By KERI SMITH
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 10/02/07
After 26 nomadic years, the Atlanta Workshop Players have a place to call home. Their new space, deemed the Studio of the Arts, is on Holcomb Bridge Road in Alpharetta.
The doors formally opened this weekend with a celebration Saturday.
The nonprofit theater group worked out of a studio in Clarkston about 20 years ago but expanded so fast it only stayed for a few years. Since then, the group has worked from a variety of temporary locations.
"We've rehearsed and performed everywhere over the years," said Lynn Stallings, the group's founder and artistic director. "It just feels great to have some stability now."
The new space, tucked into the Rivermont Square Shopping Center, includes a vocal coaching room, a dance and rehearsal hall with spring-loaded floors, and a television studio with stadium seating that will be used for commercial and acting classes, as well as being available for rent to visiting casting directors.
Taylor Cunningham, 13, of Alpharetta, a member of the AWP touring company, is excited about the changes.
"All the new equipment really gives us something to look forward to," Taylor said. "I think I want to do the film class — it just looks so cool."
The theater school has classes for all levels, including professional training programs called "Hollywood Bound" and "Broadway Bound" for children and adults. Also offered are "Improv-Mania," a comedy course; theater production classes; and "Essentials," an on-screen crash course on the skills necessary for a successful career in television and film.
Stallings, who wears many hats as a director, producer, casting consultant, published writer, talent manager and performer, launched AWP with two main goals. The first was to launch careers in the entertainment industry.
Many AWP alumni have moved on to professional careers, such as Christine Lakin from the sitcom "Step by Step"; Chris Lowell, who landed a role on "Private Practice," the new "Grey's Anatomy" spin-off; and Justin Martin, who starred as Simba in the Broadway production of "The Lion King."
Stallings' other goal was to use entertainment to teach character and provide educational messages. She tries to incorporate real-life themes throughout AWP productions. The group performs original musicals such as "Beneath the Surface," currently running, which covers such social issues as drugs, teen pregnancy and bullying.
Members of the touring company say they learn a lot by being part of AWP, onstage and off.
"AWP has really opened my eyes," said Jordan Ferrell, 16, a two-year member of the touring company. "When I'm here, I know that I can act silly and be myself and not worry about being cool."
Damien Haas of Peachtree City feels the same way. He has been a part of AWP for six years. He left high school recently to be home schooled and credits AWP for making the transition easier.
"I left my friends at high school, but it's fine because I have friends who are like family here who really accept me — and we are always having fun," said Damien, 16.
Stallings said that the harmonious atmosphere at AWP will only get better: "We've always been a family, and now we have a home."