen dancers, “One” and Jeffrey Lloyd Smith‘s moving premiere of “Harboring”, as well as a new work by NWSA alumnus and former Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater member, Jamar Roberts. Spanning from classic to contemporary works, with musical selections ranging from Philip Glass to Gioachino Rossini, this event delivered an engaging, witty, and uplifting evening of dance.
“Performing works by renowned choreographers provides NWSA dancers with the invaluable opportunity to inhabit these masterworks, to understand them compositionally, and to meet the demands of skill and artistry that they require while working with the choreographer in the process of creation requires development of skills as collaborators and sharing in the struggle and satisfaction of bringing a new dance to the stage.”
The High School Spring Dance performance showcased a remarkable selection of choreographic works, prominently featuring the premiere of “Coming Home,” a new piece by NWSA alumnus Robert Battle, the former Artistic Director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
“This is the first time I have made an original work for the students but they’ve been doing my work at New World since I was a choreographer after I graduated from Juilliard in New York. It’s almost like the first time every time you step into the studio with a cast of dancers. You’re learning lots of things and you lean on the students to give you the inspiration that you need until you have a dance.”
Robert Battle, guest choreographer
The program also highlighted Robert Garland’s contemporary pointe work, “Joplin Dances,” set to the music of Scott Joplin, alongside Maleek Washington‘s energetic piece, “Blink.” Audiences were treated to the debuts of Gentry Isaiah George’s “The Betty Everett Musical,” Teddy Talbot’s dance “Refraction,” and Janine Micheletti’s vibrant hip hop number, “Where’s the Party At?” The talented dancers from the NWSA high school dance division brought these performances to life, marking the conclusion of the high school dance season at the New World School of the Arts. To close out the dance NWSA dance season, “Tides of Time,” the NWSA High School Senior Dance Showcase, presented a compelling series of student choreography, with each movement telling a story reflective of the graduating students’ four transformative years. Under the guidance of faculty member Teddy Talbot, this student-choreographed event encapsulated the seniors’ journeys of growth, challenges, and accomplishments, showcasing a diverse array of styles and perspectives that highlighted the significant impact they have made.
DANCE TRAINING WITH FRANCISCO GRACIANO
Francisco Graciano, a native of south Texas has joined the New World School of the Arts dance roster teaching modern dance, composition, and repertory. As a professional dancer in New York City, Francisco was a member of several esteemed companies and is a founding member of TAKE Dance Company and Dusan Tynek Dance Theater. Mr. Graciano was recognized by The New York Times as a “virtuoso star” during his time with the Paul Taylor Dance Company from 2004 to 2017. Dance Magazine also named him one of their “25 to Watch,” praising him as a dancer with “a freshness that’s all his own.” His choreography has been presented in the U.S. and internationally by various prestigious organizations, including Theater in Quarantine, Dance Lab New York, Battery Dance Festival, Austin Dance Festival, Provincetown Dance Festival, Nantucket Dance Festival, WestFest Dance Festival, and the 50th Annual Cervantino Festival. Notable collaborations include artists Jacob Jonas, Jordan Matter, Jen Mabus, and Robert Wilson. He has created solo works for principal dancers of the Martha Graham Dance Company and Paul Taylor Dance Company. As a teaching artist, he has been on faculty at Sam Houston State University, The Ballet Alliance, and the Taylor School. Additionally, Francisco serves as Program Coordinator and Social Media Manager for Dance on Camera Festival in New York. He is an Assistant Professor of Dance at New World School of the Arts and a licensed GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® trainer. Francisco holds an MFA from Florida State University.
MUSIC DIVISION
POP MUSIC CONCERT
The New World School of the Arts High School Wind Ensemble opened the music season with a vibrant POPS Concert celebrating the beloved themes of Heroes, Princesses, and Villains from Disney. The repertoire included a variety of enchanting selections, such as “Touch the Sky” from Brave, “How Far I’ll Go” from Moana, “Friend Like Me” from Aladdin, and “Love is an Open Door” from Frozen. Additionally, the performance featured “You’ll Be In My Heart” from Tarzan, “I See the Light” from Tangled, “Go the Distance” from Hercules, along with memorable pieces from Mulan, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lion King, and The Princess and the Frog.
“As the first music performance of the year, emphasis on time management and accountability for the music and the ensemble is exposed from the onset of the school year.”
“The repertoire, concurrently rehearsed individually and as an ensemble, is accessible and serves as a tool to stabilize ensemble expectations throughout the year. While many of the melodies may be recognizable, a lot of the magic comes from the inner parts that support and bring out the character of the rest of the score,” noted Mounger.
MUSIC REELED IN THE SEASON
The NWSA music division enthusiastically welcomed the holiday season with a vibrant series of performances, featuring a diverse repertoire comprised of holiday classics, beloved classical pieces, and world premieres by composition students. The festivities began with the College Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of new faculty member Dr. Grant Gilman, presenting a program of captivating works such as “Los Tres Golpes” by Ignacio Cervantes, “Fuga con Pajarillo” by Aldemaro Romero, and “Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5” by Heitor Villa-Lobos, among others. Additionally, the College Piano, Chamber, and Composition Recital highlighted collaborative performances by students and faculty, featuring chamber works from classical composers like Dvorak, Mozart, and Faure. The New World School of the Arts Symphony Orchestra hailed the festive season with the annual Concerto Competition Concert, showcasing the 2024 winners, selected by an external panel of judges. Performances included Haydn’s “Cello Concerto No. 1 in C major” by Silvia Hernandez, Donizetti’s “aria” by Valentina Gomez, and Mozart’s “French Horn Concerto No. 4” by Matthew Rogers, alongside traditional works by Johann Strauss and Mussorgsky, all conducted by Dr. Gilman.
HOLIDAY CHOIR CONCERT
The esteemed NWSA High School Choir, led by Dr. Giselle Rios, recently held its annual concert, featuring a captivating blend of traditional and modern holiday classics, including selections from Handel’s Messiah, which they also performed in collaboration with the South Florida Symphony. This event also highlighted the participation of Highland Oaks Middle School students, who had the opportunity to rehearse alongside the high school choir and benefit from the guidance of these talented young musicians. To wrap up the year at New World School of the Arts, faculty members Dr. Grant Gilman and Brent Mounger came together to present a concert showcasing the NWSA Wind Ensemble and Camerata String Orchestra, performing works by distinguished composers such as Ron Nelson, Frederick Delius, and Percy Grainger.
DIE FLEDERMAUS OPERA AMID THE 1920s
The New World School of the Arts Opera Theatre and Opera Orchestra proudly presented Johann Strauss II’s “Die Fledermaus,” an enchanting operetta brimming with humor, intrigue, and captivating melodies. Directed by NWSA music alumna and former voice/opera faculty member Dr. Megan Barrera, alongside Orchestra Conductor Dr. Grant Gilman, this production transported audiences to the glamorous 1920s.
Featuring stunning vocal performances infused with a stylish Roaring 20s flair, the performance was complemented by opulent costumes and vibrant dance, delighting audiences by the operetta’s comedic escapades and timeless allure. This rendition of “Die Fledermaus” provided college opera students with a comprehensive artistic experience, pushing them to evolve beyond mere singers. “Acting on stage requires more than beautiful singing—it involves reacting authentically, embodying characters fully, and engaging with fellow performers in the moment,” explained Dr. Barrera. “Comedy is a challenging art form, and this production allowed students to explore comedic timing, physicality, and connection with the audience. By working on both the musical and dramatic aspects of the operetta, students gained the tools to become dynamic, well-rounded performers prepared for the demands of a professional stage.”
NWSA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INTERPRETS THE MASTERS
The New World School of the Arts Symphony Orchestra made a triumphant return to the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, under the direction of Dr. Grant Gilman, the newest member of the NWSA music faculty. In his debut at the venue, the orchestra delivered a captivating performance featuring classical masterpieces such as Dvořák’s “Symphony No. 8,” renowned for its lush melodies and lively rhythms, alongside Beethoven’s vigorous “Egmont Overture.” The program also included Barber’s “Adagio for Strings,” a work noted for its profound emotional depth. A highlight of the evening was the performance by acclaimed cellist Andrei Ioniță, winner of the 2015 Tchaikovsky International Competition, who brought to life the intricate and spirited Tchaikovsky’s “Rococo Variations.”
“Dr. Gilman has proven to be an energetic, compassionate, and committed artist and faculty,” said Dr. Daniel Andai, NWSA dean of music. “Our guest artist is a masterful soloist. These are the types of collaborations and musical offerings that make New World School of the Arts unique and special; talented students, a great conductor, a world-class soloist, all happening blocks from the campus in a wonderful hall based in our hometown.”
JAZZ ENSEMBLE COMPETES IN NYC
The New World School of the Arts Jazz Ensemble made its return to New York City to participate in the 30th annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival, hosted by Jazz at Lincoln Center. This year’s milestone event showcased an expanded lineup of 30 bands from across the United States and internationally, including participants from Australia, Japan, and Spain, doubling the usual number of competitors. The NWSA Jazz Ensemble engaged in workshops and performed at the prestigious Metropolitan Opera House within Lincoln Center. Under the guidance of faculty member Jim Gasior, the NWSA Jazz Ensemble advanced to the final round, competing among the top ten bands. The ensemble received notable recognition, earning two of the four awards presented: “Outstanding Rhythm Section” and “Outstanding Trombone Section.” Additionally, three students were honored with “Outstanding Soloist” awards, while another received an “Honorable Mention Soloist” award.
“Preparing for an elite competition, aired worldwide, elevates students’ skills, so again, New World School of the Arts delivers on its promise of excellence in education and performance.”
Dr. Daniel Andai, Dean of Music
UNDER THE BATON OF DR. GRANT GILMAN
An accomplished orchestral conductor, Dr. Grant Gilman, celebrated for his expertise in American orchestral music from the 19th to the 21st centuries, is the New World School of the Arts’ Orchestra Conductor. He currently serves as Music Director of the Alpharetta Symphony Orchestra and East Cobb Chamber Orchestra, and Principal Guest Conductor of the DeKalb Symphony Orchestra. Grant has held notable positions with the Round Rock Symphony, Astoria Symphony, and Virginia Symphony Orchestra, among others. Dedicated to nurturing young talent, he has led orchestral programs at the College of William and Mary, Christopher Newport University, and the University of Cincinnati. Grant is also the creator of the American Muse podcast and blog, exploring American orchestral music, with a forthcoming book on the subject. His conducting engagements have spanned cities including Cincinnati, New York, Baltimore, and San Antonio, with highlights including a Nutcracker performance with the Moscow Ballet at Baltimore’s Lyric Opera House. Grant holds advanced degrees in conducting and violin performance from the Peabody Institute and the University of Cincinnati.
“Dr. Gilman comes to NWSA with extensive conducting experience. His ability to inspire and connect with the students, as a teacher and with his baton, was evident from the moment he stepped onto the podium at NWSA.”
“The 2024-2025 theatre season shined a bright light on the challenges that make us human. From the haunted and haunting small-town denizens of Kodachrome to Orpheus’ losing his love Eurydice to the depths of Hadestown, each piece uniquely highlighted the ways that people process grief and move on from loss. Whether it’s struggling to cover up the loss of a beloved cat in The Lieutenant of Inishmore, capitalizing on the sensationalism of murder and celebrity in Chicago, or the confluence of past and future familial losses with artistic identity in Mariela in the Desert, these stories brought us together to find solace, humor, and community. The power of theatre amplifies the collective experience of all involved, building a bridge from the minds of the creators through the voices of the performers to the hearts and minds of the audience, in a beautiful and ephemeral moment of connection.”
KODACHROME BEYOND THE LENS
New World School of the Arts high school theatre students took to the stage with Adam Szymkowicz’s poignant play, Kodachrome, under the direction of NWSA Dean of Theater, Alan Patrick Kenny. Several of the 15-cast members starring in Kodachrome discussed the director’s perspective and goals for this production: “APK [Alan Patrick Kenny] helps us find the lighter moments of this play, and he’s pushing us to go to these great emotional depths. He really helps us to think of it in our reality – like he helps us to translate it from the play to our lives, so we understand what’s going on,” said Celia Voges, a high school senior in musical theatre.
“Director Kenny wants to create a piece of art that’s relatable and moves the audience; all his direction, notes, and choices stem from that meaning to connect and tell a story that is human and universal. He aims to teach us how to have intrinsic empathy as actors and encourages us to put ourselves in those different circumstances.”
Andre Cardona, high school senior
Miranda Souki, a college senior, noted, “Every day I feel more comfortable in the space and the play. I think he’s been very open and professional with us, which means I feel I have a safe space where I can do things. I think this role and preparation for this role taught me two things: first, it’s never about you; it’s always about the work and about the people you’re on stage with. Second, you must spend so much time by yourself and be by yourself because the artist grows in solitude.”
DRAT! WHERE’S THE CAT?
A cast comprising eight theatre students from the New World School of the Arts college program presented the Tony Award-nominated black comedy, The Lieutenant of Inishmore, authored by the British-Irish playwright and filmmaker, Martin McDonagh. The production was directed by James Samuel Randolph, a member of the NWSA theatre faculty. This acclaimed play is set on the small Irish island of Inishmore during the period known as The Troubles, a conflict between the British government (the Crown) and the Irish Republican Army (IRA). Central to the narrative is Wee Thomas, a cat that is purportedly deceased. The missing feline serves as a metaphor for love and hope, juxtaposed against the backdrop of violence and brutality inherent in the struggle for freedom.
“In this dark comedy, the audience is invited to see the humor in many things, especially death. Humor is not jokes; humor is the component within human existence that allows every one of us to survive every day. The struggle for survival is a big element in this play – all the characters struggle in their own way, including that cat, often leading to a cataclysmic conclusion,” noted Randolph.
“My role as a stage manager has allowed me to work with great directors by seeing how they handle a scene and a show and understanding the different processes. As an actor, I love being a fly on the wall and learning from all these fantastic artists and the leading roles or characters.”
Emily Woodhouse, college sophomore
ONE PERSON SHOWS
New World School of the Arts showcased The One Festival, featuring nearly a dozen monologues in a series of fifteen-minute plays crafted, directed, and performed by the BFA seniors. Over the weekend, two distinct programs highlighted themes that were both relevant and deeply personal, reflecting the thoughts and experiences of these emerging artists. The performances offered a dynamic exploration of the challenges faced in one’s early twenties, addressing issues such as self-discovery, mental health, and grief through a blend of humor and unexpected narratives. The diverse content ranged from a poignant examination of grief through the lens of werewolf transformation to the personification of anxiety, culminating in a whimsical tale of an alien landing in a parking lot, where the audience is invited to consider their role in the unfolding drama.
“These one person shows are the time during study where they get to make all the major decisions. They go from concept to first draft to rehearsal to tech week with the final say on how the show looks, feels, and is. There are solid parameters that they must work within, but this is their time to shine and show the world who they are through their work.”
Under the direction of Matthew Buffalo, a faculty member at the New World School of the Arts, the musical theatre students showcased the acclaimed Tony Award-winning musical satire Chicago, created by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse, with music by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb. Set against the backdrop of the dazzling 1920s, Chicago immersed the audience in a captivating narrative where crime and celebrity intertwine, and moral boundaries shift in the pursuit of ambition. This darkly comedic satire delves into the alluring nature of fame and examines the intricate relationship between society and the media. The 26-member cast of college and high school students, under Buffalo’s skilled direction, infused the performance with a contemporary relevance that resonates with today’s social media landscape.
“In directing this production, my goal has been to honor the original spirit of Chicago while bringing a fresh perspective to its narrative,” said Buffalo. “Our talented cast and crew worked tirelessly to capture the essence of the 1920s jazz age, with its vibrant energy and underlying tension. Chicago is more than just a visual spectacle. It’s a commentary on the timeless human desire for recognition.”
“It’s given me a lot of confidence on stage and off stage, reminding me that it’s okay to have that inner confidence in life and to have my own inner diva at times. I think it’s important to give yourself the credit and Roxie is all about owning who she is. She teaches me to own who I am as well. And I am my own best friend.”
Sundari Davis, college senior as Roxie Hart
EMERGING NEW VOICES
The annual New Playwrights’ Festival, overseen by NWSA theater faculty member Maggie Maxwell, showcased a series of short plays crafted by high school and college students, with direction provided by both faculty and college students. This festival not only imparts knowledge about the creation of new works each year but also encourages participants to develop their skills as versatile storytellers.
The curation process is rigorous and spans several months, commencing at the beginning of the academic year. It involves assembling a play selection committee, meticulously reviewing each submission, casting productions, and forming creative teams, all aimed at nurturing an environment where emerging talents can flourish. Maggie Maxwell emphasized that the festival serves as a vital platform for the innovative storytellers of the future, with each performance reflecting the urgent and impactful narratives that these playwrights wish to convey. This festival is not just a performance; it’s a platform for new artists to make their mark and tell the stories that matter to them.”
MARIELA IN THE DESERT
Directed by Jennifer de Castroverde, theatre faculty member at the New World School of the Arts, the college’s acting program presented the haunting play Mariela in the Desert by Karen Zacarías, featuring a cast of 17 students. Set in the northern Mexican desert during the 1950s, this compelling story unfolds as a mystery that delves into the effects of suppressed creativity on a family. Once prominent figures in the Mexican arts scene, Mariela and José fostered a vibrant family and an artist colony that attracted icons such as Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, and Rufino Tamayo. However, with their daughter’s departure and the estrangement of former friends due to their fame, the couple’s artistic spirit has been stifled by isolation and deceit.
“The play explores how – by finally facing what really happened – each character reaches a moment of release. It’s a story where the weight of shame must be set on fire and from those ashes healing is born.”
Elizabeth Gonzalez, college junior as Mariela
The NWSA production enhanced the audience’s experience with a pre-show experience at the historic Koubek Center mansion, designed to immerse attendees in the play’s atmosphere, as explained by director de Castroverde. “Inspired by the journey Mariela herself makes – from the thriving artistic scene of Mexico City to the desolate desert home, this pre-show element invites the audience into the same spiritual migration. Through sensory details – fragments of sound, image, and environment we evoke the nostalgia and melancholy of the life Mariela and José once dreamed of, contrasting it with the stark, still existence they now inhabit.”
HADESTOWN: TEEN EDITION
Directed by theatre faculty member Silas Hoover, the high school theatre students concluded the NWSA theatre season with Anaïs Mitchell’s Hadestown: Teen Edition. This captivating musical took audiences on a tumultuous journey to the underworld, blending elements of classic American folk music with the rich sounds of vintage New Orleans jazz. The narrative explores the tension between industry and nature, as well as the conflicts of doubt versus faith and fear versus love. Hoover emphasized the thematic depth of the story, questioning why men can continue their lives while women bear the consequences when autonomy is compromised.
“While it may be easy to frame Orpheus as the hero, to me, Eurydice is the one who makes the difficult choice – she chooses Hadestown. She signs the deal. And in the end, she’s the one left behind. That hits hard. The story asks: when the fight for autonomy is lost, why do men get to go on with their lives, while women live with the consequences? That question haunts me through every scene.”
Silas Hoover, theatre faculty
The director chose to set the first act during the Dust Bowl era; a decision rooted in personal significance. Growing up in Kansas, Hoover recalls his grandparents’ vivid accounts of surviving dust storms, which resonate with the themes of hunger and survival present in the musical. This historical context, he noted, is particularly poignant in a narrative that examines labor, survival, and the sacrifices made for safety.
SILVER KNIGHT RECOGNITION FOR DRAMA
Lauren Welmaker, a high school senior in the theatre division at New World School of the Arts, received an Honorable Mention in the Drama category at this year’s Silver Knight Awards, organized by The Miami Herald. With more than ten years of experience in both school and community theater, Lauren advocates for the arts’ ability to transform students by enhancing their confidence, academic performance, and community involvement. “Having my work recognized by the Miami Herald felt like a full circle moment,” explained Lauren. “I was able to turn my passion for the arts into a community project, achieving an Honorable Mention from the same company my grandfather had such an impact on.”
“As a Pulitzer Prize winner and former Miami Herald reporter, he instilled in me the importance of community service and the legacy of the James L. Knight Foundation. This fulfilled me in unimaginable ways and throughout high school, I strove to create change in my community.”
Lauren Welmaker, high school senior
Lauren’s recognition was significantly attributed to her innovative circus performance project, where she skillfully organized and choreographed a show featuring 30 children. Beyond choreography, she was instrumental in structuring the performance, preparing the venue, and mentoring the young participants, which enriched her understanding of the intricacies involved in circus arts and production.
JACOB BROWN SETS THE STAGE
Jacob Brown, a scenic designer hailing from Bakersfield, California, has taken the lead for New World School of the Arts theatre scenography as the division’s scenic designer, technical director, production manager, and stagecraft. Jacob boasts a diverse portfolio across the United States, including notable venues such as off-Broadway’s Theatre Row, Stars Dinner Theatre, Forestburg Playhouse, Cortland Repertory Theatre, Summer Repertory Theatre, and Denizen Theatre. A graduate of Ohio University with a Master of Fine Arts, Jacob’s work has earned him recognition such as a nomination for Best Scenic Design from BroadwayWorld.com and a 2021 Jack and Anita Hess Faculty Seminar Honorarium from the National Holocaust Museum in DC. Most recently, he was the recipient of the 2024 Richard Wagner Scholarship and was invited to attend the festival in Bayreuth, Germany. Driven by a passion to bring theater to diverse communities, Jacob seeks to promote inclusive artistic expression as a means of fostering shared experiences and fostering connections across socioeconomic divides.
“New World School of the Arts continues to enrich student experience through standout programming. In its fourth year, the ARTISTS, SCHOLARS & CURATORS lecture series presented a vast array of topics of importance for the visual arts community. From portfolio preparation to documentary photography & social reportage, to the broader sociopolitical issues in art, the series continued to engage the division’s students and faculty with relevant dialogue and exploration. Among the exhibitions, Between Worlds: Figures in Dance and Canvas offered a vibrant collaboration between Dance and Visual Arts, blending costume, drawing, and painting to reflect on identity and motion. Meanwhile, Designated Assembly Points emphasized the power of collaboration and assemblage, showcasing innovative, cross-media works that connect artists, objects, and communities to inspire social change.”
WORLD WITHOUT END: ARAMIS O’REILLY
Aramis O’Reilly, a member of the visual arts faculty at New World School of the Arts who retired this spring, showcased his final exhibition at the institution during fall of 2024. O’Reilly’s artwork embodies his aspiration to envision a utopian reality. It serves as an expression of life’s exuberance and the intricate interplay among various elements within the world. These interactive forces are infinitely diverse and seemingly boundless. As an immigrant from a young age, O’Reilly has navigated two concurrent worlds: the former, which he left behind and exists vividly in the imagination of his parents, and the latter, a new world that feels somewhat incongruent due to the disparities in language, culture, and appearance. About his work O’Reilley highlighted, “Students may grow by analyzing the work through its technical processes, its conceptual expression, and for its commitment towards a particular pursuit.”
“One of the things that you have to count on as an artist is that you’re going to do what you say you’re going to do for yourself. So to prepare for a show it’s about starting on one day and saying tomorrow I will do the same and the next day I’ll do the same.”
Aramis O’Reilly, visual arts faculty
LESSONS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Visual Arts faculty members Alisa Pitchenik Charles and Antonio Fernandez guided upper division students from the NWSA visual arts college program on an insightful visit to the New York Film Academy (NYFA) in Miami Beach. This excursion offered students an opportunity to delve into NYFA’s graduate programs, highlighting advanced avenues in film education. The tour featured a comprehensive exploration of NYFA’s cutting-edge facilities, enabling students to engage with the resources essential for professional film training. The participating students gained firsthand experience with high-end industry equipment, including cameras, lighting setups, and sound recording devices, which provided them with a crucial understanding of the technical aspects of filmmaking and connected their academic learning with real-world applications. Additionally, some students visited MAD Arts, an immersive art museum located in Dania Beach, which showcases the works of international artists and designers known for their innovative approaches that challenge the intersections of art and technology. The museum emphasizes experimental art forms that utilize light, digital media, and interactive elements, fostering direct engagement between visitors and the artwork. During their visit, students explored the studios and agency at MAD Arts, gaining valuable insights into the creative processes behind the installations, and enjoyed a private tour of the museum, which offered them a unique and in-depth experience of the exhibits.
DESIGNATED ASSEMBLY POINTS
NWSA visual arts students showcased Designated Assembly Points, an exhibition that transcended the physical boundaries of the New World Gallery in downtown Miami. This event, exhibited at the iconic MDC Koubek Memorial Center, emphasized the powerful influence of collective creativity and the significance of collaborative artistic endeavors. Bringing together a diverse range of artists and communities, the show encouraged exploration and innovation through unconventional methods of assemblage, seeking to create meaningful connections among people, objects, and narratives, fostering both social and artistic change. Central to Designated Assembly Points was the investigation of non-traditional art practices and cross-media collaboration, showcasing how the integration of various artistic techniques, materials, and conceptual frameworks can yield dynamic new forms and interpretations. Exhibiting artists engaged with a variety of assemblage expressions, reflecting on personal and political themes through innovative artistic mediums.
VEIL SENIOR SHOWCASE
The culminating representation of the NWSA visual arts 2025 BFA graduating class’s four years of rigorous artistic training, VEIL showcased the works of 25 visual artists. Curated by esteemed faculty members, artist María Martínez-Cañas (retired this spring) and gallerist Fredric Snitzer, this show delved into the themes of perceived and actual boundaries encountered by the student artists, reflecting their years of conceptually driven practice at NWSA. Some pieces engaged viewers with immediate visual dialogues through their choice of materials and imagery, while others intentionally remained ambiguous, encouraging a deeper examination to uncover hidden meanings. As daylight shifted, so too did the audience’s perspective, altering the interpretation of each artwork. Whether intentional or a result of constraints, the concept of VEIL was intricately interwoven throughout the exhibition, serving as a poignant reminder that perception is inherently fluid and constantly evolving.
ICONOGRAPHY DRAPES THE CAPITAL
The Miami-Dade Days Ties and Scarves Competition, a longstanding initiative involving New World School of the Arts college graphic design students for nearly forty years, once again highlighted the essence of Miami-Dade County at the state capital. This year’s winning design, created by visual arts student Brandom Villaneda, showcases iconic landmarks and symbols of Miami-Dade, making the accessories a significant representation of South Florida. During the spring legislative session, where many attendees donned the striking designs, Brandom, accompanied by NWSA Provost Dr. Jeffrey Hodgson, witnessed his vision come to fruition. At 28 years old, Brandom Villaneda, a Mexican graphic designer who has called Miami home for 17 years, began his artistic journey with traditional pencil and paper, where he first learned to shape lines and forms. As his skills evolved, he transitioned to digital tools, allowing him to expand his creative horizons. For Brandom, design transcends mere imagery; it embodies a tangible expression of his artistic journey. Each piece he creates reflects the growth of his craft, connecting his beginnings with his future aspirations.
THE LEGACY OF ROSA AND CARLOS DE LA CRUZ CONTINUES
Continuing a fifteen-year tradition of fostering artistic growth and accessibility for young artists in South Florida, the BFA class of 2025 from the New World School of the Arts’ visual arts division embodies the vision of Rosa and Carlos de la Cruz. The twenty-three graduates, alongside select mentors and professors, engaged in a transformative travel experience in France, where they are visited renowned galleries, museums, and private art collections. This initiative, designed to enhance their artistic understanding and expand their creative horizons, highlights Rosa de la Cruz’s dedication to cultivating a vibrant arts community and ensuring art is accessible to Miami’s youth has been crucial in providing these significant opportunities. Established in 2010 in collaboration with the Knight Foundation, the New World School of the Arts Visual Arts Travel Abroad Program, in partnership with esteemed Miami gallerist Fredric Snitzer and former NWSA Dean of Visual Arts Maggy Cuesta, aims to offer graduating visual arts students artistic experiences that extend beyond national boundaries
