'Theater is common ground': Port Huron resident starts performing arts training center
PORT HURON — The stage has been set for an upcoming performing arts training center.
Debra McNair has been involved with theater since 1987 and decided she wanted to use her decades of experience to create a performing arts training center, called New Beginnings Theatre, where she can foster talent and diversify the theater community in Port Huron.
“Theater is common ground that can bring people together,” McNair said. “We are going to work to build the diversity that needs to happen here.”
The theater, located inside Enter Stage Right at the Citadel, 609 Huron Ave., will provide 16 different classes, including acting techniques, dance and improvisions. The classes will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. Mondays, and from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Classes will be offered for eight weeks starting April 3.
McNair's students will perform short, one-act plays at the end of the eight-week classes. The shows and dates are yet to be determined.
People can still register for the classes after they have started. Registration is $150 until April 10. People who wish to register can call McNair at 810-858-1420.
New Beginnings Theatre will focus on positive and faith-based messages, according to McNair. She said the positive messages will define many aspects of Christianity.
Enter Stage Right Executive Director Regina Spain said having more performing arts in the community is always an incredible thing to achieve.
“Debra and I have talked a lot about making sure our arts represent the community and diversity of Port Huron,” Spain said. “I think this will be a great step in that direction.”
Kanchan Wankhede is the owner of the Underground, a business incubator that seeks to assist startups and entrepreneurs. She said McNair came to her for business coaching and she thought New Beginnings Theatre sounded like a cool concept.
“The concept is diverse and elaborate,” Wankhede said. “It gives space for all needs of artists, including different ages and cultures.”
Wankhede said McNair has a positive energy that, alongside her passion for theater, puts her in a strong position to start New Beginnings Theatre.
Contact McKenna Golat at mgolat@gannett.com or 810-292-0122.
This article originally appeared on Port Huron Times Herald: New Beginnings Theatre to offer performances, classes
