OTT creating path for youth to pursue musical arts careers

OTT is harnessing the talents of young persons and creating opportunities. This was the assessment given by Janelle Headley, the brain behind Operation Triple Threat (OTT), whose passion for the creative arts spearheaded her to create this avenue to prepare young persons for a career in the musical arts.

The Barbados Advocate spoke to Headley recently as the team were already into another performance entitled “Madagascar” which ran from June 30, through to July 2 at St Winifred’s School.

Headley recounted, “Operation Triple Threat is a holistic performing arts programme for students between seven & 21 years. The original idea for the programme was inspired by the need for training for youths to become, what the entertainment industry calls, a ‘triple threat’ – someone skilled in each of the three disciplines of singing, dancing and acting. Each student must earn his or her place through a rigorous audition and interview process and once enrolled, goes through weekly intensive training to hone their talent. OTT’s vision is to develop performing artists who excel and compete at an international level.

In April 2016 OTT reached the five year mark and we were very proud to have successfully mounted the exquisite and challenging musical “Into The Woods” at Frank Collymore Hall. In June that year we also produced “Seussical Jr.” as well as “Broadway!” Each show was met with great praise from audiences who were impressed by the incredible talent of the cast of students, as well as the high quality of production. For OTT’s 2017 April show we produced the Caribbean infused “Once On This Island”, which also gained great reviews, now “Madagascar – A Musical Adventure Jr.”

She reminded Barbadians, “Although we are known for producing Musical Theatre, OTT is first and foremost a Charity dedicated to helping young artistes be the best they can be. In just a few years, through our Bridge Award Programme, we have enabled approximately 50 students to either attend our local programme at no cost, attend international Musical Theatre training workshops, as well as audition or attend international Performing Arts institutions. During this academic year we financially assisted four OTT alums to attend various colleges or universities in the USA and we also hosted a special workshop in May with Broadway performer Tanya Birl and her husband, Broadway percussionist, Wilson Torres. These opportunities were all made possible with the help of our strategic partner The Maria Holder Memorial Trust, along with private donors who see the value in investing in the development of our young performers.”

The Founder also highlighted some of the achievements, “Four students enrolled at the American Musical & Dramatic Academy , one student enrolled in the American Academy of Dramatic Arts ,one student enrolled in The University of Arizona , two students graduated from the American Musical & Dramatic Academy, one student performed in ‘Play House on the Parks’ Off-Broadway production of ‘Little Shop of Horrors.’ OTT’s performance standard is as high as any in the world for an amateur group, youth or adult... ”

Headley urged Barbadians to support the creative arts and to support the dream of many young people. She stressed that this not a hobby that it is a viable niche that is recognised throughout the world and can be a thriving industry in Barbados with proper support. (NB)