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By Vanessa Ogle
Brooklyn Daily
Eighth graders at Marine Park’s IS 278 learned theater tips and tricks on Oct. 29 from Broadway’s Tommy Bracco, who starred in the show “Newsies.” The musical thespian led a dynamic dance workshop for 13- and 14-year-old students interested in the arts.
Bracco choreographed a routine to the Broadway song, “King of New York,” performed the piece with the teens, and talked about his Broadway experience. But most importantly, he taught the youngsters about the power of determination — especially in show business, said a faculty member.
“He spoke about perseverance and continuing to fight for what you want to do, to be positive, and to never give up,” said Candis Pohl, the school’s band director.
Pohl said the school isn’t tailored exclusively to the arts, but the principal puts an emphasis on maintaining arts programs that other schools have cut.
“The arts are extremely supported,” said Pohl. “She values the arts programs.”
Many of the students are prepping for their high school entrance auditions, and many want to attend the city’s legendary performing arts school LaGuardia High — Bracco’s alma mater — which was portrayed in “Fame.”
Because admission to the elite school is fiercely competitive, and many aspirants don’t get in, Pohl thought Bracco’s advice to the young performers on persistence will be crucial for their futures.
“Just because someone said no, doesn’t mean you give up,” said Pohl.