Spotlight
Lauren Brown has graced the SSPA stage in numerous productions, including Mamma Mia, Descendants, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Alice By Heart, Footloose, and Hadestown! In addition to her impressive stage presence, Lauren is an active SSPA Youth Advisory Council member.
After a rigorous audition, Lauren was accepted into New York City’s premier Broadway actor training program—the Open Jar Institute. This prestigious program offers select students intensive, one-on-one training with some of Broadway’s biggest stars, including performers, directors, choreographers, agents, and casting directors.
Lauren was also accepted into the CCM Preparatory Program, which provides top-tier training for dedicated high school students passionate about musical theatre. With a curriculum led by conservatory faculty and industry professionals, the program offers high-level instruction in voice, dance, and acting, ensuring students receive comprehensive pre-professional training.
Under the direction of a Tony-winning Board of Directors—including Joanna Gleason (Into The Woods), Susan Stroman (The Producers), Lynn Ahrens & Stephen Flaherty (Ragtime), Judine Somerville (Hairspray), and Artistic Director Jeff Whiting—the Open Jar Institute provides two distinct opportunities:
✨ An 8-week Residency Program for students transitioning to New York City
✨ A Summer Institute for high school and college students
Since its founding in 2003, the Open Jar Institute has challenged and prepared young performers for successful careers in entertainment. Lauren extends her gratitude to SSPA’s Executive Artistic Director, Gary Ferguson, for his invaluable guidance in helping her craft a standout audition package.
We are so proud of you, Lauren! Break a leg in NYC! 🎭✨
My teaching philosophy is simple.
You do not have to be able to dance to be a dancer. It should be something that is available to anyone that has a passion to move. My goal is to take those that are not dancers and give them passion for the art form; to take those that are already accomplished dancers and elevate the culture of dance so that it does not become just about steps and choreography but more about the feeling and emotion of what they are doing. In order to be successful I have to be able to engage and communicate with people – dancers and non-dancers. Dancing should be available to anyone that wants to move. Music is considered the universal language and if that is the case, dancing is a major component or tool to assist in making it so.
Gary Ferguson
Gary’s Story:
My journey began as a student on scholarship, with the Alvin Ailey and Gus Giordano Dance Companies. It was here that my passion for dance, music, theatre, and movement evolved. That passion has continued to grow and burn inside of me. I want to bring this eagerness and dedication to the Bay Area. As my career has been rooted in musical theater and dance, I am no stranger to other areas of live performance.
“ Gary's humor and straightforwardness make working with him a joyful, challenging and transformational experience for his students, friends and his colleagues. He's a whirlwind of talent and an astounding asset in any team”.
—Amber S.