DECEMBER 2022

Hello First Act Theatre Arts friends!

We have so much to be thankful for! During this time of year, we look back and give thanks for all that we’ve accomplished at First Act KC and the lives we’ve impacted throughout the year. We’ve helped our students fulfill their dreams, build character and grow spiritually. That is all made possible by you – our parents, extended family, alumni, and supporters. Whether you donate time, talent or treasures, you are valued. You all have answered the bell time and time again and as we continue to build momentum as First Act Theatre Arts, your involvement remains critical, appreciated and very much needed in all aspects of our operation. 

This organization has been through a tremendous amount of change over the past two plus years. Change in life is a guarantee – it will happen. However, I’m pleased to say on behalf of the Board of Directors and staff that we remain constant in our pursuit of theatrical education excellence, our commitment to providing a safe, caring, and nurturing environment for our students, and love for our Father. Those things will not change.

During this month of December, I’d like you to consider a year end gift of any size to First Act KC. We’re planning a special outreach starting later this month that you’ll want to be on the lookout for. We continue to have specific needs like lighting equipment and live musicians, as well as funding for scholarships and general operating expenses. We greatly appreciate your gift during this giving time of year.

In the spirit of giving I’ll end with this verse that Paul wrote in a letter to the Corinthians (9:7): Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Thank you and God bless.

Jerry Lynch

Board President

Follow First Act KC on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to see exciting summer camp announcements AND the Twelve Days of First Act KC as we ring in the new year!

Executive Director

First Act KC is looking for a decisive and business-minded leader with a sense of adventure and passion for the performing arts to fill the Executive Director position. Questions? Email our search committee at execdirposition@firstactkc.org!

The Executive Director supported by the Artistic and Education Directors, advances the overall success and sustainability of First Act Theatre Arts. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the ED will be responsible for the administration and management of all business operations, finances, fundraising, marketing, and community engagement. They will activate their financial acumen, operational expertise, and experience in advancing the mission and goals of First Act Theatre Arts. This individual will provide caring and creative leadership to staff, families, and board members. They will guide programs and services, facilitate organizational excellence, and ensure that First Act Theatre Arts is a forum for artistic expression and audience engagement.

The Executive Director will value the organization’s past and craft new initiatives that build on First Act Theatre Arts commitment to encouraging excellence in the theatrical arts, fostering character and community building through training, performance, and fellowship in a faith-based environment.

Bookkeeper

First Act KC is looking for a detailed-oriented, flexible individual with a working understanding of accounting principles to fill the Bookkeeper position. Questions? Email our Interim Executive Director, Ellen Breth, at executivedirector@firstactkc.org!

The Bookkeeper performs general accounting duties, such as maintaining a complete set of financial records, keeping track of accounts, and verifying the accuracy of procedures used for recording financial transactions. They are responsible for handling payroll processing, writing of checks, and making sure payments are made on a timely basis. The Bookkeeper also makes sure taxes are paid on time and handles year-end tax processing, such as 1099’s, W-2’s, and working with an accounting firm to create the 990 at the end of the fiscal year.

Swing Night at First Act KC

Dec. 3rd, 7:00-9:00 PM, Ages 12-18, $15

Come out for our winter swing night and join us for some good music and great dancing! There will be snacks and a short swing class at the beginning of the night to get everyone caught up to speed.

Sign up here: Swing Night Sign Up

Dancer Workout Workshop

Dec. 5th, 7:00-8:30 PM, Ages 12-18, $25

Get ready to dance, sweat, and have fun! This upbeat workshop is for dancers who are interested in keeping their bodies in optimal dance condition during the off season. The focus will be on strength and conditioning as well as cardio.

Register at firstactkc.org!

Parent's Day Out with Dance Company

Dec. 18th, 3:00-5:00 PM, Ages 4-8, $30/kid, $50/2 kids

The First Act Dance Company is hosting a day for younger dancers to come spend the afternoon with our dancers while parents are free to spend the afternoon Christmas shopping or whatever other errands they need to get done. During this time, we will teach a dance and do other fun activities with the kids. It will be a great time!

Register at firstactkc.org!

Spring Classes start January 9th and conclude the week of April 10th!

Contemporary Musical Theatre - Acting/Voice - Ages 7-18 - Thursdays



Not all great musical theatre is dance based, sometimes a piece can be just as captivating when the focus is put on characters and their journey. This class will combine vocal and acting techniques it takes to bring to life the songs from Dear Evan Hansen, Hadestown, Come From Away, and Waitress.

Dynamic Duos - Acting/Dance - Ages 12-18 - Mondays

The stage is so much better when you can share it with someone. This class will focus solely on partner work both through dance and acting. Students will learn all about partner dancing while learning combinations from popular Broadway musicals and then take that partner work into scenes from great American stage classics. During this class students will switch partners to learn how to work with different people.

FUNdamentals - Acting/Dance - Ages 7-12 - Mondays

Every great performer needs a solid foundation BUT we also believe that performing should be FUN! In this class students will divide their class time between Acting and Dance. Students will learn the fundamentals of dance while learning fun routines to some upbeat music from the Broadway stage. In acting students will explore improv and acting basics and learn how to create characters and tell a story through words and movement.

Our three winter shows are off to a great start! Tickets are on sale now for Into the Woods, The Music Man and The Little Mermaid. Get those front row seats before they're gone!

December 2 - Music Man 1st Parent Meeting

December 3 - Swing Night

December 5 - Dancer Workout Workshop

December 6 - Little Mermaid 1st Parent Meeting

December 18 - Dance Company: Parent's Day Out

December 21 - January 2nd - Office Closed for Christmas Break

January 9th - Spring Classes Begin