The Broadway Sitzprobe Experience

Where Young Voices Meet the Orchestra

Although Broadway theaters traditionally go dark on Mondays, the lights on West 55th Street shone brilliantly on February 9th. Surrounded by Broadway stars, professional musicians, proud families, and five extraordinary high school students, Carroll Rehearsal Studios came alive for Arts Ignite’s latest Broadway Sitzprobe Experience.

In partnership with Arts Ignite, the New York City Department of Education, and the Herman, Rebecca, and Gerald Ginsburg Foundation, this unforgettable evening celebrated the power of music education at the highest level. Students from across New York City were nominated for the rare opportunity to sing with a live orchestra and receive mentorship from legendary music director Mary-Mitchell Campbell.

Five remarkable students were selected from three boroughs and District 75, representing P811Q – The Marathon School, Theatre Arts Production Company School (TAPCO), and Renaissance High School for Musical Theater & the Arts (Bronx).

They were joined onstage by Broadway veterans Tamar Greene (Hamilton), Andrea Jones-Sojola (Porgy & Bess), Becca Petersen (Back to the Future), and John Riddle (The Phantom of the Opera). Together, they recreated a true sitzprobe—a pivotal rehearsal moment when singers and orchestra come together for the very first time.

The evening featured soaring selections from the late Gerald Ginsburg’s repertoire, arranged for a powerful 17-piece orchestra whose sound filled the room. Gonzalo Valencia served as Music Director and provided additional orchestrations, with Mary-Mitchell Campbell as Music Supervisor. Audience members and performers alike remarked on the rare magic of hearing voices lifted by a full live orchestra.

In addition to their Ginsburg selections, students also performed their original nomination songs, offering a moving before-and-after glimpse of how their musicality, confidence, and versatility had expanded through program participation. The night also included beloved Broadway favorites from Dear Evan Hansen, The Wiz, Hamilton, She Loves Me, and Wicked.

Beyond the performance itself, students received professional headshots, private vocal coaching, musical mentoring, and the opportunity to attend a Broadway show in New York City—an immersive, career-shaping experience designed to meet young artists where they are and propel them forward.

Hosted by Broadway’s Marty Thomas, the evening included heartfelt conversations with the students, who reflected on their growth, their artistic goals, and the joy of learning alongside professionals they admire. Families and friends beamed as the students sang their hearts out. The night concluded with a powerful, collective performance of Gerald Ginsburg’s setting of Langston Hughes’ “I Dream a World”—a fitting and moving finale.

“Partnering with Arts Ignite was a meaningful and rewarding experience. Their ability to steward resources with intention while creating deeply transformative experiences for students, volunteers, and sponsors sets them apart. We look forward to continuing this partnership for years to come.” – Paul Lincoln, The Herman, Rebecca, and Gerald Ginsburg Foundation

“I learned to not be as shy as I usually am. I learned to just be yourself when you come to something new, because you never know what could happen!”– Elijah

“I’ve learned patience, and to hold myself with more grace. Especially when it comes to singing or acting in general. Everyone has been so patient, so I’ve learned to be kinder to myself.”– Francesca

“Magic. It’s so beautiful to see how our favorite shows come to life backstage.”– Caitlin

This program was made possible through the dedication of our partners, educators, and supporters. We extend our deepest thanks to Rebecca Stavis, David Taubman, and Michael Pantone for championing their students, as well as to Peter Avery, Director of Theater for the New York City Department of Education, and the Herman, Rebecca, and Gerald Ginsburg Foundation for their continued partnership and belief in young artists.

Photo credit: Shawn Salley