Led by our professional theatre instructors Franco Pedicini and Arielle Sherman, students will build confidence and develop their performance skills through acting, improvisation, scene study, vocal technique, stage presence, breath work, and writing original material to perform. 

Throughout the ten-week program, students will collaborate on songs and scenes while strengthening teamwork, communication, and self-expression, culminating in a Holiday Spectacular for family and friends – just in time for the Bedford tree lighting weekend! 

Whether new to the stage or an experienced performer, this after-school program will invite every student to take creative risks, explore their unique artistic voice, and discover the joy of theatre.

FRANCO PEDICINI

Franco holds a B.A. in English Literature and Theatre from Stony Brook University and an M.A. in Theatre from Hunter College. He is a member of Actors’ Equity Association and the Educational Theatre Association. He also serves as Theatre Director at Rippowam Cisqua School in Bedford, New York.

ARIELLE SHERMAN

Arielle currently serves as Director of Vocal Music at Rippowam Cisqua School in Bedford, NY.  She has taught vocal music in public and private schools, and served as a private vocal coach for the past 20 years. Arielle’s coaching can currently be seen and heard on Netflix, Broadway, GAP’s 2019 Fall Campaign, SONY’s Annie Movie and SONY’s The Star. Arielle holds degrees from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, and Masters from Teachers College at Columbia University and The Juilliard School.
Broadway: Into the Woods, Legally Blonde
Off-Broadway: Urinetown