By Mich Martin
Journal Staff
On Tuesday, October 9, 2018 Famed Studios and House of Adonis held a practice for students to further prepare for their performance, which took place, last Saturday, October 13th for Cleveland State University’s homecoming parade. Bridget Hanson, Executive Director of House of Adonis and Instructor at Famed Studios states “We at Famed Studios are a fast-operating crew, beginning work just two weeks into September with a major event in October.”
Famed Studios has progressed in large, thanks to The House of Adonis (established 1995), where directors and instructors of Famed Studios such as Bridget Hanson, Shawanda “Spyda” Johnson, and Jessica Sanchez (CSU Alumni) began their careers in entertainment and art expression.
Students for Famed Studios were recruited from within the House of Adonis, including a summer program at Glenville School and high gang-related areas. Famed Studios and The House of Adonis is recognized as a no bully zone, with the motto “Everybody is Somebody, So Be Somebody.”
Sophia Hanson, age 16 says “Its our job as a team, to help others when they make mistakes. Not to pick on them. Not to outcast them.”
Both Hanson and Shawanda “Spyda” Johnson have both been on the television shows Step Up Series, Widows, and Empire. Ms. Johnson has a recurring role in Empire and has also appeared in The Book of Leah and The Window. Ms. Shawanda has taken Famed Students to the next level by booking students for television. Students have performed in commercials for the Toledo Zoo, The Shye, Empire, and Shameless.
When asked about Famed Studios, students responded with thanks. Alyssa Ragland, age seven said, “It feels good. I like to practice because it’s fun and I get to meet new friends. I’m excited for the event.” Lastly, Carleigh Collier, age 15 said “I’m very excited about the event. Practice is fun. It’s nothing but positive energy here.”
Toledo was represented during CSU’s homecoming parade with the City of Toledo flag being held throughout parade. There were 77 student performers (ages two to eighteen) from Toledo, Ohio. Community groups involved were the House of Adonis- outreach program, Famed Studios, Impact – college prep study group, and Winterfield Venture Academy – cheer leaders and band.
Famed Studios upcoming performances: Toledo’s Christmas parade and in Detroit for the Lakers vs. Pistons game in March 15th.
To get involved with the House of Adonis and to become a Girl Scout, the community is encouraged to step in a meeting. These are held weekly, on Wednesday from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
Famed Studios offer a year-round, FREE tap dance class for the community, on Thursdays at 6 PM at Winterfield Venture Academy, 305 Wenz Road, Toledo, OH 43615.
“Working with the instructors at Famed Studios you will see growth within the first month of classes, GUARANETEED,” according to Shawanda “Spyda” Johnson, Artistic Director for Famed Studios.
