Wiseburn Da Vinci Performing Arts: A Year of Growth and Refinement
Entering its third year, the Wiseburn Da Vinci Performing Arts program is experiencing record growth, with participation reaching an all-time high across every discipline. This year’s theme of “refinement” captures the program’s energy as it builds on a strong foundation and reaches more students than ever before. We invite you to discover what’s ahead in this exciting year.
Stagecraft has expanded from two students to over 40 this semester, and Studio Orchestra now boasts an impressive roster of more than 50 students. At Da Vinci Connect High, Acting and Music Production have grown from just two students last year to 10 in each class. Our RISE offerings have also grown, with 25 students enrolled in Music Production and six students enrolled in a brand-new Acting class.
One of the most exciting additions this year is Drum Ensemble, led by new instructor Abraham Barrer. Abraham joins WDV Performing Arts from Hawthorne High School, where, as a student, he founded and led the Hawthorne High School Drumline. Already, his 20-person WDV Drum Ensemble is mastering fundamentals and techniques, setting the stage for next semester when we will officially launch Da Vinci’s very first Drumline. With brand-new drums on the way, this milestone is an exciting development not only for WDV Performing Arts but also for Athletics—where some performances will take place—and for the broader community.
The spring musical, Into the Woods, is shaping up to be a landmark production for WDV Performing Arts. We had a record number of auditions this fall, with 62 students auditioning for the cast and 50 for the crew. Students auditioned from all five Da Vinci high schools—a true testament to the program’s collaborative spirit under the leadership of Theatre Coordinator Diane Feldman. We are also thrilled to welcome Will Schneider as our newest full-time team member. Will will assist with the musical and maintain the Blackbox Theater, ensuring it remains a high-quality space for performances, community dialogue, hands-on technical training, and events across our organization.
Looking ahead, Da Vinci Communications, Design and Science will restart the popular Wednesday Lunch Open Mics in a new monthly format. Beginning this October, the tradition will rotate between campuses: the first Wednesday at DVD, the second at DVC, and the third at DVS. These open mics provide a fun, informal space for students to express themselves, connect with peers, and foster creativity on campus. Open Mics at Connect High and RISE are also in the works this semester.
To support the fast-growing WDV Performing Arts program, we are launching the “Beyond the Stage” fundraising campaign. This initiative invites parents, families, and friends to contribute to the continued success of the Wiseburn Da Vinci Performing Arts program. More details will be shared soon on how to get involved. Families can also pick up printed WDVPA ’25–’26 Master Calendars—available in both 11x17 size (ideal for small business promotion) and smaller postcard versions for your fridge—at the Central Office.
Finally, we’re excited to share a full slate of end-of-semester performances, where students will showcase their talents and hard work. Mark your calendars for these highlights:
- Band Bash (Halloween Smash) – Thursday, October 30 (Blackbox)
- WDVPA Winter Showcase – Friday, November 21 (El Segundo Performing Arts Center)
- “Fam Jam” presented by the Voices of Da Vinci Choir – Thursday, December 4 (Blackbox)
- Studio Orchestra Winter Concert – Monday, December 8 (Blackbox)
- Winter Performing Arts Seminar Night – Tuesday, December 9 (Blackbox)
We look forward to celebrating a season of creativity, growth, and refined artistry with our entire community!
