Something New is happening at MDMS

Mount Dora Middle School Theatre just got.... NEW

Hello Eagle Families!

My name is Jim Quinlan, the owner of Something New Studio, and I am thrilled have been asked to step in to take over the MDMS before school theatre program.  I understand that your students have had a fantastic beginning to the program and I am excited to take it to the next level!  And, I am extremely proud to be doing this at the Middle School that both my children attended just a few short years ago.  We are still in fact a Mt. Dora family with our youngest a sophomore at MDHS.

My wife Kristy and I started Something New in 2020 as a direct result of our kids.  We felt that none of the other local theatre programs focused on growing kids artistically.  The game was the same for all… huge cast musicals where kids mimicked what they saw in the movies and very few participants actually grew as actors.  We do youth theatre differently.  We focus on the skills kiddos need to flourish on stage and in life.  We build self confidence with each success and truly operate on a model of ensemble building among all those in our programs.  I believe that when we raise the bar in what we expect of young actors that they will rise to it.

My background… My degree from The University of Richmond is in Theatre and Elementary Education.  And while a bulk of my professional career was spent in Corporate Learning & Development my passion has been theatre since I was a child and I have had some amazing opportunities.  As a professional actor I have performed across the United States.  From Regional Theatres in VA, NY and Boston, as well as Disney and other Orlando based stages I made my way around.  And while most of my time these days is spend directing and teaching, I still find time to perform.  Currently performing at the Land of Oz in Beech Mountain, NC.  In addition, our family opened Hideaway Performing Arts Center in Eustis two years ago where I am Artistic Director, producing and directing a full season of professional plays and musicals.  My connections in the professional theatre community are strong and I am excited to share opportunities with your kiddos.

I assure you that your children will make the program transition seamlessly.  We will continue on the path that they are used to and over time will add our own elements.  Some of the kids in the program know me well and can assure the rest … we will have a blast and they will learn more than they even know is possible!

We will be officially taking over the program beginning 10/6.  I would ask that you take a moment and visit the MDMS page on www.SomethingNewStudioFL.com to officially register your child.  We will continue to meet on Tuesday mornings 8-9 and there will be no change to fees.  Billing will remain. be monthly.  If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me directly at 352-541-0041 or info@hideawayPAC.com.

Looking forward to meeting the kids and beginning the fun!

Jim Quinlan

Owner, Something New Studio