New Talent Development Program, Artistic Director at The Bushnell

HARTFORD, CT — The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts, a leader in arts-in-education and talent development, announces the launch of the Ensign-Darling New Voices (EDNV) program, its new artistic director, and celebrates the conclusion of the Ensign Darling Vocal Fellowship with its 2021 virtual concert premiere on YouTube, Sunday, August 29 at 8pm.

Formerly known as Ensign-Darling Vocal Fellowship (EDVF), this talent development initiative at The Bushnell was founded by Robert (Bob) Ensign Darling, Jr. in 2002 as a scholarship vocal program for select, talented and highly motived high school aged singers interested in classical and musical theater.

In its rebranding and reimagining, Ensign Darling New Voices is a platform for innovative, transformative, and unique storytelling for creative vocalists, ages 15-19, in musical theater, classical/opera, pop/rock, hip hop/rap, jazz/R&B, country, gospel, folk, and Latin/international music, and more. The program seeks to engage with emerging artists, meeting them “where they are” in their artistic journey, and offers private instruction, monthly masterclasses, and collaborative work, culminating in an end-of-year concert performance in the Spring of 2022 at The Bushnell.

“As we work to shape the program to meet the needs of young artists in an ever-evolving industry, I look forward to continuing to build a creative, collaborative, and inclusive environment for exploration of artistry, storytelling, and music!” says newly appointed Artistic Director, Ariana Valdes, an alumna of the very first EDVF class. Ms. Valdes, a performer with more than 15 years of professional experience, returns to The Bushnell after performing both nationally and internationally in touring Broadway and regional productions.

Earlier this year, Ms. Valdes joined The Bushnell to successfully direct the final class of the EDVF in their culminating concert. A preview of things to come and a departure from the past concert format, it will premier on The Bushnell’s Facebook and YouTube channels Sunday, August 29 at 8pm.

Those interested in applying for the inaugural class of the EDNV program should visit Bushnell.org/EDNV for more information on digital audition submission requirements. The Bushnell strongly encourages BIPOC, LGBTQIA, and performers of all ethnicities and gender identities, as well as those with disabilities, to audition. Due date for video submissions is Sunday, September 12 at 11:59pm. Those with questions can reach out to avaldes@bushnell.org for more information.