News
The Borland Project Space
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As a part of the College of Arts and Architecture at Penn State, the Borland Project is a space where artisits can exhibit their current artistic research. This fall Austin will be working on a new piece titled, Capsid: A Love Song based on the Lambda Literary Nominated essay of the same title. Austin will be hosting four free events on the University Park Campus, that are open to the public. We hope you will join us to discuss HIV/AIDS and the work of queer writer and scientist Joseph Osmundson.
Tuesday, September 19 from 4:30-5:30 in 125 Borland, University Park (Free Borland Project Space Event)- HIV/AIDS From Epidemic to Treatment: a panel discussion on the history of HIV/AIDS, medical treatment, and their representations in art. Speakers: Christopher Reed (Professor of English, Visual Culture, and Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies), Colin hogan (PhD Candidate in English), Christopher Staley (Distinguished Professor of Art) Tuesday, September 26 from 4:30-6 in 125 Borland, University Park (Free Borland Project Space Event)- Biology of the HIV/AIDS Virus and Prevention/Treatment: a panel discussion on how the virus works, and current ways to treat and prevent the virus. Speakers: Kirsten Burkhart (Executive Director of AIDS Resource), Jessica Conway (Assistant Professor of Mathematics, HIV/SIV transmission dynamics), Joshua Rosenberger (Assistant Professor of Behavioral Health, HIV/STI Prevention), Dr. Curtis Swagler (DO, UHS Physician), Nora Miginnis (CPRN, UHS and CAPS) Tuesday, October 3 from 4:30-5:30 in 125 Borland, University Park (Free Borland Project Space Event)- Capsid: A Love Song: Join us for a new performance-piece based on the Lambda literary-nominated Capsid: A Love Song written by scientist and writer Joseph Osmundson. This performance will bring together elements of biology, poetry, theatre and dance for a 30 minute exploration of how HIV continues to be experienced in the gay community. An optional talkback will follow the performance. Tuesday, October 10 from 4:30-6:30 in 125 Borland, University Park (Free Borland Project Space Event)- Author, scientist and Food 4 Thot podcast host Joseph Osmundson will be on campus to do a reading of his work Capsid: A Love Song, speak about his current research as a postdoctoral fellow in systems biology at NYU, and answer any questions from the audience. |
Showa University of Music
Austin is very excited to return for a week to teach the Musical Theatre students at Showa University in Tokyo, Japan!
Playbill Article
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Austin received a mention in Playbill this week for, Broadway Kids: Where are They Now?
Check out the article: http://www.playbill.com/article/23-performers-who-got-their-start-as-a-broadway-kid |
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Nu.Musical Festival - Elektric
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Austin is excited to start work on the 2017 Nu.Musical Festival directing the world premierie of Elektric the Musical. He is thrilled to be working with the writers Caleb and Emmie Smith.
Here is an article talking about this exciting new musical: http://www.centredaily.com/entertainment/this-weekend/article161165178.html |
Penn State Dance Concert
This April, Austin is presenting 3 pieces in the Spring Dance Concert.
Seriously - Based on Obama's reaction to a Trump Presidency
Silence = Death - A look at how the AIDS crisis has, and hasn't, changed over the last 20 years
The Gates of Hope - we look at how maintaining a voice in the arts can lead to positive action and change in a time we need it most.
Join us - April 21 and 22 at 7:30 in the Penn State School of Theatre Playhouse
Seriously - Based on Obama's reaction to a Trump Presidency
Silence = Death - A look at how the AIDS crisis has, and hasn't, changed over the last 20 years
The Gates of Hope - we look at how maintaining a voice in the arts can lead to positive action and change in a time we need it most.
Join us - April 21 and 22 at 7:30 in the Penn State School of Theatre Playhouse
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The Broadway Experience
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Austin has been asked to give a lecture about Broadway Swings to the students of The Broadway Experience. |
Musiktheater Bavaria 2016
Autin returns as the Head of the Musical Theatre department for his fifth and final summer. He has had a fantastic time time with MTB and can't wait to work with the amazing Musical Theatre faculty including: Dr. Pamelia Phillips (NYC Voice Teacher and Author of Singing for Dummies), Marc McBride (London based Music Director and MD for Celerbrity Cruises), Tera-Lee Pollin (NYC Performer and Teacher), and Dean Wilmington (Austrailan Music Director based in Germany). Check out Musiltheater Bavaria for next year's dates.
Promos for Broadway Swings
Choreographer for 2 Penn State Spring Mainstage Productions
110 In the Shade
Music by Harvey Schmidt Book by N. Richard Nash Lyrics by Tom Jones Directed by Richard Roland Choreographed by J. Austin Eyer February 16-27, 2016 Playhouse Theatre BUY TICKETS |
Penn State Spring Faculty Dance Concert
Featuring works by Michele Dunleavy and J. Austin Eyer February 11, 12, 13 at 7:30pm in Theatre Room 119 |
Two Events in NYC to Celebrate: Broadway Swings
Series of events to celebrate the book to be hosted by authors J. Austin Eyer and Lyndy Franklin Smith, in New York City, October 24-25.
NEW YORK, NY (October 14, 2015) -- Broadway veterans J. Austin Eyer and Lyndy Franklin Smith’s new book BROADWAY SWINGS: COVERING THE ENSEMBLE IN MUSICAL THEATRE. Bloomsbury Publishing will release the title on October 22, 2015.
BROADWAY SWINGS is a comprehensive guide on how to be a Swing (understudy of the ensemble) in musical theatre. This position is examined from every angle, showing just how vital Swings are to the success of any musical theatre production.
Authors J. Austin Eyer and Lyndy Franklin Smith draw on their own experiences as performers, and gather first-hand stories from other Swings about the glories and hardships of their industry. The book features interviews with over 100 Broadway pros-- Swing veterans, Stage Managers, Casting Directors, Choreographers, and Directors- including Rob Ashford, Susan Stroman, Jerry Mitchell, Larry Fuller, Tony Stevens, Beverley Randolph, and Frank DiLella.
Eyer and Franklin Smith are hosting two events in New York City, in conjunction with the release of the book.
The first is the “How to be a Swing Workshop,” to be held Saturday October 24th from 11:00am-2:00pm at CAP21 Studios (18 West 18th Street, 6th floor, Room 606). Eyer and Franklin Smith will host a Q&A session and walk participants through the life of the Swing and how to prepare for this monumental job. In the second half of the workshop, participants will learn a short combination and practice Swing skills while learning to swing in and out of a production number. All levels of dancers are welcome to attend! To attend, participants must make a reservation by emailing the title of the workshop (How to be a Swing Workshop) and their name to BroadwayDonation@gmail.com. There is a suggested donation of $20 to attend. (Event Sponsored by Broadway Donation.)
The second event will be the “Broadway Swings Launch Celebration.” Swings, swings-to-be and anyone interested in the book is welcome to attend. The authors will be celebrating the release of the book and the over 100 artists who help contribute to its content. The event will be held on Sunday October 25th from 11:00am-1:00pm at CAP21 Studios (18 West 18th Street, 6th Floor studio 606.)
NEW YORK, NY (October 14, 2015) -- Broadway veterans J. Austin Eyer and Lyndy Franklin Smith’s new book BROADWAY SWINGS: COVERING THE ENSEMBLE IN MUSICAL THEATRE. Bloomsbury Publishing will release the title on October 22, 2015.
BROADWAY SWINGS is a comprehensive guide on how to be a Swing (understudy of the ensemble) in musical theatre. This position is examined from every angle, showing just how vital Swings are to the success of any musical theatre production.
Authors J. Austin Eyer and Lyndy Franklin Smith draw on their own experiences as performers, and gather first-hand stories from other Swings about the glories and hardships of their industry. The book features interviews with over 100 Broadway pros-- Swing veterans, Stage Managers, Casting Directors, Choreographers, and Directors- including Rob Ashford, Susan Stroman, Jerry Mitchell, Larry Fuller, Tony Stevens, Beverley Randolph, and Frank DiLella.
Eyer and Franklin Smith are hosting two events in New York City, in conjunction with the release of the book.
The first is the “How to be a Swing Workshop,” to be held Saturday October 24th from 11:00am-2:00pm at CAP21 Studios (18 West 18th Street, 6th floor, Room 606). Eyer and Franklin Smith will host a Q&A session and walk participants through the life of the Swing and how to prepare for this monumental job. In the second half of the workshop, participants will learn a short combination and practice Swing skills while learning to swing in and out of a production number. All levels of dancers are welcome to attend! To attend, participants must make a reservation by emailing the title of the workshop (How to be a Swing Workshop) and their name to BroadwayDonation@gmail.com. There is a suggested donation of $20 to attend. (Event Sponsored by Broadway Donation.)
The second event will be the “Broadway Swings Launch Celebration.” Swings, swings-to-be and anyone interested in the book is welcome to attend. The authors will be celebrating the release of the book and the over 100 artists who help contribute to its content. The event will be held on Sunday October 25th from 11:00am-1:00pm at CAP21 Studios (18 West 18th Street, 6th Floor studio 606.)
Order your Copy of Broadway Swings
Our book is finally here! Lyndy and I have been working for a few years to bring this important piece of Broadway History to life. Broadway Swings is part "how to" and part "stories from the life of a Swing."
In this textbook for performers, the position of a Swing-an Understudy for the Ensemble-on Broadway is examined from every angle, showing just how vital Swings are to the success of any musical theatre production.
Authors J. Austin Eyer and Lyndy Franklin Smith draw on their own experiences as performers, and gather first-hand stories from other Swings about the glories and hardships of their industry. The book features interviews with over 100 Broadway pros-Swing veterans, Stage Managers, Casting Directors, Choreographers, and Directors-including Rob Ashford, Susan Stroman, Jerry Mitchell, Larry Fuller, Tony Stevens, Beverley Randolph, and Frank DiLella.
Broadway Swings is the ideal guide for anyone considering a career in this most unique of positions, or anyone curious about what really goes on, behind-the- scenes, in a long-running show.
“As this text so wonderfully captures, swings are mathematicians, artists, soloists, team members, team leaders, peacekeepers, and miracle-workers. What a gift to have their stories told! Future swings, take this gift and run with it!” – Andy Blankenbuehler, Choreographer
“A revelation! . . . This user-friendly guide explains everything you need to know to be a successful swing or cover on any stage, anywhere. It takes all of the confusion and intimidation out of the job and explains every responsibility in detail. A guaranteed gem!'” – Lyn Cramer, University of Oklahoma
In this textbook for performers, the position of a Swing-an Understudy for the Ensemble-on Broadway is examined from every angle, showing just how vital Swings are to the success of any musical theatre production.
Authors J. Austin Eyer and Lyndy Franklin Smith draw on their own experiences as performers, and gather first-hand stories from other Swings about the glories and hardships of their industry. The book features interviews with over 100 Broadway pros-Swing veterans, Stage Managers, Casting Directors, Choreographers, and Directors-including Rob Ashford, Susan Stroman, Jerry Mitchell, Larry Fuller, Tony Stevens, Beverley Randolph, and Frank DiLella.
Broadway Swings is the ideal guide for anyone considering a career in this most unique of positions, or anyone curious about what really goes on, behind-the- scenes, in a long-running show.
“As this text so wonderfully captures, swings are mathematicians, artists, soloists, team members, team leaders, peacekeepers, and miracle-workers. What a gift to have their stories told! Future swings, take this gift and run with it!” – Andy Blankenbuehler, Choreographer
“A revelation! . . . This user-friendly guide explains everything you need to know to be a successful swing or cover on any stage, anywhere. It takes all of the confusion and intimidation out of the job and explains every responsibility in detail. A guaranteed gem!'” – Lyn Cramer, University of Oklahoma
Austin Teaches for Showa University of Music
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Austin took his first trip to Japan this year to teach a one week master class for all of the Musical Theatre Students at Show University.
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Austin Teaches for the Joop Van Den Ende Academy
Austin had an amazing time teaching for the Joop Van Den Ende Academy in Hamburg, Germany. This amazing school is connected to the German Musical Theatre Company Stage Entertainment.
AUSTIN DIRECTS TWO PROJECTS FOR THE Nu MUSICAL THEATRE FESTIVAL
The Penn State New Musical Theatre Festival is an annual new works festival that allows up-and-coming composers, lyricists, and book writers to workshop their original musical theatre pieces at the Penn State University Park Campus.
Women: Front and Center
A look at the role of women in contemporary musical theatre.
Performances: July 8-11, 2015; 5 pm Downtown Theatre Centre
*In association with Central PA Festival for the Arts
Something Wicked This Way Comes
Based on the novel by Ray Bradbury
Music and Lyrics by Neil Bartram
Book by Brian Hill
For those who still dream and remember, for those yet to experience its hypnotic power, step inside. The show is about to begin. Cooger & Dark's Pandemonium Shadow Show has come to Green Town, Illinois, to destroy every life touched by its strange and sinister mystery. And two boys will discover the secret of its smoke, mazes, and mirrors; two friends who will soon know all too well the heavy cost of wishes. . .and the stuff of nightmare. This world premiere musical comes to us from the writing team ofTHE STORY OF MY LIFE and THE THEORY OF RELATIVITY.
Performances: July 6-7 and 8-11*, 2015 8 pm Downtown Theatre Centre
*In association with Central PA Festival for the Arts
Women: Front and Center
A look at the role of women in contemporary musical theatre.
Performances: July 8-11, 2015; 5 pm Downtown Theatre Centre
*In association with Central PA Festival for the Arts
Something Wicked This Way Comes
Based on the novel by Ray Bradbury
Music and Lyrics by Neil Bartram
Book by Brian Hill
For those who still dream and remember, for those yet to experience its hypnotic power, step inside. The show is about to begin. Cooger & Dark's Pandemonium Shadow Show has come to Green Town, Illinois, to destroy every life touched by its strange and sinister mystery. And two boys will discover the secret of its smoke, mazes, and mirrors; two friends who will soon know all too well the heavy cost of wishes. . .and the stuff of nightmare. This world premiere musical comes to us from the writing team ofTHE STORY OF MY LIFE and THE THEORY OF RELATIVITY.
Performances: July 6-7 and 8-11*, 2015 8 pm Downtown Theatre Centre
*In association with Central PA Festival for the Arts
Austin Returns to MTB as head of Musical Theatre
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Austin is excited to take on the title of Head of Musical Theatre for Musiktheater Bavaria. This will be his 5th summer teaching for MTB in Oberaudorf, Germany.
He is also excited to travel up to teach for the prestigious Joop van den Ende Academy in Hamburg, Germany this August . |
Austin Choreographs the Musical Dogfight at Penn State
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Click here to see a promo video Dogfight, a musical based on a 1991 film of the same name, tells a tender and brutal tale of young people meeting in a situation certain to end in heartbreak. Following three young Marines on the eve of their deployment to Vietnam in 1963, the show focuses on Corporal Eddie Birdlace and Rose, an ungainly but hopeful waitress he recruits in a callous competition with his buddies. But Rose changes the way the game is played in an unexpected story of innocence, compassion, and new love. Show Dates: Wednesday, April 1, 2015 to Saturday, April 11, 2015 Click here to purchase tickets |
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HEADLINERS IN Ohio AND detroit
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Austin is working for Headliners as a Dance Competition Judge in Ohio the weekend of Friday February 27th-March 1st 2015, and again April 17th-19th 2015 in Detroit, MI.
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Fall '14 PSU Dance Concert
Penn state
In August 2014, Austin joined Penn State University as an Assistant Professor in the School of Theatre.
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music theater bavaria 2014Austin will return for a 5th summer to teach in Oberaudorf, Germany for Music Theater Bavaria.
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The Passing show
Austin is happy to choreographing for Unsung Musicals new musical titled The Passing Show . Click here for more info.
Cap21 mainstage
Austin is currently Choreographing On the Town for the CAP21 Mainstage.
The production will run from May 6-May 10. Click here for more information
The production will run from May 6-May 10. Click here for more information
Headliners in Clifton, nj and Providence, RI
Austin is joining Headliners as a Dance Competition Judge in Clifton, NJ the weekend of Friday February 14th 2014, and again in from April 24th-27th 2014 in Providence, RI.
Bro-Do Dance
An exciting new program called Broadway Donation, which began last fall, starts back with their open classes on Monday January 13th 2014. The brainchild of performer/teachers J. Austin Eyer and Mike Kirsch, Broadway Donation (or Bro-Do for short) provides musical theatre artists, of any financial background, the continued training that is required of them to succeed in this very demanding, competitive and expensive career. All classes are Donation based ($10 suggested) and feature a rotating roster of the most exciting Teachers and Choreographers from the Broadway Community. Classes are Monday-Friday and feature consistent class times and locations. They currently offer classes in Theatre Dance (two advanced classes and one geared toward Singer/Movers), Tap and a weekly workout class. Voice, Acting and Casting Seminars will be added later this year. This year’s teachers include Andy Blankenbuehler, Christopher Gattelli, JoAnn Hunter, Richard Stafford, Christopher Bailey, Kelli Barclay, Nick Kenkel, Sarah O’Gleby, Richard Hinds, Al Blackstone, Lisa Gajda and Dan Knechtges...just to name a few. For more information on their amazing teachers or for more detailed class information visit www.BroadwayDonation.com. FYI...they announce their teachers for each week every Friday via their mailing list and social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. So, If you’re looking for an affordable place to continue your training and stay in shape take a class in a judgement free atmosphere with your peers at Broadway Donation.
The song and dance project
In September 2013 Austin directed the Song and Dance Project for CAP21 click here for more info.
Section A
Director: Austin Eyer
Musical Director: Joshua Zecher-Ross
Featuring these Song and Dance Numbers….
“Blue skies” from White Christmas
“Aggie stomp” from Whorehouse
“Forget about the boy” from Millie
“I gotcha” from Fosse / Liza with a Z
“Tough act to follow” from Curtains
“Drive a Person Crazy” from Company
“Who's got pain” from Damn Yankees
“Money makes the world” from Cabaret
“Mein Herr” from Cabaret
“Tom, Dick or Harry” from Kiss me Kate
“Too darn hot” from Kiss me Kate
Section A
Director: Austin Eyer
Musical Director: Joshua Zecher-Ross
Featuring these Song and Dance Numbers….
“Blue skies” from White Christmas
“Aggie stomp” from Whorehouse
“Forget about the boy” from Millie
“I gotcha” from Fosse / Liza with a Z
“Tough act to follow” from Curtains
“Drive a Person Crazy” from Company
“Who's got pain” from Damn Yankees
“Money makes the world” from Cabaret
“Mein Herr” from Cabaret
“Tom, Dick or Harry” from Kiss me Kate
“Too darn hot” from Kiss me Kate
See Austin's number from BC Beat 2013
Austin Teaches in the finger lakes
Austin will be teaching a 2 week summer course in Cayuga, NY from August 5 - August 17 2013. This high school intensive summer program is offered by Merry-go-round Playhouse and CAP21.
Q & A for broadway blogspot
Check out an interview Austin did for Broadway Blogspot where he talks about landing his first Broadway show and shares some advice on staying up on your training. Click Here
Come take a dance class from Austin
With the help of colleague Mike Kirsch, Austin is starting a very exciting company this fall...Broadway Donation Dance. Where professional dancers can take donation based dance classes for a suggested donation of just $10. Click here for more info and stay Tuned for more details.
Summer in Germany 2013
Austin will once again be teaching Acting and Movement for Music Theater Bavaria in Oberaudorf, Germany. This will be his 4th summer with Music Theater Bavaria!!!
Gershwin Awards
Austin is excited to choreograph again for the 3rd annual Gershwin Awards on May 18th
Austin Choreographs for BC Beat
BC Beat is a choreographer's showcase here in New York City, and Austin is thrilled to be presenting a piece for BC Beat this May 6th, 2013 at 7pm.
For more info or to purchase an $8 ticket visit www.bcbeat.net
For more info or to purchase an $8 ticket visit www.bcbeat.net
Urinetown
Austin is choreographing the CAP21 Spring Mainstage production of Urinetown, running May 8-11 2013.
For more info visit: http://www.cap21.org/cap21/conservatory/events/
For more info visit: http://www.cap21.org/cap21/conservatory/events/
Check out Unique New York
I do freelance and creative consulting for the amazing production company, Unique New York Productions, check them out!!!
Songs you Should Know 2013
Come see Austin perform in "Songs you Should Know" to benefit the Libra Theater Company.
Monday, February 11, 2013
9:30pm at The Laurie Beechman Theatre
(407 West 42nd Street)
For more info click here
Monday, February 11, 2013
9:30pm at The Laurie Beechman Theatre
(407 West 42nd Street)
For more info click here
Austin does a Q&A for an Internet Blog
Click here to read an interview Austin did for The Write Teachers.
Evita Closed January 26, 2013
Austin had such a great time with the amazing cast of Evita!
Gypsy of the Year
Catch Austin in a special tribute to Fred Ebb, as the cast of Curtains reunites to sing "Show People" for Gypsy of the Year.
My Big Gay Italian Wedding Returns
Austin's choreography will once again be featured Off Broadway in My Big Gay Italian Wedding. Limited Run begins November 3, 2012!
For more info visit http://www.biggayitalianwedding.com/
For more info visit http://www.biggayitalianwedding.com/
Evita on Broadway
Austin is proud to announce that he will be joining the Ensemble of Evita starting September 24th, 2012.
CAP21's Summer Industry Practicum 2012
Austin's choreographed CAP21's Summer Industry Practicum that will showcase for Agents and Casting Directors this week. This is Austin's 9th showcase for CAP!!!
Public performances
Saturday September 8 at 7pm
Sunday September 9 at 3 and 7pm
Tuesday September 11 at 7pm
Industry Performances
Wednesday September 12 at 3 and 7pm
Public performances
Saturday September 8 at 7pm
Sunday September 9 at 3 and 7pm
Tuesday September 11 at 7pm
Industry Performances
Wednesday September 12 at 3 and 7pm
Broadway Under the Stars 2012 in Jack London State Park
Austin will be performing and choreographing for a concert series brought to you by the Transcendence Theatre Company in Sonoma, CA at the end of August.
What a Wonderful World
August 16, 17 & 18 (Thurs, Fri & Sat)
August 24, 25 & 26 (Fri, Sat & Sun)
5:00pm Pre-Show Picnicking Begins
8:00pm Concert in the Winery Ruins
Experience a magical night of Broadway performances with breathtaking music from MY FAIR LADY, WEST SIDE STORY, SOUTH PACIFIC, LES MISERABLES and popular songs from the Great American Songbook.
For more info check out Transcendence Theatre Company
What a Wonderful World
August 16, 17 & 18 (Thurs, Fri & Sat)
August 24, 25 & 26 (Fri, Sat & Sun)
5:00pm Pre-Show Picnicking Begins
8:00pm Concert in the Winery Ruins
Experience a magical night of Broadway performances with breathtaking music from MY FAIR LADY, WEST SIDE STORY, SOUTH PACIFIC, LES MISERABLES and popular songs from the Great American Songbook.
For more info check out Transcendence Theatre Company
Summer in Germany 2012
Austin will be spending most of the summer in Germany. He is so excited to be teaching Acting and Movement again for Music Theater Bavaria (it's been 10 years)!!!
H2S Closing
Sadly, H2S Closed on May 20th, 2012.
BC Beat 2012
Quick Tips
Click here to watch Austin give some "quick tips" for CAP21
CAP21
Come Austin's latest choreographic project:
Children of Eden at CAP21
Playing May 2 - May 5 2012
To purchase Tickets Visit CAP21
Children of Eden at CAP21
Playing May 2 - May 5 2012
To purchase Tickets Visit CAP21
StinkyKids
Austin's Latest Choreography project won the Off Broadway Alliance Award for Best New Family Musical!
StinkyKids the Musical at the Vital Theatre Company
StinkyKids has been extended till May 26th 2012!!!!
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Earlier this year he performed in the concert "Songs you Should Know" to benefit the Libra Theatre Company Happy 2012!!! Austin is settling in at How to Succeed where they are welcoming new stars Beau Bridges, Nick Jonas and Michael Urie. He is still teaching for CAP21 in their 2 year professional program. |