Thank you for attending The Little Mermaid Jr.! I couldn’t be more thrilled to share this day with you!
My mission as a performing artist, educator, and mother is to create an environment in my hometown for kids to express themselves and enjoy art. I grew up here in Lafayette, LA, receiving quality dance training and participating in choir through my church and public school education. My experience in singing and dancing eventually led me to musical theatre, where I found my true calling. My first musical production Les Miserables, Student Edition at ULL in 2004 changed my life.
I spent my twenties on stage in many college productions, attending workshops at SpringboardNYC and Yale University, doing professional theatre in NOLA, attaining my MA in Arts Administration, getting married, and becoming a mother. When I became a mom, everything changed and even my love for the stage had to take a back seat. But not for long… I’ve found a way to do what I love, be a great mom, educate children, create a fun experience for our hometown families, and give back to a fantastic organization that has helped my immediate family.
I feel fortunate to contribute to a revolutionary time in Acadiana where theatre is being introduced and available through private training and performance opportunities! I founded Wonderland Performing Arts with the hope of enriching young lives through the power of performing arts. Theatre is a fantastic way to teach children self-worth. It teaches them to be strong, yet flexible; patient, yet productive. It gives them an outlet to be their own wonderfully unique selves. As a mom, I want to provide memories for my daughter that will spark her imagination & inspire her to think for herself. My students are my other children and I want to do the same for them. This production is an ode to all of the children of Acadiana. Have a magical & WONDERful day, kiddos!
-Allison Brandon
