A|D|A|M, the Academy of Developing Artists of Maine, is a non-profit art academy dedicated to helping individuals achieve their hopes, dreams, and goals in the performing arts. At A|D|A|M, every person has a place to share his or her unique talents, and thus to shine.
A|D|A|M was established in order to teach all areas of the theater from the inside-out, particularly to build kids' self-esteem so they will say "NO!" to the wayward (bullying, drugs, alcohol...) of the world and "YES!" to their dreams. A|D|A|M provides kids with a safe haven where they can explore theatre arts without fear of being rejected, embarassed, or not good enough.
A|D|A|M was founded by Ms. Ronda Verges in memory of her son, Adam Duane Sabins, who passed away at age 18 after a tragic car accident. During his lifetime, Adam was a victim of bullying due to his unique size, his battle with alopecia, and his non-confrontational response to aggression.
Two days before Adam's passing he conveyed to his mother, a children's theatre director, two requests and one wish.
His first request was that his mother's theatrical company offer kids in Missouri a one-week camp in the summer so they could build the self-esteem to say "NO" to drugs and "YES" to their dreams.
Secondly, he asked his mom to help his friend, Dillion, get the play he wrote off the ground. The "Neighborhood Boys" script was based on the experiences of Dillion, Adam, and their friends.
Thirdly, his wish was for his mom to form her own art academy so she wouldn't have to work so hard as part of a traveling troupe.
This is the story where "One Persistent Angel" begins.
Three years after Adam's passing, "The Lighthouse", a childrens' theater company in Missouri, was established and runs under the directorship of Lynn Hendrick. Only an angel could take a Maine woman's desire to fulfill her son's last request and connect her with a compassionate woman in Missouri who felt compelled to start a children's theatre company!
As for Adam's second request, Dillion recently returned from Iran and Ms. Ronda has yet to find him. But when she does, "Neighborhood Boys" will be performed in both Maine and Missouri!
And as for Adam's wish for his mom, miracles do happen -- A|D|A|M is alive and thriving!
Adam Duane Sabins, 1986-2005, may be gone, but by no means is he done...
Ongoing Thursdays _ 5:30pm
Choral auditions held at A|D|A|M for ages 5-18
(for Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude performance)
Ongoing Fridays _ 4pm
New Class! Ballroom Dancing at A|D|A|M, with a Masquerade Ball March 4th or 5th! (TBD)
October 30 _ 7pm
Halloween Costume Party at A|D|A|M for ages ...
November 3 _ 6pm
"Tiny Thumbelina" performance at Biddeford Middle School Performing Arts Center
A|D|A|M is a fun and exciting place to explore and grow in both fine arts and performing arts!
In this "No Bullying Zone" each individual has the opportunity to be his or her unique self, without fear of judgment or rejection.
As a nonprofit academy, A|D|A|M is a place where voices soar and self-esteem blossoms. Our students grow to become the technical crew, costume designers, make-up artists, pit musicians, actors, assistant directors, set designers, and backdrop artists.
Through hands-on learning, our students master the skills that allow them to produce professional-quality, main-stage performances -- and feel proud of all their accomplishments!
Various programs are offered to fit the needs of children, teens, adults, and families. From Pee Wee Theatre to Performance Crew, our talented staff help to enhance the abilities of the up and coming actor, the public / motivational speaker, and artists of all ages!
We're excited to have you and your child join us!!
Here at A|D|A|M, we know that we have something special to share!
If you are not tempted to step on-stage, perhaps one of our other services will attract you....
In addition to our current listings, we welcome your ideas and suggestions for expanding our services to meet your particular needs.
All dreams have a place to come true in A|D|A|M's little theatre! Tell us your dream and we'll help make it happen!
Ronda Verges
Artistic Director, A|D|A|M
Tom Whateley
Artistic Director, Community Theatre
Founder/Executive Director
Meghan Rioux
Office Manager
Deb Duca
Billing
Marketing & Volunteers
432 Elm Street Suite E
Biddeford, ME 04005
*On Route 1, Across From Mardens*
Seasoned actors are welcome to audition for our troupe. This committed group of individuals is dedicated to providing audiences with exceptional performances in order to benefit A|D|A|M.
The troupe performs one fall play and one spring play, under the artistic direction of Tom Whately.
The Fall 2010 troupe will perform a musical rendition of Godspell.
The performances are scheduled for the first three weekends in October and will be held at the Christ Church on Dane Street in Kennebunk. Check A|D|A|M's home page for more details and information on ticket sales.
If you are interested in devoting your theatrical talents to a local company, consider auditioning for the Spring 2011 play!
Contact Tom Whately at plankstw_aol.com for more information.
We all need some personal attention now and then!
Whether you want to hone your acting skills with some direct instruction, or you wish to pursue lessons in singing, piano, or guitar, A|D|AM's instructors are available for appointments!
The hourly fee for services ranges from $25.00 to $100.00, depending on the needs of the student. Rates are determined at the beginning of a service period and payments are subject to the same policies as A|D|AM's classes.
In order to arrange an initial consultation, please contact us at adamkidztheatre_yahoo.com.
Here at A|D|A|M, we think it's important to be part of the community and support local events. We have a steady cast of students capable of presenting recently practiced performances in both public and private venues. Upcoming events include:
"Tiny Thumbelina" at Toddle Inn in Kennebunk
Pipsqueak Pipes at Kennebunk Free Library's Talent Show
"Tiny Thumbelina" at Chalk on the Walk in Biddeford
