INSPIRATION FROM OUR LEADERSHIP
PROVOST & CEO, DR. JEFFREY HODGSON
“Sometimes when you look in the rear-view mirror, what you see depends on which direction you are going. You might see the sun setting behind you or feel the sun rising at your back. In this year’s edition of the year in review, 2025-2026 at New World School of the Arts shines bright with incredible examples of the artistic thrills we experienced last year. The direction is forward – into the new academic year, but with an appreciation for the signposts, miles traveled and accomplishments along the way. NWSA students, faculty and staff are setting course for another year of artistic exploration; of learning and mastering technique and skill unlocking the ability to express the deepest of emotions and the honest reflective truth that only art can express. Join us on this trip. Take a look back at last year and come along for the ride this coming year.”
HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL, DR. CONTESSA S. BRYANT
“What a spectacular and artistically profound 2025-2026 arts season it has been! Our student artists truly shined on stage, while their breathtaking work in the galleries spoke directly to our souls. It is thrilling to get a front-row seat to where the art world is headed, especially as our students fearlessly push creative boundaries at such a young age. Yet, what made this year truly remarkable was how masterfully they innovated while still honoring the rich history and rigorous conservatory nature of our school. To our extraordinary students, dedicated faculty, and visionary deans—congratulations on a fabulous year of masterfully balancing tradition with the future of the arts!”
CHOREOGRAPHY AND MOVEMENT
DEAN OF DANCE, MARY LISA BURNS
“The New World School of the Arts dance division offers dancers a progressive course of study in dance techniques including ballet, modern, contemporary, and jazz, and with a wide range of experiences working with both faculty and distinguished guest choreographers. The program offers numerous performance opportunities throughout the year, both in our own beautiful New World Dance Theater and at other performance venues including the Adrienne Arsht Performing Arts Center and the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. The experienced professional faculty work to support the development of the individual artistic voices of each student as dancers, choreographers, and artists and the program overall serves to prepare these talented students for the professional world of dance, pursuing their own paths in this dynamic field.”
AUTUMN DANCES
The New World Dance Ensemble presented a captivating selection of performances, prominently featuring Robert Battle‘s Coming Home, a work deeply influenced by his Miami heritage and specifically designed for these talented students. As a distinguished alumnus of NWSA and the former Artistic Director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Battle now holds the position of Choreographer in Residence at the Paul Taylor Dance Company in New York City. This vibrant piece, enhanced by an uplifting musical score, offered a moving and energetic experience. The program also included Paul Taylor‘s renowned Esplanade, accompanied by J.S. Bach’s Violin Concerto in E Major, as well as other significant works such as Robert Garland‘s Joplin Dances, Jamar Roberts‘ innovative piece Circle Marries the Line, and Maleek Washington‘s contemporary creation Blink.
COLLEGE BFA DANCE
This year’s Senior BFA Concert, titled All at Once, showcased the innovative talents of Miami’s emerging dancemakers. The diverse program featured a range of captivating performances, including Shannon Lines’ aerial piece, Elle se Leve, which defied gravity, and Luciano Olivieri’s contemporary ballet, On the Horizon. Fabiola Castillo’s poignant work, La Misma Luna, was complemented by Aria Ramen’s clever group piece, Triple S, and Jeona Pinnock’s lively EchoHeart, which was enhanced by the live music of the local band, Black Nimbus.
NWSA dance professor, Lara Murphy, an alumna of NWSA, expressed her admiration for the students’ readiness to introspect on their identities as individuals and artists. In an era dominated by technology and artificial intelligence, artists play a crucial role in fostering our connection to humanity. Witnessing the students engage with dance through authentic vulnerability, profound physicality, and meaningful human connections is both inspiring and instills optimism for the future of the art form.
NWSA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT CHOREOGRAPHY SHOWCASE
The dance division of the New World School of the Arts presented an impressive array of new student works during its annual High School Student Choreography performance. This event featured pieces from fifteen emerging choreographers, highlighting a diverse range of styles that encompassed contemporary ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and modern dance
“Teaching Dance Composition and guiding the students through the Student Choreography Showcase is one of the most fulfilling parts of my job. I give them tools and watch them use them to cultivate their own voices. Every year, they push further choreographically. When the show is over in March, I always think, ‘well, it will be hard to top that next year.’ Every year they do.”
– Karin Bejerano, NWSA dance faculty
Notable performances included Zolan Laird’s graceful solo, Star is Born, and Tayvien Kindell’s dynamic group piece, The Wake of Shadows, which involved twelve dancers. Additionally, the collaborative work Every Now and Then, created by Kelsey Wong and Timia Clear, added to the program’s richness.
SPRING DANCES
The annual Spring Dances program, performed by NWSA college dances, featured a program of premieres created with and for the NWSA dancers. Robert Battle created an uplifting new work, Where the Light Lands set to the music of Felix Mendelsson; Darshan Singh Bhuller’s dramatic new work, Zeitgeist was set to music by Cassidy Byers and Philip Glass; and Jennifer Archibald choreographed a powerful new contemporary work, Shared Rain.
In addition, faculty member Francisco Graciano worked with the dancers to bring the premiere of this virtuosic ensemble piece, Nine Gates, to the stage, and Lara Murphy created a contemporary ballet trio en pointe, set to the beautiful work, Un Sospiro by Franz Liszt. This range of works challenged the dancers and engaged their audiences.
“Participating in Nine Gates by Francisco Graciano has been much more than learning a repertoire piece. It has helped me grow both as a dancer and as a person by developing greater adaptability, attention to detail, and appreciation for collaboration. This experience has strengthened my understanding of professional dancing and has inspired me to continue growing as an artist.”
– Amelie Ferreira-Aguero, NWSA dance student
HIGH SCHOOL SPRING DANCE CONCERT
The 2026 NWSA High School Spring Concert was a vibrant display of choreography and exceptional dance performances on the New World Dance Theater stage. NWSA high school dance teacher Teddy Talbot noted that assisting students in developing their technical skills, discipline, and artistic insight during their formative training is profoundly fulfilling.
“Over the years, through the collaborative mentorship of our faculty, it is gratifying to observe these attributes evolve into confidence, creative independence, and a comprehensive understanding of their identities as artists by the time they graduate.”
– Teddy Talbot, NWSA dance faculty
The program included Paul Taylor’s celebrated piece Airs, accompanied by the compositions of Mendelssohn and Bach, alongside a fresh creation titled Rumba & Co by contemporary choreographer Joan Rodriguez from the esteemed Los Angeles-based dance company Body Traffic. Additionally, Gentry Isaiah George presented the poignant work Flowers, set to the timeless melodies of Peter, Paul, and Mary, while Teddy Talbot unveiled his striking contemporary piece Uprooted. The concert also featured Lara Murphy‘s impressive contemporary ballet, Cortical Voyage.
CHOREOGRAPHERS AND DANCERS GRACE THE STUDIO
Guest artist works performed during the 2025-2026 season included new works by many of the pre-eminent choreographers of our time including: Robert Battle, Jennifer Archibald, Darshan Singh Bhuller, Paul Taylor, Joan Rodriguez, Jamar Roberts, David Parsons, and Maleek Washington. The performances of these works took place in a variety of venues, from the imposing Adrienne Arsht Ziff Ballet Opera House to the lovely Aventura Arts & Cultural Center and including the Marshall Davis African Heritage Cultural Arts Center, the New World Dance Theater and Coral Gables’ lovely Sanctuary of the Arts stage.
Student dancer Madison Calzadillo reflected on her experience working with Robert Battle, emphasizing its unforgettable impact. She expressed that the collaboration revealed the boundless nature of dance as an art form and highlighted her gratitude for being part of such a creative domain. Calzadillo noted that the world is fortunate to experience the beauty of movement, whether through participation or observation:
“Mr. Battle’s residency allowed me to grow in unexpected ways, both musically and artistically, providing invaluable opportunities for development during rehearsals and performances that I intend to carry forward throughout my dance career.”
“Collaborating with Darshan Singh Bhuller during the previous fall proved to be an inspiring experience. His unwavering commitment was complemented by a nurturing and inclusive environment. The creative process he fostered was genuinely collaborative, encouraging a thorough examination of the intent behind each movement while also providing room for individual interpretations from each dancer.”
– Alison Stone, NWSA dance student
THE YEAR IN SYMPHONY
DEAN OF MUSIC, DR. DANIEL ANDAI
“This year, the School of Music continued to expand opportunities for artistic excellence through a vibrant season of performances, collaborations, and educational experiences that showcased the extraordinary talent of our students and faculty. From faculty recitals and opera productions to concerto competitions, chamber music, jazz, musical theatre, and large ensemble performances, our students demonstrated remarkable growth across every discipline while engaging audiences throughout South Florida. A season highlight was our performances at the Adrienne Arsht Center, featuring our newest voice faculty member, Sarah Cambidge, whose artistry and mentorship exemplify the caliber of excellence we continue to attract. The addition of initiatives community outreach programs further strengthened our commitment to innovative training and professional development for emerging artists in the community. Together, these accomplishments reflect a program that is not only preparing exceptional musicians for successful careers but also elevating the cultural vitality of our community.”
OPERA SCENES AND VOICE CONCERTS
The NWSA Opera Scenes vividly showcased the essence of opera through a collection of interconnected vignettes, all centered around a single party directed by Sarah Cambidge, the newest faculty member of the music division. Attendees experienced a range of emotions, from romance and humor to heartbreak, culminating in a jubilant ensemble performance of Verdi’s Libiamo. The subsequent evening featured a recital by voice students from the NWSA high school choir under the direction of Dr. Giselle Rios, who presented an array of works by composers such as Wolf, Fauré, Bellini, and Puccini, among others.
NWSA LARGE AND SMALL ENSEMBLES EXCEL IN CONCERT
The New World School of the Arts Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Dr. Grant Gilman, delivered an enchanting musical experience at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts. The evening’s repertoire included notable classical pieces such as Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Serenade to Music, Johannes Brahms’ Symphony No. 4, and Richard Strauss’ Vier letzte Lieder. The concert featured the esteemed soprano Sarah Cambidge, a member of the NWSA music faculty, alongside the NWSA High School Choir and the NWSA College Opera Theatre Ensemble, both directed by Cambidge and Dr. Giselle Rios.
“I am thrilled to promote our newest faculty member, Sarah Cambidge, an outstanding professional artist who masters pedagogical approaches for students and creates a wow-factor among concertgoers. In this performance, professor Cambidge collaborates with her students to give them a front seat approach to what it takes to be a professional singer in Miami’s main concert hall while introducing Miami to its newest professional artist.”
– Dr. Daniel Andai, NWSA Dean of Music
The music division also featured saxophonist and guest artist Timothy Armacost in a residency consisting of masterclasses, rehearsals, and performance with students of the NWSA High School Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of faculty member Jim Gasior. The NWSA High School Wind Ensemble, under the direction of faculty member Brent Mounger, performed a series of performances throughout the year, partnering with local music schools and engaging audiences. Faculty member Dr. German Marcano was featured as cello soloist with the NWSA College Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Grant Gilman.
LA CLEMENZA DI TITO
La Clemenza di Tito, composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, was performed by the NWSA College Opera Theater Ensemble, directed by Sarah Cambidge, with the NWSA Opera Orchestra conducted by Dr. Grant Gilman at MDC North Campus. The opera portrays Emperor Tito, who rules with compassion in a city characterized by strict control. However, when ambition and desire lead to a conspiracy among his closest allies, loyalty disintegrates and violence ensues. Under the influence of Vitellia, Tito’s friend Sesto commits a fateful act that casts Rome into turmoil. As Mozart’s final opera, it is marked by its succinctness, intensity, and profound exploration of human nature. Set against a backdrop of fear and vengeance, La Clemenza di Tito poses a timeless inquiry: what form of power is truly lasting?
GENEROUS DONATION FOR THE MUSIC DIVISION
The Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation, in collaboration with the Miami Downtown Development Authority, advanced its outreach efforts by donating instruments and establishing a residency program worth $25,000 for the New World School of the Arts music division. This initiative not only supplies essential musical instruments but also offers students invaluable resources and practical experience through mentorship, alongside a residency featuring a LATIN GRAMMY award-winning guest artist.
The Latin GRAMMY In The Schools Program and Music Instrument Donation initiative featured three in-person workshop sessions at NWSA led by Carlitos Lopez, a Latin GRAMMY-winning director and producer, who collaborated with the NWSA Jazz Ensemble and the Orchestra on new Latin compositions tailored for the students. The initiative culminated with final performances, where the Jazz Ensemble followed by the Orchestra students showcased their work in front of a select audience that included team members of the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation, Christina Crespi, CEO and Executive Director of the Miami DDA accompanied by other members of the agency, District 4 Commissioner Ralph “Rafael” Rosado, and other distinguished guests.
“It’s such an important endeavor to connect the Latin music industry educations programs. This is where we harvest and find those who will be making music in the future”
– Carlitos Lopez
BLACK BOX CHRONICLES
DEAN OF THEATRE, ALAN PATRICK KENNY
“In a world that often asks us to move faster and look away, our students reminded us to pay attention. Through their artistry, imagination, and commitment to telling meaningful stories, they created moments of connection that brought people together and helped us see one another more fully. This season invited audiences to confront the pressures of a mechanized world in Machinal, wrestle with the complexities of love in Passion, laugh at the absurdities of power in The Government Inspector, examine truth and memory through ‘Til Death, and celebrate community and transformation in As You Like It. Along the way, our students demonstrated not only exceptional skill, but also courage, curiosity, and heart. Their recognition at the inaugural Arshties was a well-deserved affirmation of the talent and dedication that distinguished the entire season. That remains the enduring gift of theatre and the arts.”
MACHINAL
The 2025-2026 theatre season at New World School of the Arts kicked off with Machinal, directed by high school faculty member Silas Hoover. This 1928 expressionist drama by American playwright and journalist Sophie Treadwell draws inspiration from the true story of Ruth Snyder, a convicted murderer who became the first woman to be executed by electric chair in New York State. The play explores the protagonist’s struggle for liberation within a mechanized society, ultimately highlighting her futile quest for escape.
Olivia Vives, who portrayed the prosecution lawyer, noted, “This experience helped me explore different ways to create character depth. Rather than adhering to a linear character development approach, I incorporated more physical work, which shaped the character’s actions.” Ensemble member Tatum Horstmeyer added, “as a cog in a machine, we must breathe life into the characters to make them come alive.”
PASSION
Directed by Alan Patrick Kenny, Dean of Theater, the college musical theatre students presented the Tony Award-winning musical Passion, with a book by James Lapine and music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. Set against the backdrop of 1860s Italy, this captivating musical unfolds a tumultuous love triangle as a dashing army captain is assigned to a secluded military outpost, where he became enraptured by Fosca, the ailing cousin of his superior. Fosca’s intense yearning threatens to disrupt his career, leading to a thrilling exploration of obsession, desire, madness, and, ultimately, passion. Hany Bennamane, a sophomore in the BFA musical theatre program, expressed that taking on the role of Giorgio offered a chance to explore complex emotional truths, vulnerability, and psychological depth.
“The role demands a deep connection to Sondheim’s emotional musical score, which highlights vocal control and storytelling through song. It also pushes me to excavate the human contradiction of love as both a destructive and redemptive force. By navigating Giorgio’s moral and emotional transformation, I’m growing not just technically as an actor and singer, but as an artist.”
– Hany Bennamane, NWSA theatre student
THE GOVERNMENT INSPECTOR
Under the direction of NWSA theatre faculty James Samuel Randolph, two dozen college theatre students presented Nikolai Gogol’s absurd satire The Government Inspector. The work vividly illustrates the corruption prevalent in a provincial Russian village as local officials learn of an impending visit from an undercover inspector tasked with exposing their misdeeds.
“I’ve played many characters of age and service in my studies here (at NWSA), but this is my first time playing one in a farce. Applying what I have learned from more realistic roles to this play is where the challenge of this performance lies for me, and exploring Osip’s intelligence and experience while surrounded by confused village idiots makes for an incredibly fun playground. The opportunity to explore such material with the support of such a clever director and cast is what really helps a student like me grow.”
– Jose Sanchez Coronado, NWSA Theatre student
“What is exciting for our BFA program in theatre is that this style does not frequently appear in our seasons, yet it remains essential training for actors, writers, and directors. Many performing careers rely on understanding comedic sensibilities, embracing the ridiculous, and landing jokes effectively. This gives a way for the audience to find the lighter side of the more difficult aspects of political systems at every level.”
– James Samuel Randolph, NWSA theatre faculty
‘TIL DEATH
Written by NWSA theater alumna Alexis Scheer and directed by NWSA faculty member Jennifer de Castroverde, ‘Til Death, performed by the NWSA college acting students, examines themes of war, trauma, and personal relationships through the context of military experience, PTSD, marriage, memory, and journalism. The narrative follows Marina, a foreign war correspondent who has risked her life to document humanity’s darkest aspects. ‘Til Death premiered off-Broadway in 2024 under its original title, Breaking the Story, following a commission from Second Stage Theatre. Director de Castroverde expressed that her goal was for the audience to grasp the significance of truth during periods of silence, highlighting the bravery of young women in conflict zones who risk everything to ensure their stories are told, while emphasizing a poignant line from the play, which asserts that history exists only if it is documented. The production offered students a contemporary lens through which to examine current events, allowing them to engage with the interplay of politics and ideologies reflected in the art.
AS YOU LIKE IT
Directed by Maggie Maxwell, a faculty member and alumna of NWSA theatre, the high school musical theatre students offered a musical rendition of William Shakespeare’s As You Like It. This adaptation featured the innovative work of Tony Award-winning composer and lyricist Shaina Taub, known for her Broadway musical Suffs, who brings a fresh perspective to this timeless comedy. The story follows as Orlando, Duke Senior, his daughter Rosalind, and niece Celia are compelled to leave their homes, seeking refuge in the enchanting Forest of Arden. This magical setting served as a backdrop for transformation, where themes of friendship, familial conflict, and romantic disguise flourish, allowing the characters to discover a sense of community and acceptance beneath the starlit sky.
THE ARSHTIES
Two students from the New World School of the Arts’ high school theatre program were recognized at the inaugural Adrienne Arsht Center High School Musical Theater Awards Showcase – also known as The Arshties, an esteemed event that highlights outstanding student talent in Miami-Dade County, akin to the Tony Awards. Olivia Serrano-Salow, a senior at NWSA, received the award for Best Actress for her role as Rosalind in As You Like It, while Sophia Jaramillo won Outstanding Achievement in a Supporting Role for her performance as Silvia in the same production. Notably, New World School of the Arts accounted for 30% of the nominations in this inaugural year of the Arshties for their production of As You Like It.
“It is truly gratifying to see talented students from New World School of the Arts and throughout the county recognized by the Arsht Center for their incredible work, professionalism, and artistry. I’m very glad that the Arsht has launched this program and is shining the spotlight on our own rising stars here in Miami, before they take the world by storm.”
– Alan Patrick Kenny, NWSA Dean of Theatre
Serrano-Salow’s victory as an Arshtie winner allowed her to become a regional finalist at the renowned 2026 Jimmy Awards® in New York this summer. An alumna of the high school class of 2026, she was among the six students who received an award for Outstanding Performance in an Ensemble and performed on Broadway at the Jimmy Awards® ceremony.
FORM IN SPACE
DEAN OF VISUAL ARTS, O. GUSTAVO PLASCENCIA
“As I reflect on the 2025–2026 academic year, I’m reminded that what makes the Visual Arts Division so extraordinary isn’t just the work created in our studios—it’s the people who make this community thrive. This year, our students embraced new challenges, pushed the boundaries of their artistic practice, and demonstrated the curiosity and resilience that define great artists. Their work reflected not only technical excellence but also thoughtful engagement with the world around them. I am grateful to our faculty and staff for their unwavering dedication to our students and to our alumni, families, donors, and community partners for their continued support. Together, you make it possible for our students to thrive.”
NEW IMPRESSIONS
Curated by O. Gustavo Plascencia, the Dean of Visual Arts at NWSA, New Impressions presented the artistic contributions of three faculty members, each showcasing their distinct creative perspectives. At the NWSA visual arts division Jose Luis Garcia, a faculty member in art and photography, teaches a comprehensive curriculum that spans from introductory to advanced levels, emphasizing darkroom techniques, digital workflows, and alternative processes. Tatyana Iudean, new to NWSA to this year, brings a wealth of knowledge in education, graphic design, and research, with a diverse skill set that encompasses graphic design, book arts, UX/UI, web design, motion graphics, and emerging technologies. Ryan Sluggett, who also began his tenure at NWSA in 2025 is a multifaceted multimedia artist, who primarily focuses on painting and drawing while also delving into collage, film, animation, sculpture, and printmaking.
TECHNO-GRAPHIES
This dynamic exhibition explored the intersection of place, identity, and digital culture through the lens of contemporary art. Inspired by the aesthetics and ethos of techno—its rhythms, underground roots, and spatial dynamics—the exhibition presented works that map physical and virtual terrains shaped by technology. From immersive installations to digital landscapes and sound-based works, artists investigated how techno mediates our sense of location, community, and presence in an increasingly networked world.
UNTITLED ART, MIAMI BEACH
New World School of the Arts took part in Untitled Art, Miami Beach 2025, a significant contemporary art fair that occurs annually in December. This prestigious event featured over 150 exhibitors, comprising galleries and non-profit organizations from 29 countries and territories, representing more than 70 cities worldwide. In alignment with Untitled Art’s dedication to promoting diversity within its programming, the fair introduced a new sector specifically for non-profit organizations, where NWSA present its project, Sustaining Ecologies. The NWSA exhibition examined the dynamic relationships between environmental sustainability, cultural production, and education, explained O. Gustavo Plascencia, Dean of Visual Arts at NWSA. “In collaboration with faculty, alumni, and visual arts students, the project explored the fragile yet resilient ecosystems that define Miami, including its coastal landscape, immigrant communities, and artistic networks.”
COMPETITION YIELDS BOLD DESIGN
The Miami-Dade Days Ties and Scarves Competition, a cherished tradition that has engaged New World School of the Arts college graphic design students for nearly four decades, once again showcased the essence of Miami-Dade County at the state capital. This year’s winning design, created by NWSA college visual arts student Emily Jimenez, presented a vibrant depiction of the streets of “THE Miami.” Utilizing a bold color palette, the design highlights the contours of South Florida, promoting a sense of community and belonging among viewers while reminding them of their common heritage. Growing up in New York City, Emily drew inspiration from the rich blend of cultures and the vibrancy of the urban surroundings found in the city.
“Watching students push their ideas further with each critique and grow more confident in their voices was one of the most rewarding parts of my first year as a full-time faculty member at NWSA. Having worked so closely with them this year, I’m excited to continue that journey and shape next year’s classes around the strengths, curiosity, and potential I’ve already had the privilege to witness.”
– Tatyana Iudean, NWSA graphic design faculty
“From the rooftop tags and expressive graffiti that adorn the cityscape, my environment has been a continuous source of inspiration. As a communication arts graduate now pursuing a degree in graphic design, I am driven by a deep passion for capturing the myriad perspectives of those around me and bringing them to life. I am excited to continue this journey, to keep exploring, creating, and sharing my unique perspective through typography.”
– Emily Jimenez, NWSA visual arts student
During the 2026 spring legislative session, where many participants donned the latest creations from the Miami-Dade Days Ties and Scarves initiative, Emily, along with NWSA Provost Dr. Jeffrey Hodgson and Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, witnessed the realization of her artistic vision.
MOTHER TURTLE DESIGN WINNERS
New World School of the Arts once more highlighted its talented students in the community through the new Mother Turtle Designs. The stunning new design, crafted by student Nicole Serrano, was added to the existing collection of turtle sculptures now displayed in the town of Surfside in Miami Beach. Two other students from NWSA were also acknowledged for their contributions, securing second place and an honorable mention for their designs.
In partnership with Frank Trigueros, the Director of Tourism & Communications, in tandem with the town of Surfside, encouraged NWSA students to draw inspiration from the local area and create unique narratives through their artwork. The Resort Tax Board’s sponsorship of the contest motivated students to present their most innovative design ideas, resulting in the selection of Nicole Serrano and Noah Caballero’s designs, painted by local artist Cavan Koebel and installed the beach entrance on 92nd Street. Surfside’s Turtle Walk initiative aims to raise awareness about sea turtle conservation through a public art exhibition featuring over a dozen vibrant fiberglass turtles, each uniquely designed by prominent local artists commissioned by the town.
BFA EXHIBITION – WHAT OF THE OBVIOUS
The NWSA Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) exhibition showcased the culminating projects of senior students, reflecting a rich variety of individual artistic practices across multiple disciplines. Each project revealed a deep dedication to personal inquiry, material exploration, and conceptual richness. This exhibition marked a pivotal transition from student to emerging artist, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of contemporary art.
“As a former student who went through the BFA program, it was a nostalgic and fulfilling experience working with the BFA Class of 2026 during my first year as a full-time professor. The process of working during the year-long course granted students and faculty the time to invest deeply in the artistic practice that reflects our students’ unique perspectives and artistic achievements.”
– Jose Luis Garcia, NWSA photography faculty
Collaborating with the Design District, the students hosted an ambitious exhibition at the Menil Building, which attracted over 400 attendees at its opening. Local curators commended the students’ artwork, and many of the artists were present to engage in meaningful discussions with guests about their creative journeys and artistic expressions.
NWSA ALUM PARTICIPATES IN PRESTIGIOUS WHITNEY BIENNIAL
Leonardo Castañeda, a 2006 alumnus of the New World School of the Arts visual arts division, participated in the 2026 Whitney Biennial. The theme for this edition delved into diverse forms of relationships, examining aspects such as familial ties, our engagement with technology, interspecies connections, and geopolitical interactions, among other relevant subjects. This esteemed event, now in its 82nd year, holds the distinction of being the longest-running survey of American art.
“Selection for the Whitney Biennial represents one of the highest distinctions in contemporary American art. Leo Castañeda’s inclusion in the 2026 Biennial is a powerful affirmation of the excellence, innovation, and critical engagement that define his artistic practice. As a graduate of New World School of the Arts high school, Leo’s achievement underscores the vital role of rigorous arts education in cultivating visionary artists whose work resonates on a national and international stage. This milestone reflects both Leo’s exceptional career trajectory and the enduring impact of NWSA’s commitment to nurturing emerging creative voices.”
– O. Gustavo Plascencia, NWSA Dean of Visual Arts
CURTAIN CALL
RISING STARS
The annual Rising Stars showcase of New World School of the Arts once again illuminated the stage at Miami’s Adrienne Arsht Center Ziff Opera House. Under the direction of NWSA Dean of Theater Alan Patrick Kenny, the event featured a captivating array of dance, music, and theater excerpts performed by students throughout the academic year. Dr. Jeffrey Hodgson, Provost and CEO of New World School of the Arts, emphasized the importance of providing students with opportunities to display their talents in professional environments, stating that Rising Stars epitomizes this commitment. One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Rising Stars alumni Award, this year awarded to NWSA theatre alumna and distinguished actress, Andréa Burns. Rising Stars kicked off with an arts exhibition at the New World Gallery the evening before the performing arts showcase. Curated by Dean of Visual Arts, O. Gustavo Plascencia, the multidisciplinary visual arts show highlighted a selection of works from select high school and college visual arts students, showcasing their creativity and talent and artistic training.
“Organizing such a high-quality showcase entails extensive rehearsal, preparation, and resources, which the faculty and administration carefully plan for each academic year. Our partnership with Bank of America along with our educational partners, enables NWSA to enhance students’ artistic development, fostering their growth while connecting the next generation of artists with the South Florida community.”
– Dr. Jeffrey Hodgson, NWSA Provost & CEO
ALUMNI HIGHLIGHT – RUTKA
Amy Langer and David Schwartz, alumni of the New World School of the Arts, visited Miami to share the creative process behind their acclaimed musical, Rutka, which has been highlighted by The New York Times as one of the 15 must-see productions in the United States. This exclusive event showcased a combination of personal narratives, performances by gifted musical theatre students from New World School of the Arts and offered a preview of footage from the musical’s world premiere in Cincinnati, which took place in the Fall of 2024. Rutka is a profoundly emotional work inspired by the authentic diary of Rutka Laskier, a teenage girl who chronicled her life during the German occupation of Poland in 1943. The 60-page diary, written by the 14-year-old Rutka, provides a touching glimpse into her youthful reflections, expressing her aspirations and anxieties while residing with her family in the Jewish Ghetto of Bedzin, Poland.