Pequot Library To Host New Summer Conservatory Program For Children

FAIRFIELD, CT — Pequot Library in Southport will host a weeklong summer conservatory program for children ages 7 to 13 from June 20 to 26, offering instruction in musical theater from professional artists.

The program will include training in voice, acting and stage movement, led by a faculty that includes a Juilliard-trained opera singer, a Broadway performer and a touring musician. Organizers said the curriculum is designed to help participants develop performance skills through daily workshops focused on vocal technique, character development, movement and ensemble collaboration.

Students of varying experience levels will receive individualized guidance, with an emphasis on building stage presence, discipline and confidence in a supportive environment.

During the program, participants will work with instructors to create an original performance incorporating music, movement and storytelling inspired by themes from America’s founding era. The session will conclude with a staged showcase for family and friends.

"This conservatory is about giving young people access to real artistic training in a nurturing environment," said Peter Van Heerden, Executive Director at Pequot Library, in a statement. "Working with professional performers not only builds skills, but also inspires confidence, creativity, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts."

For more information about the conservatory program, visit the library's website at pequotlibrary.org.

ABOUT THE FACULTY MEMBERS:

Cyrus J. Madan is a Connecticut based pianist, organist, musician, recording artist, bandleader, voiceover actor, and educator. Since 1997 he has been a member of Deep Banana Blackout, the highly acclaimed musical force on the East Coast live music scene. DBB has been touring the world alongside musicians and bands such as The Allman Brothers Band, James Brown, and Parliament Funkadelic. In addition, he is a founding member and musical director of Borboletta: a Tribute to Santana and performs regularly with several other musicians and musical acts. Since 2003, Cyrus has also shared his love of music as a private tutor in Fairfield.

Nili Bassman is an award winning actress whose career includes Broadway, film, television, print work, and theatres across the United States. Recent on-screen credits include The Night Agent, The Blacklist, Law & Order, The Strange Dark (available on Apple TV and Amazon Prime), The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, FBI: Most Wanted, and the short film User Zero (available on HBO). Broadway credits include Chicago, Curtains, Never Gonna Dance, The Addams Family (workshop). As a coach and teacher, Nili has worked with children, teens and adults - from beginners to professional actors. Recent local teaching credits include FTC arts program,
SHU Moviemakers, and the Regional Center for the Arts in Trumbull. Nili grew up in Northern Virginia and is the proud mom of two and lucky wife of one. More at nilibassman.com.

Lucia Palmieri is a critically acclaimed, Juilliard-trained operatic dramatic soprano. Born in Westport, CT, Lucia's unique voice and artistry have captivated audiences worldwide. As seen on BRAVO TV, ABC, NBC, ESPN, and the US OPEN, Lucia's professional performance have earned her international recognition. Lucia has performed multiple roles in the New York City area, including the 9th Avenue Street Festival, The New York Public Library, and leading roles in the Central Park Summer Series. In addition to her performance career, Lucia serves as a Catholic Music Director, where she shares her passion for sacred music with the community. Palmieri remains a celebrated figure in the music world, cherished for her talent, passion, and dedication to the art of music.