NEW Heights formed to continue summer musical tradition

An expanded performing arts initiative, NEW Heights, has been formed to serve student performers across Northeast Wisconsin.

The organization has announced it will present the hit musical Legally Blonde, with auditions scheduled for late May and performances taking place Aug. 7-9 at the Ashwaubenon Performing Arts Center.

NEW Heights was created by a group of dedicated arts advocates in Northeast Wisconsin to ensure that high school students continue to have access to a high-quality summer musical experience.

Building on the legacy of previous programs Next Stage and Studio 12, the organization aims to provide an inclusive, collaborative environment where young performers from across the region can come together to create meaningful theatrical work.

The formation of NEW Heights is rooted in a shared passion for ensuring that young performers in Northeast Wisconsin continue to have access to transformative and educational theatrical experiences.

Following last year’s lauded production of Hadestown: Teen Edition, community members recognized the profound impact it had on students and felt a responsibility to carry forward the legacy created by Next Stage and continued by Studio 12.

Under the leadership of Brent Brayko, a dedicated group of advocates came together with a common goal: to rebuild and reimagine a summer musical experience for the next generation.

“I am honored to be a part of this group and grateful for the partnerships that have already been forged with the Ashwaubenon PAC, Evergreen Theatre, and numerous local artists,” said Brayko.

“This collaboration will provide high school students from all over Northeast Wisconsin the opportunity to engage in a high-quality theatrical experience that sharpens not only their skills on and behind the stage but also their pure love of theatre.”

NEW Heights aims to build a sustainable model by rotating creative teams from year to year, giving students the benefit of diverse artistic perspectives shaped by a wide range of experiences.

The summer 2026 production, Legally Blonde The Musical is a high-energy musical based on the iconic film, following Elle Woods as she defies expectations and proves herself at Harvard Law School.

Known for its vibrant contemporary score and humorous dialogue, the show celebrates determination, self-confidence and staying true to oneself, making it an ideal showcase for student performers.

The production will be led by an experienced creative team, including Kirt Graves (Director), Debbie Drumm (Music Director), Kari Devine (Pit Orchestra Director) and Anna Allen (Choreographer).

Together, they bring a wealth of experience creating high-quality theatrical productions and a shared commitment to creating a supportive environment for student performers.

“Legally Blonde is such an exciting and empowering show, and it’s the perfect way to launch this new chapter,” said Graves. “I can’t wait to bring students together from all over the area to create something joyful, challenging, and, hopefully, unforgettable.”

Auditions for Legally Blonde will be held on Tuesday, May 26, from 6-9 p.m. and Saturday, May 30, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., with callbacks scheduled for Sunday, May 31, from 12-4 p.m.

Auditions are open to incoming high school students and graduating seniors, up to age 18, from across Northeast Wisconsin.

Additional audition details and requirements will be made available through NEW Heights’ official social media platforms and at NEWHeightsOnStage.org.