Operation Triple Threat: Sing, Dance, Act began as a developmental performing arts programme for students between the ages of 7 and 21. Founded by noted vocalist and music educator, Janelle Headley (B.F.A. Spec. Hons. Music), the programme was inspired by the need for training for the youth to become skilled in each of the three disciplines singing, dancing and acting. OTT has evolved from a camp in 2011 and is now an academic year programme (September to June).
Richard Eames of Island Villas presenting Janelle Headley and some of the Operation Triple Threat Crew with a Donation towards their growth for 2016
Island Villas has chosen to donate to this Licensed Charity as they aim to provide students with the opportunity to explore the World of Musical Theatre as an art form, as well as a possible career choice.
Through the years as OTT has grown as a spectacular performing arts programme the organization has been molded by the needs of the participants as well as a meal distributions program. A full list of the activities offered include:
- Classes: Talent and Creative Industry skills development in the areas of Voice, Dance and Drama
- Workshops and Master Classes: Facilitated sessions with local and international industry leaders to get first-hand proof that a successful career in the industry is a realistic option
- The Bridge Award Programme: Affords students the cross-cultural experience of going to New York City, providing exposure to the global standard of Broadway workshops, auditions, tertiary programmes or shows in the performing arts
- Meals Distribution Programme: Providing nutritious meals to economically disadvantaged students to support a healthy mind and body of the young performing artist
- Remedial Reading & Writing Volunteer Programme: Professional Volunteers help students with various reading and writing deficits to improve. After all, students need to be able to read, comprehend and interpret scripts and songs to clearly express themselves in written form
- Team Building: Contribute to broader life skills development through inclusive team work and healthy competition, competing in teams against each other in various activities such as trivia games, physical activities and research projects
- Community Service: To foster greater social responsibility amongst students through projects that address a current social issue, and provide opportunities to use performance art to uplift the local community through service events, such as providing entertainment at a hospital or children’s home
- Performances: Students apply the skills and techniques learnt during the year at the final showcase, usually held at the prestigious Frank Collymore Hall
Operation Triple Threat
The overall performance of the students involved in Operation Triple Threat has improved and the fruits of investments are seen through students moving on to acclaimed performing arts institutions. Some of their main accomplishments to date include:
- 5 out of 5 students accepted into AMDA (American Musical and Dramatic Academy) for Fall 2016: Jabari Browne, Melanie Jean-Baptiste, Makala King, Katani Lewis and Charlene Morris
- Tarla Morris: (OTT 2011 – 2015) accepted to the renown Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan, USA and began studies in September, 2015
- 2015 Broadway Trip & New York Auditions: In the summer of 2015, 5 students attended an American Academy of Dramatic Arts Workshop in New York City as well as auditions for AMDA (American Musical and Dramatic Academy)
- Shows: OTT performed a number of shows each receiving rave reviews. They included The Wiz and 13, a musical by Jason Robert Brown
Operation Triple Threat Performing ‘The Wiz’
Operation Triple Threat provides a ‘home away from home’ as they work towards building the skill sets of their students. As the organization works towards presenting the two musicals ‘Into the Woods’ and ‘Seussical Juniors’ next year their number of participants as well as their need for volunteers grows. Different ways in which we encourage you to volunteer and help this phenomenal programme include:
- Sewing costumes
- Painting backdrops for the set
- Marketing OTT and their shows
- Meals programme – assisting with cooking and serving meals to OTT
- Aids in remedial English and reading
- Sponsoring a student
- Pairing students with businesses
Members of OTT are encouraged to pursue The Bridge Program whereby they experience the global standard of Broadway workshops, auditions, tertiary programmes or shows in the performing arts in New York City. A number of the students cannot afford these opportunities and therefore OTT is looking for businesses or persons who are willing to pair with one or more of their students and aid in their continuing growth.
