An Encore of Excellence: Wiseburn Da Vinci Performing Arts Takes Center Stage
Wiseburn Da Vinci Performing Arts has had an extraordinary semester, and we couldn’t be prouder of our students’ achievements and artistic contributions! From breathtaking musicals to powerful vocal performances at community and athletic events, our students continue to raise the bar with their creativity and dedication.
Into the Woods – A Historic and Acclaimed Production
Da Vinci's recent production of Into the Woods was nothing short of spectacular. Across seven performances, the cast and crew earned seven standing ovations, highlighting the exceptional talent, teamwork, and commitment that made this show a truly unforgettable experience.
- Student Leadership Shines Behind and On Stage: This production showcased unprecedented student leadership. We celebrate Ariadna Escamilla (12th grade, Connect HS), who served as Assistant Director and is heading to Northwestern University with a full scholarship to study Theatre and Theatre Education. Aaron Peters (10th grade, Connect HS) made history as the first student to play in our professional pit band (Keyboard 2), while also serving as Assistant Musical Director.
- Student-Run Tech Crew: Our technical, design, and run crew was the largest yet, with almost every department fully student-run following support and onboarding from Technical Theatre Manager, Will Schneider. This included student leaders who designed and programmed the lighting and sound, managed costumes and makeup, and ran the stage:
- Stage Management: Lillian Winsinger (12th grade, Connect), Angel Anderson (11th grade, DVC), and Sam Busch (11th grade, DVC).
- Lighting Design/Programming: EJ Saintlouis (11th grade, DVC) and Koda Guidel (10th grade, DVC).
- Sound Design/Programming: Melody Palma (10th grade, DVS).
- Audio Mixing: Christopher Lopez (12th grade, DVD).
- Jerry Herman Award Nominees: A huge congratulations to Elizabeth Bowker (Baker's Wife) and Daniel Gutierrez (Baker), who have been nominated for the prestigious Jerry Herman Award for Best Actor and Best Actress! They await the final selections in April.
- Celebrating Our Seniors: We proudly celebrate the 15 graduating seniors who contributed their talents to this spectacular production.
- TK-8 Students Shine: A huge congrats to our TK-8 students who participated in Into the Woods. What a beautiful collaboration across all six Da Vinci schools!
Voices of Da Vinci: Representing Our Community
Our talented Voices of Da Vinci High School Choir students continue to elevate our schools' presence both on and off campus.
- Belkin Women’s History Month Event: At Belkin’s 2026 International Women’s Day panel, themed “Give to Gain,” Voices of Da Vinci high school singers Emma McCartney and A’dour Jordan delivered a powerful opening performance of Higher Love. Their inspiring performance set the tone for a meaningful conversation on community impact and highlighted the value of our long-standing partnership with Belkin.
- National Anthem Performances: Voices of Da Vinci students also proudly showcased their talent and professionalism at a variety of athletic events, including: Rayven Taylor – Girls Volleyball, 11/1; Mykell Jackson – CIF-SS Division 3 Girls Basketball Playoff, 2/12; and A’dour Jordan – ESports Tournament, 3/24.
TK–8 Students Thriving in the Arts
Our younger students are deeply engaged, growing, and thriving through the arts.
- Voices of Da Vinci Primary Choir (TK–2): Preparing for their annual performance at Wiseburn Middle School’s Rock Around the Block community event on April 25.
- Grades 3–8 Theatre Students: Expanding their skills through our new Wednesday classes: Acting/Improv with Diane Feldman and Dance with Lindsey Rei.
These foundational courses are nurturing the next generation of Da Vinci artists. We are thrilled to see students of all ages expressing themselves, developing new talents, and growing through the arts.
Call for Bands: Band Bash on May 7th!
Get ready—Band Bash is back on May 7th! Da Vinci’s signature, student-run rock band concert is returning, and we’re looking for bands to perform. This high-energy event welcomes all genres and is a fantastic opportunity for student musicians to perform live, connect with peers, and be part of an unforgettable night on campus.
Eligibility: At least one member of your band must be a current Da Vinci Schools student.
🎸 Sign up now: Sign Up for Band Bash
We are continually amazed by the talent, dedication, and artistry of our students, and we can’t wait to celebrate their performances on stage!
🎭 Beyond the Stage: The WDV Performing Arts Campaign
Our Annual Giving Matching Campaign is here! Donate by April 30 and your gift will be MATCHED.
Your support makes it possible for students to experience performing arts at the highest level—from enhancing our Blackbox Theater and upgrading instruments, to supporting travel, guest artists, meals, and community performances.
Together, we can expand access and opportunity so every student has the chance to step into the spotlight—on stage and beyond.
The match period runs through April 30, 2026—now is the time to make your gift go further!
