Theaters bring Broadway, Hollywood to Henderson

By Mandy Walton

Friday, Jan. 23, 2009 | 6:50 p.m.

It all started with a dream and an empty garage. Dance and acting lessons led to hit plays in the northwest part of the valley. Fast-forward a few years later and Margie Seastrand and the Hollywood Kids Academy have two full-service theaters and are now bringing one to Henderson.

“We are a triple-threat studio, which means that kids can participate in voice, theater, or dance, or all three if they wish,” says Seastrand, founder of the academy.

Each semester, the kids perform a Broadway play or Hollywood movie review. On Feb. 13, Henderson will have the chance to see “Oliver” and help the Hollywood Kids Academy further their institution in Henderson.

Two fundraiser shows will take place at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and costs $10 for adults and $5 for youth and seniors.

“We’ve opened some classes at the American Heritage Academy and now we need to focus on rebuilding the stage and putting in a new dance floor. This show will help us raise funds for that,” Seastrand said.

The American Heritage Academy at 6126 S. Sandhill Road is a private school, however, any child can register for classes from the Hollywood Kids Academy.

Children from ages 3 to19 are eligible for enrollment. There’s also a “Mommy and Me” class for mothers and their 3 to 4 year olds called “Fairy Tale Dance.”

Tickets for the fundraiser show can be purchased by calling 283-1083 or at the door. If you are interested in being a part of the Hollywood Kids Academy in Henderson, visit their website at www.hollywoodkidsacademy.com.