Sands College of Performing Arts at Pace University

01/07/2025

BFA Acting alumna Sadithi De Zilva is making an impact in the film industry! In a recent "Bold Journey" feature, Sadithi reflects on founding Scrappack Productions and the power of community and collaboration. Discover her inspiring journey:

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sadithi De zilva.

01/03/2025

Experience the extraordinary talent of our BFA Commercial Dance students in this stunning new concept video, choreographed and produced by Adjunct Professor Rachel Leigh Dolan.

Originally featured in the 2024 "Dance Out Loud" production, “Calamity” brings this performance to life with breathtaking storytelling, movement, and artistry.

https://brnw.ch/21wPMyA
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Directed by: Pierre Marais
Choreography and Concept by: Rachel Leigh Dolan
Produced by: Rachel Leigh Dolan

Voice of Jane: Jessica DiGiovanni

Jane: Emma McWilliams
Bill: Tristan Ianiero

Jake Craig
Thomas Henderson
Jonah Ledvina
Megan McAdoo
Samantha O’Connor
James Duncan Oldham
Jonathan Paula
Gabrielle Rembert
Kiyah Rush
Sithumini Sinley
Isabella Tagle
Mael Tima

Director of Photography/Editor: Pierre Marais
Wardrobe Design: Rachel Leigh Dolan
Assistant Choreographer and Director: Courtney Darlington

“The Chain” written by Stevie Nicks, Lindsey Buckingham, Christine McVie, John McVie, and Mick Fleetwood; performed by Fleetwood Mac
Remix by SOUNDMODA
Voiceover excerpts taken from “Songs from Letters” by Libby Larson
Based on letters written by Calamity Jane to her daughter Janey.

Production Assistants:
Miyah Henderson
Lucy Johnson
Gabe Fatchet
Isabelle Harris

Filmed at The Hickories in Ridgefield, Connecticut
Original Stage Choreography Incubated at Pace University Sands School of the Performing Arts Commercial Dance Program

Experience the extraordinary talent of our BFA Commercial Dance students in this stunning new concept video, choreographed and produced by Adjunct Professor ...

12/23/2024

❄️Sands College of Performing Arts will be closed for winter break from December 23 - January 1 and will reopen on Thursday, January 2. ☃️

As you take this time to recharge and reflect, we hope your holiday season is filled with warmth, creativity, and inspiration. 🌟 May 2025 bring you new beginnings, togetherness, and a stage full of happy days! 🎭

From our Sands family to yours, happy holidays! 💗

12/20/2024

Congratulations to Musical Theater BFA student Ndaya Dream Hoskins on joining the original cast of "Smash."

Ndaya will debut at Broadway’s Imperial Theatre in March 2025 as an understudy for the role of Anita. The show is directed by five-time Tony Award winner Susan Stroman.

Earlier this year, Ndaya appeared in the national tour of "Mrs. Doubtfire the Musical." She is making waves in the theater world while still a student, and we couldn’t be prouder!

"Words truly can’t even begin to express how extremely grateful I am," she shared, thanking her family and friends.

Learn more about her journey in this Cincinnati Enquirer article:

A Cincinnati School for Creative and Performing Arts alum is joining the cast of a 2025 Broadway musical.

12/19/2024

🎬 Lights, Camera, Collaboration! 🎭

We're thrilled to spotlight "Benders," an exciting new feature film developed by our incredibly talented alumni from IPE and Stage Management: Pierce Stephan, Sitara Nagrani, Kyle Moon, Maxwell Gorraiz, and Remy Yin!

Set during a freak blizzard, "Benders" tells the story of a youth hockey team trapped in a run-down ice rink. As tensions rise under the rule of their tyrannical coach, the players are pushed to their limits in a gripping, claustrophobic fight for survival.

This past November, the "Benders" team held their second live table reading—a true testament to the creative power of collaboration. The project unites students and alumni from across SIX Pace programs, with contributions spanning production, directing, and acting:

⭐Pierce Stephan (Directing, BA)
⭐Sitara Nagrani (Stage Management, BFA)
⭐Maxwell Gorraiz (Acting, BA)
⭐Kyle Moon (Directing, BA)
⭐Remy Yin (Acting, BA)
⭐Adam Bray (Acting for Film, Television, Voice-overs, and Commercials, BFA)
⭐Aidan Ledingham (Acting, BFA)
⭐Brayden Harlor (Acting for Film, Television, Voice-overs, and Commercials, BFA)
⭐Benjamin Paulk (Acting, BFA)
⭐Carl Robinett (Musical Theater, BFA)
⭐Sam Woo (Musical Theater, BFA)
⭐Eric Ducos (Film and Screen Studies, BA)
⭐Cece Goldenberg (Film and Screen Studies, BA)
⭐Jimmy O'Connor (Production and Design for Stage and Screen, BFA)

🎥 Want to get involved or learn more? Visit www.bendersmovie.com to watch the table reading and FOUR exclusive scenes from the film!

👏 Let’s celebrate the incredible work of our students and alumni!

12/17/2024

🎉 We love to see our alumni shine! BFA Acting alumna Rael Ba is making waves in the creative world and was featured in Canvas Rebel. With a mission “to provide a voice to the voiceless,” Rael’s creative path is as inspiring as it is impactful. From her artistic beginnings to her meaningful projects, her story is a testament to the power of purpose and passion.💡💪

Alright - so today we've got the honor of introducing you to Raèl Ba. We think you'll enjoy our conversation, we've shared it below.

12/17/2024

This holiday season, 19 Pace dancers—18 graduates and 1 current student—are shining in the Christmas Spectacular alongside the iconic Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall. 🎄

With training in precision jazz and a curriculum that sets them apart, our dancers are proving what it means to be : dedicated, ambitious, and unstoppable. ✨

👉Read the full story on how Pace talent is taking the spotlight in this issue of Dance Magazine:

When graduates of Pace University’s commercial dance BFA walk across the stage at graduation, they have a cap, gown, and amazing eye-high kicks. That’s because of their curriculum’s focus on multiple styles of jazz, including the precision jazz made famous by the Radio City Rockettes. There is...

12/16/2024

A celebration 35+ years in the making!

Last week, the Pace community—faculty, staff, students, and alumni—gathered to honor stage combat legend Mike Chin. ⚔️ From his start as a stagehand at the Schimmel Center to his remarkable mastery of the craft, Mike has been the ultimate mentor, friend, and inspiration to countless students throughout the years.

Join us in wishing him a well-deserved retirement filled with new adventures and joy!

Thank you, Mike, for everything you’ve given to Pace. 💙💛

12/06/2024

From Pace University to global stardom!! BFA Acting alum, Cooper Koch, has been named GQ’s 2024 International Actor of the Year!

Cooper's outstanding performance in Netflix's "Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story" has captivated audiences worldwide. At the GQ Men of the Year Awards in Sydney, Cooper expressed heartfelt gratitude. He reflected on overcoming challenges and the deep significance of this honor.

Join us in celebrating Cooper’s remarkable achievement and the dedication that led him here. 🎉

2024’s breakout heartthrob finishes off a blockbuster year with another win. Image credits: Eventive Photography

12/04/2024

Adjunct Professor Phillip Christian Smith welcomed acclaimed playwright Arlene Hutton to his Acting 3 class for a special visit that left a lasting impression. After experiencing "Blood of the Lamb"—a work that resonated deeply, Pace students took the stage to perform selected scenes off-book for Arlene. She provided insightful critiques, sharing her expertise and encouraging their growth. It was an inspiring reminder of the transformative power of theatre!

12/03/2024

This , join Pace University in empowering the next generation of artists. Every contribution, big or small, plays a vital role in shaping the future. Together, we aim to reach 2,257 donors—one for every new undergraduate joining Pace this fall.

💙💛Be part of OpporTUEnity in action and make your gift today. http://www.pace.edu/givingtuesday

11/19/2024

Get ready for an unforgettable performance! Dance sPace takes the stage December 6–8 at BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center.

Tickets are going fast! Don’t miss this spectacular showcase. https://tickets.tribecapac.org/dancespace

🎬Directed by: Scott Jovovich

💃Choreography: Tuan Malinowski (for NY Dance Lab), Boy Boi, Marinda Davis, Nathan Peck, Katie Walker, and 'Cloven Kingdom' Choreography by Paul Taylor (staged for this production by Laura Halzack)

💡Lighting Design: Berkeley Crosby, Grayson Dinino, Cayden Judd, David Shocket

👗Costume Design: Caton Hamrick, Matsy Stinson

🎭Production Stage Manager: Madison Moxey

11/14/2024

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Morgan Jenness, a cherished adjunct faculty member at the Sands College of Performing Arts.

For over a decade, Morgan inspired countless students with their expertise and passion for theater history. But they were so much more - a visionary, a mentor, and a generous spirit who impacted all who had the privilege of learning from or working alongside them.

Morgan's legacy and unwavering commitment to the performing arts will continue to shape and inspire the Sands community for generations to come. Read our full tribute:

The Sands College of Performing Arts community mourns the passing of Morgan Jenness, a cherished member of our adjunct faculty whose profound impact was deeply felt by students, faculty, staff, and the performing arts community.

11/14/2024

🎉 It’s showtime! 🎭 RENT is now playing at BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center, bringing NYC’s vibrant Lower East Side to life on stage. 🌆 Seats are still available, but they’re filling fast—don’t wait to get yours! 🎟️👉 https://brnw.ch/21wOD2F

11/09/2024

🎭 Pace students, don't miss this unique opportunity to join The Actor's Studio Drama School for "A Director's Conversation" with two of NYC's top theatre leaders, Scott Ellis (Roundabout Theatre Company) and Patricia McGregor (New York Theatre Workshop). Discover their journeys, creative visions, and insights on leadership within the NYC theatre scene. 🌟

Save the date: 📅 November 21, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at One Pace Plaza, Student Center. Prepare to be inspired! ✨

11/08/2024

1 severed hand, 2 gallons of blood, 75…you get the idea. 🎭

From Production and Design for Stage and Screen BFA alum to props supervisor mastermind behind "Teeth: The Musical," Matt Carlin brings the thrill of special effects to life on stage! Dive into the creative process—crafting hyper-realistic props, engineering intricate effects, and balancing shock with artistry—to see how bold visions transform into unforgettable moments. ✨

Check out the article on Playbill. https://brnw.ch/21wOuDI

📷 Source: Playbill

How the backstage team brings the gore every night at the Off-Broadway horror musical.

11/07/2024

Love, art, resilience—RENT has it all. Don’t miss this iconic rock musical at BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center, Nov 13-17. Tickets are on sale now with discounts for students. 🎭🎶

Grab yours today! https://tickets.tribecapac.org/rent

11/05/2024

We’re thrilled to close out the season of "In the Podlight" with a conversation on authentic casting! Casting Director Candido Cornejo Jr., CSA, and Pace alum Jesse James Keitel bring their experiences to the table, celebrating LGBTQIA+ representation and the impact of intentional casting.

Listen now for a moving discussion on representation and visibility. https://brnw.ch/21wOooK