MHS Visual and Performing Arts Students Learn How to Succeed in Show Business with Hershey Entertainment & Resorts’ Partnership

On Saturday, March 4, Milton Hershey School Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) students were joined by representatives from RWS Entertainment Group to learn about career opportunities in performing arts. Students asked questions and gained insider knowledge about how to succeed in show business, while aligning their passions and talents within a growing industry.

RWS is a partner of Hershey Entertainment & Resorts (HE&R) and provides quality entertainment for families to enjoy while visiting amusement parks, theaters, and other venues around the globe—including Hersheypark. Their connection to Hershey, Pennsylvania, made their visit even sweeter for MHS students.

“When many people think of careers in performing arts, Hollywood and Broadway are top of mind,” shared Dr. Ed Varner, MHS Director of Visual and Performing Arts. “But there are so many job opportunities in this industry. That’s what I hope our students gained from this experience with RWS.”

The three RWS representatives traveled from New York City to watch the student performance of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” before gathering for a meal and workshop. Students asked the special guests insightful questions to gain a better understanding of the entertainment industry and career opportunities for after they graduate from MHS.

They learned the importance of hands-on experiences in high school and higher education, what casting directors look for when finding talent, and unique career options that exist in entertainment, including teaching and business. The workshop fits into the school’s career-focused education initiative, which offers experiential learning opportunities for students to grow outside the classroom.

Aside from hosting this workshop, HE&R supports MHS students and graduates in building their soft skills through internships, job shadowing, mock interviews, and more. Students who work with HE&R are given real-life, on-the-job skills to build their resumes and expand their horizons.

“We are excited to give MHS students behind-the-scenes opportunities to see where their career path can take them and understand what a day in the life looks like,” added John Lawn, HE&R President and CEO. “We brought RWS representatives to work with MHS students to expand their knowledge and understanding of the industry. Everyone at HE&R is looking forward to our continued partnership with MHS as we leverage our resources and skills to create more opportunities like this one.”

Students were excited for the opportunity to see the world beyond the Founders Hall Auditorium stage—where they performed four shows during Winter Family Weekend, March 2-4. The weekend was the first time the newly renovated Auditorium was utilized for a musical or play in five years.

“As someone who plans to study performing arts in college, this was a great opportunity to network and learn from people currently in the business,” shared Sophia Lozada-Delzell, MHS Senior. “I appreciate the time RWS took to watch our musical performance and talk with us about their careers.”

Learn about Our Partnership with HE&R Learn about VPA at MHS

MHS Visual and Performing Arts Program Filled with Creative Opportunities