Shoreline Theater Academy Kidz Konnection

"Saw a great show written by Dean Paglino - his parents are friends and I was very impressed with his work!!"

"Kidz Konnection was a huge part of what made me who I am today. I had been going to Kidz Konnection since I was in elementary school, back in 2006. I learned how to be a part of a team, how to be a confident speaker, and made lifelong friends through Kidz Konnection. I learned skills there that have helped me succeed in nearly every aspect of my life. Most of all, I learned that I am capable of succeeding when I put my mind to something. Now, I have a Bachelor's degree in Cinema and am pursuing a Master's Degree in Higher Education and I don't think I would have had the confidence to pursue these goals and passions of mine if it weren't for everyone at Kidz Konnection providing me with the support and acceptance that they did when I was growing up."

"I have worked with Kidz Konnection as a student and as an assistant director. I began with the company when I was 12 years old in 2008. My work with Laura has been nothing but beneficial, inspirational, and exciting. Laura dedicates her time to each child to make sure that they are receiving the feedback, care, and attention they deserve. I was able to grow from a young actor with little knowledge about the stage to a seasoned performer with her company, and a confident actor in other productions. Kidz Konnection is a unique theater company because it gives every child the opportunity to grow. Whether a lead or a supporting character, kids will always be encouraged to try new things and be themselves. Kidz Konnection branches out into its Shoreline Actors Collective, a separate group (part of Kidz Konnection) that focuses on teaching young adults more complicated text such as the works of Shakespeare and Agatha Christie. Being a part of this group since its creation, I am proud to say each show has been a delight to be a part of and an integral part to my growth as an actor. I also had the pleasure of working alongside Laura during the 2015 production of "Romeo and Juliet". She was so ready to hear new ideas about the show and allowed me the opportunity to develop my skills as a director. She helpfully guided me in this new endeavor and was encouraging and supportive. Directing with Laura was one of the most amazing experiences I've had to date, and I know that any of her future assistant directors and employees will enjoy working with her. Overall, my experience with Kidz Konnection has been important to who I've grown up to be. Laura has been an awesome role-model in my life and I am so happy to have been a part of her organization for so long. I would highly recommend this acting studio to all parents for their children because Kidz Konnection teaches children not only responsibility and theater, it also gives them an outlet to be themselves and have fun!"

""Strange isn't it? Each man's life touches so many other lives." It's a Wonderful Life was the first production our son was involved in 4 years ago. Kidz Konnection and specifically the director, tirelessly and compassionately supports our children to become confident actors. Laura's energy and commitment to the children are evident in each step of the production. Our children have walked into rehearsal after a tough day at school and left skipping with energy because of how Laura reminded them "let it roll off your back like a duck", followed by a creative theater game and praise for a job well done. I've watched her console nerves, empower shyness, earn respect and give meaningful praise to groups of 50+ kids ranging from ages 5-18 all sitting in a room together. Having now spent years at the studio and behind the scenes during performances I've witnessed children grow from Tiny Thespians into lead characters. The family atmosphere Kidz Konnection creates isn't just on stage. I've witnessed older actors mentor younger ones whether it be running lines, helping with homework during downtime, or using improv during a performance to help cue a young actor instead of just skipping over their line. This stems from the "it takes a village" motto that Laura practices with parents and actors that helps to inspire respectful, caring, confident kids. I think I can fairly say that Laura has touched many lives because families return year after, the cast list continues to grow and children beam with pride after each amazing adventure is captured on stage."

"We signed up with Kidz Konnection more than 9 years ago and couldn't be happier with all of our experiences and friends there. My children have gotten so much from Laura in so many ways. My son is off at college now, but will surely be back this Summer for Shakespeare. The giving spirit and positive attitudes at the studio are simply contagious. The confidence my children have gained trough Kidz Konnection is amazing and the friendships are priceless."