The Amazing Grace Conservatory (AGC) is celebrating the 25th anniversary of building a legacy together. For more than two decades, members of the AGC have dedicated their time and energy to the training and development of emerging artists.
Their mission statement states, “To train and develop emerging artists and underrepresented youth in the performing, digital and media arts by offering a culturally enriching educational program in an environment that is nurturi8ng for their personal artistic and professional growth.
Wendy Raquel Robinson, known for her iconic role as Regina in “The Steve Harvey Show,” is the co-founder/artistic director of the program. She is involved in creating a space that looks to inspire youth to have the mindset of limitless possibilities.
Outlining her process in an exclusive founder’s note, Robinson said, “I introduce Amazing Grace Conservatory, (AGC), a theatrical, digital and media arts training institute for youth and young adults ages 5-18. As we embark on our 25th Anniversary Season, it amazes me to witness the ‘Full Circle of Life, Love and Legacy’ that has touched, moved, and inspired thousands of lives throughout the years.”
She continued in her statement, “I grew up in South Central Los Angeles and witnessed the socio-economic disparities that impacted both me and my community. The devastation of the LA Riots in 1992, combined with the aftermath of seeing my beloved neighborhood destroyed, our schools and our children in crisis, became a defining moment for me and the vision for Amazing Grace Conservatory was born.”
As an NAACP award-winning program, AGC focuses on youth between the ages of 5-18, honing in on their skills and preparing them for success in creative industries and beyond.
AGC has the tools to build the best experience for the whole family. Some up-and-coming events include “The Lion King,” which opens on May 21-22. One can also feel the excitement and connection through generations at the 25th Anniversary Celebration on July 16, of this year.
The statement from the official press release indicates this season of “The Lion King,” is one not to miss. It is a “night of soul-stirring music and electrifying dance numbers,” 55 young performers between the ages of 8-18, turn the stage into a great safari.
Other activities funneling through AGC, include the First Annual Thrill of Sugar Hill Arts Revival Festival (S.H.A.R.P). The event calls for connection through storytelling, the goal outlined stated, “to engage the community in recognizing the significance of the arts and provide avenues for residents to participate in social and artistic initiatives to preserve history and expand opportunities for future generations.”
The statement released explaining (S.H.A.R.P) read, “Sugar Hill Arts Revival Festival (S.H.A.R.P.)
is a multi-faceted initiative that sheds light on the rich art history of well-known African American entertainers who resided in Los Angeles’ ‘Sugar Hill District’ during the 1940-50s. S.H.A.R.P implores the community to engage with art, culture, and history through multiple mediums and platforms.”
AGC will be going through their archives and reviving original musicals such as “Anny’mae and Asbury,” Written by Tracy Lamar Coley. AGC also provides an annual scholarship in his honor, the “TLC” Scholarship is a grant awarded to a “deserving graduating senior that is attending an accredited (4) year university or college and majoring in the arts.”
The AGC building is located at 2401 W. Washington Blvd, Los Angeles CA., find out more information at amazinggraceconservatory.org.
