Event Details
The Academy, originally founded as Kidz Konnection in 2006 by NYU Tisch graduate Laura Attanasio, is an inclusive youth theater community where students explore the arts, build confidence, and find a supportive “home away from home.” Its mission is to develop self-empowered, community-minded leaders through performing arts education. The Academy awards an annual $5,000 scholarship to a graduating senior and upholds a “no child left behind” policy by providing financial assistance to any child in need.
In 2017, the organization moved to the historic 1801 Academy building in Clinton, expanding into a full performing arts center for all ages. In 2019–20, students raised $36,000 to restore and modernize the second floor. Today, the Academy produces 14 shows annually—including musicals, Shakespeare, junior productions, and contemporary plays—while offering theater, dance, and voice classes for ages 5 through adult.
The Academy actively serves the community through free summer theater, local events, and partnerships with organizations such as Families Helping Families, the Adam Stanton House, and Senior Connections. It has reached thousands of students across Connecticut’s shoreline and beyond, inspiring a love of the arts, learning, and positive community engagement.
Bank of America is increasing your gifts to performing arts organizations like ours. Our organization will receive a pro-rated match based on the number of unique donors who give during the Raise the Curtain Power Hour – 8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on May 6. Many arts organizations will be highlighting their work during this hour with video and performances for your entertainment.