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Dr. LaMar Bagley: A Beacon of Musical Theatre Education
In an inspiring announcement made on June 24 at the Theatre Education Conference during the International Thespian Festival in Bloomington, Indiana, Dr. LaMar Bagley from Washington D.C.'s SEED Falcon Theatre has been recognized as the 2025 Stephen Schwartz Musical Theatre Teacher of the Year. This prestigious honor not only comes with a cash prize of $5,000 from The ASCAP Foundation and the Educational Theatre Association but also highlights Dr. Bagley’s remarkable contributions to theatre education over his 20-year tenure at the SEED School.
Cultivating Creativity and Community
Dr. Bagley's approach to teaching musical theatre centers around fostering creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking among his students. Under his leadership, the SEED Falcon Theatre has produced popular shows like The Lion King JR. and Moana JR., the latter awarded the prestigious Disney on Broadway School of Excellence designation. His dedication to inclusivity is evident as he encourages all students to audition, ensuring that each one receives the personalized instruction they require to flourish.
Recognition and Impact
In addition to this recent accolade, Dr. Bagley has received multiple recognitions for his outstanding work. He was honored at the White House by President Biden and First Lady Dr. Biden in 2023 and was named a Trailblazer by the DC Arts and Humanities Education Collaborative. Nicole George-Middleton, Executive Director of the ASCAP Foundation, described him as a “true champion of the arts,” whose impact extends well beyond the stage, shaping the future of musical theater by mentoring young creators.
Educational Leadership and Artistic Excellence
EdTA Executive Director Dr. Jennifer Katona emphasized that Dr. Bagley's unwavering commitment to student success and artistic excellence is what truly exemplifies the spirit of the Stephen Schwartz award. His dedication is not just about teaching the craft of musical theatre, but nurturing confidence, creativity, and connection among his students.
As we celebrate Dr. LaMar Bagley’s contributions to the world of musical theatre, it’s clear that his efforts are vital in shaping future generations of artists. His recognition is a testament to the significant difference a passionate educator can make in the lives of young talents, ensuring that the arts continue to thrive in our communities.
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