This summer, Westmoreland Cultural Trust proudly launched The Academy, a bold new education initiative designed to provide transformative performing arts training in a supportive, wellness-focused environment. At the heart of our first program is the Broadway to the Palace Artist Retreat, led by an extraordinary team of Shenandoah University alumni. We’re thrilled to highlight the Shenandoah graduates who are shaping this inaugural retreat:

• Jessie Hooker Bailey (B.F.A. Musical Theatre), lead instructor and Broadway veteran of Waitress, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, and The Color Purple
• Jake Emmerling (B.F.A. Musical Theatre), long-time cast member with The Book of Mormon company and recent M.F.A. graduate, teaching a Musical Theatre Jazz Masterclass as part of the retreat
• Benjamin Luczak (B.F.A. Musical Theatre ’09, M.S. PALM ’15), CEO of Westmoreland Cultural Trust
• Nick Lenz (B.F.A. Musical Theatre ’17), Founding Director of The Academy and Education & Engagement Manager for Westmoreland Cultural Trust
• Alex Boyd (B.F.A. Musical Theatre ’18), Director of Operations at Thomas Global Media and Production Designer for the Broadway to the Palace Showcase

To celebrate this milestone and the strong Shenandoah presence behind it, we invite you to a special SU Alumni Mixer held on the historic stage of The Palace Theatre in Greensburg, PA. Enjoy an evening of reconnection, inspiration, and community alongside fellow alumni, faculty, and friends. The evening includes:

🎶 Live music, karaoke, and dancing
🍽️ Buffet dinner and open bar
🎭 Guided venue tours
🤝 Networking with fellow alumni, arts leaders, and Broadway professionals

Stay for the culminating Broadway to The Palace showcase on Saturday, August 9th 2025, where retreat participants will perform alongside Jessie and other members of our Broadway faculty. Tickets are $25 if you attend the Mixer and you can arrange lodging at a special rate if necessary.

Alumni, please RSVP by July 25, 2025.

We can’t wait to welcome you to The Palace!

Click here to learn more about The Academy and Broadway to The Palace!