The Bushnell Performing Arts Scholars is launching this fall!
We need artists to join our creative team. Learn more.
The Bushnell Center for Performing Arts is proud to announce the cast for its first-ever youth theater program, a newly launched initiative under their talent development division, The Bushnell Performing Arts Scholars (BPAS). BPAS will combine a dynamic series of masterclasses and immersive creative learning workshops designed to develop participants’ skills in performance, music, and stagecraft. This artistic journey will culminate in a fully staged live theatrical production of Roald Dahl’s Matilda Jr., The Musical, next Spring.
The response to the auditions call was overwhelming, bringing together more than 100 talented young performers from across Connecticut and Massachusetts. Ultimately 41 spirited and skilled students were selected to comprise the very first class of Performing Arts Scholars and charged with the task of bringing this magical tale to life. The exceptional depth of talent presented made the deliberation process joyfully challenging, leading The Bushnell’s Education Department to double-cast the production.
Our casting panel consisted of talented professors, professionals, and educators from performing arts institutions in the state including The Hartt School of Music, The Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts, and The University of Connecticut. We thank Benjamin Stayner, Kevin Ramsey, Kristin Huffman, and Stacie Beard for lending their experience and expertise to our panel.
Matilda Jr., based on the beloved book by Roald Dahl, is a gleefully witty ode to the power of imagination. With high-energy dance numbers, catchy songs, and unforgettable characters, the production is the perfect showcase for emerging young performers. This debut marks the beginning of a now annual program offered by way of The Bushnell’s Education Department, highlighting the creativity, talent, and potential of the region’s next generation of performing artists.
PERFORMANCE DATES:
March 28 and 29th, 2026
The Belding Theater at The Bushnell Center for Performing Arts
Tickets on sale soon at Shows & Concerts | The Bushnell | The Bushnell
SEE FULL CAST LIST BELOW:
MATILDA WORMWOOD – Sophia Parente and Quinn Blake
MISS HONEY – Cameron Miller and Julia Schrieber
TRUNCHBULL – Oliver Robb and Quinn Carson
MR. WORMWOOD – Parker Nelson and Tate Nold
MRS. WORMWOOD – Avery McMahon and Rayna Lucas
MICHAEL WORMWOOD – Ethan Gross and Jonah Robb
LAVENDER –Gabriella Jorgensen and Sophia Strumolo
BRUCE – Leo Storiale and Max Sinatro
AMANDA – Ellie Tuohey and Maura Lefchak
ERIC(A) – Gianna Ruggiero and Silas Caporuscio
ALICE – Nailah Asare and Vega Ludovici
HORTENSIA –Rachel Jerusik and Serena Hoffman
NIGEL – Liam Perry and Samuel Greer
TAMMY – Cecilia Cancel and Olivia Silva
MRS. PHELPS – Lila Redfield and Lila Straybrat
RUDOLPHA – Alina Tringali and Nia Williams
THE ESCAPOLOGIST – Juliet Beaupre and Lucy Ouimet
THE ACROBAT – Maren Cugell and Maya Johns
SERGEI– Dalton Schroeder and Emma Gasparini
COOK- Colette Morse and Maven Eure
MECHANIC – Teddy Constantine
This production marks a new chapter in the Bushnell’s continued commitment to cultivating young talent and expanding access to quality theatre education and performance opportunities.
Program participation is limited and can be attained only by way of audition assessment and subsequent invitation/placement.
The following guidelines will apply to all program candidates and participants:
► Program tuition is $600 for the full course, October 2025 - March 2026. A $150 participation fee deposit is required on or before September 30, 2025. (Remaining payment due dates are November 30, 2025, January 30, 2025 and March 1, 2025 - $150 each.)
► Masterclasses and Instructional Workshops will take place on Thursdays from 5:30-7:30pm – 10/9/25 - 11/20/25.
► Rehearsals will take place on Tuesdays & Wednesdays from 5:30-7:30pm and Sundays from 11:30-2:30.
1/6/26 - 3/22/26.
► All tech week rehearsals are mandatory and will take place Tuesday 3/24/26 - Friday 3/27/26 from 5:30-8pm.
Performances will take place on Saturday and Sunday, March 28th, 2026 and March 29th, 2026 at the Bushnell.
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Recruitment
Artistic Team Member Recruitment
We are currently seeking highly skilled, dedicated, and experienced Artists to join the Artistic Team for our upcoming youth theatre programming. This exciting opportunity involves working with young performers ranging in age from 7 to 14 years, helping to guide and develop their talents in a creative and supportive environment.
As part of our program, students will participate in auditions and be thoughtfully assessed for casting in a Broadway Junior production. We are looking for teaching artists who not only bring a high level of professional experience in theater, music, or dance but also have a passion for arts education and a deep commitment to nurturing young talent.
Ideal candidates will demonstrate a strong ability to inspire and engage students of varying skill levels, foster ensemble-building, and contribute to the creation of a positive and inclusive artistic community. Additionally, a willingness to adhere to the guidelines and policies outlined by The Education Department at The Bushnell is chiefly required.
Application Requirements:
► A resume and 3 references (name, email, and phone number) are required to complete this application.
► If you are selected for an interview, please come prepared to share a sample of your work in your specialty area. Examples include: choreography reel, video recordings of past directing/music directing performances, etc.
Please note: In order to be considered for this project, you must be available for the following dates and times:
► Thursdays 5:30-7:30 PM - 10/9/2025 - 11/20/2025 - Masterclasses and Instructional Workshops for the cast.
► Tuesdays/Wednesdays 5:30-7:30 PM - 1/6/2026 -3/22/2026 - Production Rehearsals
► Sundays 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM - 1/6/2026 - 3/22/2026 - Production Rehearsals
► 3/24/2026 - 3/27/2026 - 5:30-8:30 PM - Tech Rehearsals (MANDATORY)
► 3/28/2026 - 3/29/2026 - Performances at The Bushnell (MANDATORY)
Should you be selected as a finalist after your interview... a background check will be required.
More information will be sent via email once your application is completed, received, and selected.
Education@bushnell.org