Kids Unlimited would like to recognize
Tabitha Roberts
Our 2023 Graduate
We are so proud of her.
Tabitha Rose Roberts, began her career at KU when she was only 3 yrs old
Tabitha graduated from Catalina Foothills High School and will be going to the University of Arizona-Online, getting her Bachelor’s of Applied Science in Healthcare Management.
This year, she also graduated from Pima County Joint Technical Education (JTED) as a certified
physical therapy technician.
In the fall she will be moving to Alabama to pursue an opportunity in furthering her healthcare experience. After earning her bachelor’s, Tabitha hopes to join the Capstone College of Nursing at Alabama University.
She has loved all of her time with KU, especially teaching the Littles
She will miss all of her KU family and friends.
Tabitha graduated from Catalina Foothills High School and will be going to the University of Arizona-Online, getting her Bachelor’s of Applied Science in Healthcare Management.
This year, she also graduated from Pima County Joint Technical Education (JTED) as a certified
physical therapy technician.
In the fall she will be moving to Alabama to pursue an opportunity in furthering her healthcare experience. After earning her bachelor’s, Tabitha hopes to join the Capstone College of Nursing at Alabama University.
She has loved all of her time with KU, especially teaching the Littles
She will miss all of her KU family and friends.
AND THE WINNER IS!!!!
Kids Unlimited would like to recognize
ANNA HOWE
GRAND PRIZE WINNER!
2017 "BREAKING BARRIERS ESSAY CONTEST"
We are so proud of her.
I am Anna, and I'm 10 years old. Unlike other kids my age, I have multiple diseases, one called Eosinophilic Esophagitis-EoE for short. It is a chronic allergic immune condition where my white blood cells and my esophagus don't communicate right. EoE is life threatening. If I eat like a normal kid, I get hives, migraines, reflux, cramps, vomit, things like that. I take six different medications. Twice a year I have to go to the hospital where they take biopsies of my esophagus and stomach. The only hospital that can help me is Children's Hospital of Colorado. We spend at least a week twice a year at the Ronald McDonald House in Denver. There is no cure. My brother has EoE too. I have a tutor because I am absent from school often. I should be eating cupcakes and pizza and having fun with my friends, but I can't because food hurts my body and ruins my esophagus. I am different, people are intimidated by me. They think I am contagious, and I deal with that along with an incurable disease.
I am determined, courageous, committed, and part of a team. Determination is doing everything I can to live a normal life. This means I have to take my medication and eat what my parents pack me- even if kids tease me and I'm jealous of what other kids eat, I know it's not good for me. Sometimes I just want to eat what they're having, like Jell-O, cake, or treats, but these are death sentences for me, and I face this constantly. Kids tease me, I walk away. Unfortunately like Jackie Robinson, we both know that it is hard to walk away because sometimes you just want to say something. Robinson's difference is on the outside, he taught people that he had exemplary character. Like him I am determined to teach people; I am not contagious and he is a role model who teaches me to walk away. Determination for me is taking my medicine and eating right. When I grow up, my determination will be educating kids who are sick, teaching them to learn, and hopefully find a cure.
I have courage because I have to be brave during a procedure. For example, the doctors use anesthesia to put me to sleep, then they put a tiny camera down my esophagus to see if there's any inflammation. They take biopsies of my esophagus. I get a lot of needles and blood draws. By having courage, I teach my little brother that it is okay, it could be a lot worse.
I also have to work with the team! That team isn't the Dodgers, but it is my doctors and my family. I have to listen to them, be truthful, just like Jackie had to trust his team, I can't give up on mine. They help by equipping me with the right medicines for emergencies, comfort me, and believe in me. Part of my team are the child life nurses; they are so nice and inform me about what is going to happen and they give me courage. All of this is only a part of my life story, my other team is Kids Unlimited. "KU" is a nonprofit which provides a safe stage for kids. I am accepted like family. With this group I practice citizenship and excellence. On stage, no one can tell that I am sick. I imagine that this is what it was like on the baseball field for Jackie, he was so good people saw him for something other than being black. The stage is like this for me, I practice songs and routines to be excellent; being good is just mediocre. I share my talent on stages across Tucson. It feels good to make other people smile. My favorite place to perform is the VA hospital because I know the audience served my country and I believe we need to do something for them. I also sing at community events, nursing homes, and Salvation Army dinners. When I am on stage my confidence boosts, I forget about being sick and everything around me. I sing and dance to give others happiness!
I am Anna, and Jackie Robinson is my hero. I wear a hospital gown instead of a baseball uniform. I am determined, courageous, and committed to making the world a better place through teamwork. I am a girl who will always fight for my life, a ten year old who sings to make others happy. A very sick little girl who wants to heal the world one song at a time.
Anna Howe
Tucson Hebrew Academy
Fourth Grade
February, 2017
I am determined, courageous, committed, and part of a team. Determination is doing everything I can to live a normal life. This means I have to take my medication and eat what my parents pack me- even if kids tease me and I'm jealous of what other kids eat, I know it's not good for me. Sometimes I just want to eat what they're having, like Jell-O, cake, or treats, but these are death sentences for me, and I face this constantly. Kids tease me, I walk away. Unfortunately like Jackie Robinson, we both know that it is hard to walk away because sometimes you just want to say something. Robinson's difference is on the outside, he taught people that he had exemplary character. Like him I am determined to teach people; I am not contagious and he is a role model who teaches me to walk away. Determination for me is taking my medicine and eating right. When I grow up, my determination will be educating kids who are sick, teaching them to learn, and hopefully find a cure.
I have courage because I have to be brave during a procedure. For example, the doctors use anesthesia to put me to sleep, then they put a tiny camera down my esophagus to see if there's any inflammation. They take biopsies of my esophagus. I get a lot of needles and blood draws. By having courage, I teach my little brother that it is okay, it could be a lot worse.
I also have to work with the team! That team isn't the Dodgers, but it is my doctors and my family. I have to listen to them, be truthful, just like Jackie had to trust his team, I can't give up on mine. They help by equipping me with the right medicines for emergencies, comfort me, and believe in me. Part of my team are the child life nurses; they are so nice and inform me about what is going to happen and they give me courage. All of this is only a part of my life story, my other team is Kids Unlimited. "KU" is a nonprofit which provides a safe stage for kids. I am accepted like family. With this group I practice citizenship and excellence. On stage, no one can tell that I am sick. I imagine that this is what it was like on the baseball field for Jackie, he was so good people saw him for something other than being black. The stage is like this for me, I practice songs and routines to be excellent; being good is just mediocre. I share my talent on stages across Tucson. It feels good to make other people smile. My favorite place to perform is the VA hospital because I know the audience served my country and I believe we need to do something for them. I also sing at community events, nursing homes, and Salvation Army dinners. When I am on stage my confidence boosts, I forget about being sick and everything around me. I sing and dance to give others happiness!
I am Anna, and Jackie Robinson is my hero. I wear a hospital gown instead of a baseball uniform. I am determined, courageous, and committed to making the world a better place through teamwork. I am a girl who will always fight for my life, a ten year old who sings to make others happy. A very sick little girl who wants to heal the world one song at a time.
Anna Howe
Tucson Hebrew Academy
Fourth Grade
February, 2017
KU Studios pulling out all the stops for 30th anniversary show
Posted: Tuesday, November 8, 2016 9:54 am
Logan Burtch-Buus, The Explorer
A great buzz of activity has begun to filter out from the halls of KU Studios as dozens of Kids Unlimited performers prepare for a 30th anniversary party. There is no wedding or high school reunion, however, but a celebration of performance organization’s own 30 years in operation. A full-time performing studio, KU offers training in singing, dancing and acting – what executive director and co-founder Carol Sottosanti calls the performing “triple threat.”
With an upcoming anniversary event to perform, dozens of performers of all ages are working tirelessly to perfect routines, nail-down solos and make any necessary adjustments. Though the pressure may be on, Sottosanti said that after 30 years of performing a wide range of shows the team behind KU is more than ready to amaze.
Entitled “Salute to Broadway and the Silver Screen,” Sottosanti said the show will range from a 100-year review of Broadway music, original pieces, several Disney arrangements and a short holiday section, aiming to entertain an audience of all ages.
Despite KU Studios working through preparations for a 30th birthday blowout performance, Sottosanti recently sat down with The Explorer to reflect on the past 30 years of running a business, establishing a non-profit and crafting a creative legacy within the Tucson community.
Though she may now helm a vast cadre of impressive youth performers, the origin of Kids Unlimited are found within Sottosanti’s own family. A member of a deeply musical family, Sottosanti – a longtime Oro Valley resident - said she became frustrated in looking for places at which her daughters could perform around town.
“I have a large family and two of my daughters sing and dance and I had another which danced, and I was looking for a place where my kids could get some experience,” she said. “They were auditioning for things and there was nothing other than a dance recital or two. Back in the 80s you couldn’t really find a voice coach who would one, teach children and two, there was no place which developed singing, dancing and acting in combination – the triple threat you need to perform on stage and in Broadway. …Another mother I was friends with asked if we should put something together.”
What began as shows at nursing homes, malls and small venues around town has developed over three decades to become an institution within the performing community which gives children ages 3 to 18 the chance to perform in a variety of venues and truly understand what it takes to perform on stage.
More than just a performing studio, Sottosanti said that Kids Unlimited has become a family for all those involved, looking out for one another, providing guidance and working together to become better, more complete people on and off of the stage.
“What we hope most is that they develop a good sense of self esteem, feel comfortable about saying ‘Hi, my name is so-and-so,’ or even a report in school,” Sottosanti said. “It helps to build that confidence so that they are not afraid to talk to people. They can always apply that no matter what because not every one of them is going to become a professional performer. We hope that we give them a good base if they are.”
Though many of her former students have gone off to pursue other goals in their own lives, Sottosanti said she is happy knowing that she and those who make up KU Studios have made a positive impact on countless youth and their families.
“If they hang around, these young children, they are accountable,” she said. “My daughter that is here full time, lives here and helps me run KU, she’s on Snapchat, she’s watching them and if she sees something starting to go south she will talk to them. …We can’t see everything, but we just hope that their language is okay, they dress somewhat appropriately and they know they have to act a certain way.”
More than happy to show just how amazing her youth performers are, Sottosanti welcomed the entire Tucson community to come see “Salute to Broadway and the Silver Screen” and judge for themselves.
The show will take place at the Berger Performing Arts Center located at 1200 W. Speedway Blvd. on Friday, Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 12 at 3 p.m. Tickets cost $15 per adult and $11 for children and seniors and are available online at www.kustars.com or by calling 293-1225.
© 2017 Tucson Local Media. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Logan Burtch-Buus, The Explorer
A great buzz of activity has begun to filter out from the halls of KU Studios as dozens of Kids Unlimited performers prepare for a 30th anniversary party. There is no wedding or high school reunion, however, but a celebration of performance organization’s own 30 years in operation. A full-time performing studio, KU offers training in singing, dancing and acting – what executive director and co-founder Carol Sottosanti calls the performing “triple threat.”
With an upcoming anniversary event to perform, dozens of performers of all ages are working tirelessly to perfect routines, nail-down solos and make any necessary adjustments. Though the pressure may be on, Sottosanti said that after 30 years of performing a wide range of shows the team behind KU is more than ready to amaze.
Entitled “Salute to Broadway and the Silver Screen,” Sottosanti said the show will range from a 100-year review of Broadway music, original pieces, several Disney arrangements and a short holiday section, aiming to entertain an audience of all ages.
Despite KU Studios working through preparations for a 30th birthday blowout performance, Sottosanti recently sat down with The Explorer to reflect on the past 30 years of running a business, establishing a non-profit and crafting a creative legacy within the Tucson community.
Though she may now helm a vast cadre of impressive youth performers, the origin of Kids Unlimited are found within Sottosanti’s own family. A member of a deeply musical family, Sottosanti – a longtime Oro Valley resident - said she became frustrated in looking for places at which her daughters could perform around town.
“I have a large family and two of my daughters sing and dance and I had another which danced, and I was looking for a place where my kids could get some experience,” she said. “They were auditioning for things and there was nothing other than a dance recital or two. Back in the 80s you couldn’t really find a voice coach who would one, teach children and two, there was no place which developed singing, dancing and acting in combination – the triple threat you need to perform on stage and in Broadway. …Another mother I was friends with asked if we should put something together.”
What began as shows at nursing homes, malls and small venues around town has developed over three decades to become an institution within the performing community which gives children ages 3 to 18 the chance to perform in a variety of venues and truly understand what it takes to perform on stage.
More than just a performing studio, Sottosanti said that Kids Unlimited has become a family for all those involved, looking out for one another, providing guidance and working together to become better, more complete people on and off of the stage.
“What we hope most is that they develop a good sense of self esteem, feel comfortable about saying ‘Hi, my name is so-and-so,’ or even a report in school,” Sottosanti said. “It helps to build that confidence so that they are not afraid to talk to people. They can always apply that no matter what because not every one of them is going to become a professional performer. We hope that we give them a good base if they are.”
Though many of her former students have gone off to pursue other goals in their own lives, Sottosanti said she is happy knowing that she and those who make up KU Studios have made a positive impact on countless youth and their families.
“If they hang around, these young children, they are accountable,” she said. “My daughter that is here full time, lives here and helps me run KU, she’s on Snapchat, she’s watching them and if she sees something starting to go south she will talk to them. …We can’t see everything, but we just hope that their language is okay, they dress somewhat appropriately and they know they have to act a certain way.”
More than happy to show just how amazing her youth performers are, Sottosanti welcomed the entire Tucson community to come see “Salute to Broadway and the Silver Screen” and judge for themselves.
The show will take place at the Berger Performing Arts Center located at 1200 W. Speedway Blvd. on Friday, Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 12 at 3 p.m. Tickets cost $15 per adult and $11 for children and seniors and are available online at www.kustars.com or by calling 293-1225.
© 2017 Tucson Local Media. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
KU Honored for Their Support of the VFW
On Saturday, April 27, 2013 the VFW, Veteran's of Foreign Wars, and the Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars honored Kids Unlimited with the Department of Arizona's Award of Appreciation for their outstanding help at the VFW and Ladies Auxiliary VFW Christmas Party.
"We are honored to be part of such an amazing event. It is always great when our children get a chance to perform in a community service environment, and enjoy it. They are still talking about this audience!"
"We are honored to be part of such an amazing event. It is always great when our children get a chance to perform in a community service environment, and enjoy it. They are still talking about this audience!"
KU Kids Support the Troops
As a part of their winter show and a part of their commitment to community service, KU Studios, Home of Kids Unlimited collected a large amount of care package items to send to our troops serving in Afghanistan.
And the troops were ecstatic! from razors and soap to games and girl scout cookies, a total of 36 boxes went oversees. Thank you to all who participated. And an even bigger thank you to those men and women that fight for our freedom everyday!
Attached are the thank you's that came back along with some pictures. And below is a note from Chief Brandau himself.
Chief Lancaster,
I wanted to include a hand-written note from someone "as you can see" very appreciative for the packages.
As you know, all my folks are not in one location. I have personally been taking care packages on my travels ensuring to spread KU Studios good deed throughout our AOR.
Thanks again for your and Kelly's part...KU Studios "Rocks",
Chief Brandau
Chad D. Brandau, CMSgt, USAF
District Chief Master Sergeant
And the troops were ecstatic! from razors and soap to games and girl scout cookies, a total of 36 boxes went oversees. Thank you to all who participated. And an even bigger thank you to those men and women that fight for our freedom everyday!
Attached are the thank you's that came back along with some pictures. And below is a note from Chief Brandau himself.
Chief Lancaster,
I wanted to include a hand-written note from someone "as you can see" very appreciative for the packages.
As you know, all my folks are not in one location. I have personally been taking care packages on my travels ensuring to spread KU Studios good deed throughout our AOR.
Thanks again for your and Kelly's part...KU Studios "Rocks",
Chief Brandau
Chad D. Brandau, CMSgt, USAF
District Chief Master Sergeant
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Tohono Chul's Holiday Nights Attract Thousands
by Andrea Riveria (article), Arizona Daily Star
Thursday, December 1, 2011
For online version of the complete article, click here!
If this weekend's Holiday Nights at Tohono Chul Park is anything like last week's event, it will be the hottest ticket in town.
People packed the park last Friday and Saturday to stroll through the desert's version of a winter wonderland.
About 3,000 people visited the park over the first two evenings of Holiday Nights.
The event's final two nights are Friday and Saturday.
The parking lot had reached capacity shortly after the doors opened at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, with cars parked up and down North Paseo del Norte.
The crowds came to see the Sonoran Desert wrapped in more than 750,000 lights. Chimineas produced their own radiant glow, and there was even a desert snowman or two.
And there was no shortage of entertainment carrying classic Christmas tunes through the park.
Eighth-grader Jennifer Bass was among the performers Saturday. She took the stage as part of Kids Unlimited's Hope for the Holidays show.
Jennifer, 13, entertained the crowd with a solo performance of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas."
"It gets everyone in the Christmas mood," Jennifer said of Holiday Nights. "It's really fun getting to see people smile and enjoy the show."
Thursday, December 1, 2011
For online version of the complete article, click here!
If this weekend's Holiday Nights at Tohono Chul Park is anything like last week's event, it will be the hottest ticket in town.
People packed the park last Friday and Saturday to stroll through the desert's version of a winter wonderland.
About 3,000 people visited the park over the first two evenings of Holiday Nights.
The event's final two nights are Friday and Saturday.
The parking lot had reached capacity shortly after the doors opened at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, with cars parked up and down North Paseo del Norte.
The crowds came to see the Sonoran Desert wrapped in more than 750,000 lights. Chimineas produced their own radiant glow, and there was even a desert snowman or two.
And there was no shortage of entertainment carrying classic Christmas tunes through the park.
Eighth-grader Jennifer Bass was among the performers Saturday. She took the stage as part of Kids Unlimited's Hope for the Holidays show.
Jennifer, 13, entertained the crowd with a solo performance of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas."
"It gets everyone in the Christmas mood," Jennifer said of Holiday Nights. "It's really fun getting to see people smile and enjoy the show."
St. Philip's Friday Night Live is great event for family
by Dean Knuth (article), Arizona Daily Star
Thursday, August 11, 2011
For online version of the complete article, click here!
St. Philip's Plaza was abuzz with music, kids playing and adults shopping last Friday.
The plaza teamed up with The Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance to bring Friday Night Live, a family event, to the center at East River Road and North Campbell Avenue.
Musical performers included the Bryan Dean Trio and Kids Unlimited, which played in the center courtyard while families mingled amongst the boutiques.
"We wanted to provide an event for the community and to let people explore our shops," said Alexandra Selby, St. Philip's director of marketing.
The event's final installment will be Sept. 2 and feature the Jim Howell Band, face-painting and other events.
"It's a place where moms can go shopping and kids can have a good time also," Selby said.
As Kids Unlimited sang and danced, little Xavi Bair couldn't keep her eyes off the stage. "It's definitely mesmerizing my 4-year-old," said her mom, Felicity Lanier.
Another audience member, Steve Metz, sat near the front row with friends.
"This is what makes Tucson a great city," he said.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
For online version of the complete article, click here!
St. Philip's Plaza was abuzz with music, kids playing and adults shopping last Friday.
The plaza teamed up with The Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance to bring Friday Night Live, a family event, to the center at East River Road and North Campbell Avenue.
Musical performers included the Bryan Dean Trio and Kids Unlimited, which played in the center courtyard while families mingled amongst the boutiques.
"We wanted to provide an event for the community and to let people explore our shops," said Alexandra Selby, St. Philip's director of marketing.
The event's final installment will be Sept. 2 and feature the Jim Howell Band, face-painting and other events.
"It's a place where moms can go shopping and kids can have a good time also," Selby said.
As Kids Unlimited sang and danced, little Xavi Bair couldn't keep her eyes off the stage. "It's definitely mesmerizing my 4-year-old," said her mom, Felicity Lanier.
Another audience member, Steve Metz, sat near the front row with friends.
"This is what makes Tucson a great city," he said.
Youngsters show off their skills
by David Sanders (article and photos), Arizona Daily Star
Thursday, July 28, 2011
For online version of the complete article, click here!
If life is a stage, then these kids have been living it up.
With a big stage set in the middle of the Tucson Mall last Saturday, 30 school-age children, ages 3-18, paid a $15 entry fee to showcase their talent in the first-ever "These Kids Got Talent" show at the center court area of the mall.
The show was hosted by KU Studios, home of Kids Unlimited, with first, second, and third places in each of the age categories - 3-7 years, 8-13 years and 14-18 years old.
A grand-prize winner received $200 as well, according to Carol Sottosanti, director and vocal instructor for KU Studios, 6066 N. Oracle Road.
"In partnership with the mall, we thought it would be fun rather than just our group performing, which we do all the time at nursing homes, etc. We decided to open it up to the community and see if we could invite some kids who might not have the opportunity to share the stage and we gathered some prizes for them," Sottosanti said. Each participant received a Kids Unlimited stuffed bear.
"We have singers, dancers, we have a little boy who is acting, that type of variety. This is our first year doing this, and I know it will be a yearly event."
The audience, made up mostly of shoppers watching from the ground floor, second floor and escalators, clapped to a performance of Stevie Wonder's "Sir Duke."
Kadence Alexander, 7, dressed in a World War II outfit, saluted the audience as she finished her rendition of "God Bless America."
"I was thinking that I should just concentrate and have fun," said a relieved Kadence. "I really like dancing and I've been dancing for a while," she added with a smile.
"We believe that children can do everything," Sottosanti said between acts. "It's nice for them to get the opportunity to do this and it's a good way for parents who pay for a lot of lessons to also see the practical application of what their kids are learning. We know how much the stage helps the kids."
If the stage was to help children display their individualism as well as highlight their skills, it was a big success for dancer Kali Schmeltzer, 11, as she danced everywhere but on the small stage.
"It was fun because I got to go out there and perform in front of everybody and they got to see how good I am," she said.
Find out more
Go to www.kustars.com to learn more about the dance groups.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
For online version of the complete article, click here!
If life is a stage, then these kids have been living it up.
With a big stage set in the middle of the Tucson Mall last Saturday, 30 school-age children, ages 3-18, paid a $15 entry fee to showcase their talent in the first-ever "These Kids Got Talent" show at the center court area of the mall.
The show was hosted by KU Studios, home of Kids Unlimited, with first, second, and third places in each of the age categories - 3-7 years, 8-13 years and 14-18 years old.
A grand-prize winner received $200 as well, according to Carol Sottosanti, director and vocal instructor for KU Studios, 6066 N. Oracle Road.
"In partnership with the mall, we thought it would be fun rather than just our group performing, which we do all the time at nursing homes, etc. We decided to open it up to the community and see if we could invite some kids who might not have the opportunity to share the stage and we gathered some prizes for them," Sottosanti said. Each participant received a Kids Unlimited stuffed bear.
"We have singers, dancers, we have a little boy who is acting, that type of variety. This is our first year doing this, and I know it will be a yearly event."
The audience, made up mostly of shoppers watching from the ground floor, second floor and escalators, clapped to a performance of Stevie Wonder's "Sir Duke."
Kadence Alexander, 7, dressed in a World War II outfit, saluted the audience as she finished her rendition of "God Bless America."
"I was thinking that I should just concentrate and have fun," said a relieved Kadence. "I really like dancing and I've been dancing for a while," she added with a smile.
"We believe that children can do everything," Sottosanti said between acts. "It's nice for them to get the opportunity to do this and it's a good way for parents who pay for a lot of lessons to also see the practical application of what their kids are learning. We know how much the stage helps the kids."
If the stage was to help children display their individualism as well as highlight their skills, it was a big success for dancer Kali Schmeltzer, 11, as she danced everywhere but on the small stage.
"It was fun because I got to go out there and perform in front of everybody and they got to see how good I am," she said.
Find out more
Go to www.kustars.com to learn more about the dance groups.
The Kids Unlimited dancers perform the song "Sir Duke" by Stevie Wonder during the "These Kids Got Talent" show.
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Simone Bennett, 5, and her mother, Datasha Holland, watch the "These Kids Got Talent" show at the Tucson Mall.
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Kids Unlimited Offers Adult Class
by Janelle Montenegro (article and photos), Arizona Daily Star
Thursday, July 7, 2011
For online version of the complete article, click here!
KU Studios, home of Kids Unlimited, isn't just for children.
That was evident last week when a group of adults gathered at the North Oracle Road studios for a hip-hop class.
"The class was intended to be a fitness class and program for adults," said Catrina Sneva, a parent volunteer who is in charge of marketing for Kids Unlimited. "We kept having parents of the dancers come up and ask about adult classes."
KU Studios has offered the hip-hop classes for the past three months. "The kids are welcome to watch, but these classes are strictly for adults," Sneva said.
Kids Unlimited is a nonprofit organization that focuses on the performing arts. In addition to offering classes, it holds performances throughout the year.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
For online version of the complete article, click here!
KU Studios, home of Kids Unlimited, isn't just for children.
That was evident last week when a group of adults gathered at the North Oracle Road studios for a hip-hop class.
"The class was intended to be a fitness class and program for adults," said Catrina Sneva, a parent volunteer who is in charge of marketing for Kids Unlimited. "We kept having parents of the dancers come up and ask about adult classes."
KU Studios has offered the hip-hop classes for the past three months. "The kids are welcome to watch, but these classes are strictly for adults," Sneva said.
Kids Unlimited is a nonprofit organization that focuses on the performing arts. In addition to offering classes, it holds performances throughout the year.
Kids Unlimited Holds Summer Camps
by A.E. Araiza (article and photos), Arizona Daily Star
Thursday, June 9, 2011
For online version of the complete article, click here!
With magic wand in hand, Zoe Huestis prepares to grant a wish to Kaylee Church, playing Cinderella, during a rehearsal at a summer camp at KU Studios. KU Studios, the home of Kids Unlimited, 6066 N. Oracle Road, has a summer camp program where children act, sing and dance throughout the week. At the end of the week they give a 15-minute performance in front of friends and family to show off what they have learned.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
For online version of the complete article, click here!
With magic wand in hand, Zoe Huestis prepares to grant a wish to Kaylee Church, playing Cinderella, during a rehearsal at a summer camp at KU Studios. KU Studios, the home of Kids Unlimited, 6066 N. Oracle Road, has a summer camp program where children act, sing and dance throughout the week. At the end of the week they give a 15-minute performance in front of friends and family to show off what they have learned.
Bethany Giordano, left, who plays the prince in "Cinderella," has no luck putting the slipper on the stepsister, who is played by Talia Noli.
Playing the part of the wicked queen, Genesis German hovers over Alexis Byrnes, who plays Snow White. To find out about Kids Unlimited summer camps, go to www.kustars.com - the website says "it's never too late to join."
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David German takes photos of his daughters while sitting with his wife, Michele, and son Ezekiel during the performance at KU Studios.
Neriah German plays one of the dwarves in "Snow White."
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Tucsonan Advances on American Idol
by Samantha Ptashkin, FOX 11 News
Posted on February 18, 2011 at 5:34 PM
Updated yesterday at 5:38 PM
TUCSON, Ariz.--From the small stages of Southern Arizona, to the bright lights in Hollywood, for the first time in five years, Tucson's got a competitor in the American Idol contest.
Brittany Mazur, 21, is a former beauty queen, dance instructor at Kids Unlimited in Tucson and Rincon High School graduate.
After singing her rendition of "Mercy" to the American Idol judges in San Francisco, this Tucsonan advanced to Hollywood for the start of Season 10. "Brittany is a hard worker, she's been wanting to audition for a long time," said Jennie Marshall of Kids Unlimited. "She chose to wait a few years and we are over the moon about it. This studio is just on fire. We're very excited for her."
"We knew since age eight when we were sitting in the theater, listening to her big voice, belting out Barbara Streisand tunes in the way that she did, that she was going to be a star," Marshall said.
Mazur is in American Idol Top 40. Next week she will compete to make it in to the Top 24.
See the video below, or click here to see the article yourself.
Posted on February 18, 2011 at 5:34 PM
Updated yesterday at 5:38 PM
TUCSON, Ariz.--From the small stages of Southern Arizona, to the bright lights in Hollywood, for the first time in five years, Tucson's got a competitor in the American Idol contest.
Brittany Mazur, 21, is a former beauty queen, dance instructor at Kids Unlimited in Tucson and Rincon High School graduate.
After singing her rendition of "Mercy" to the American Idol judges in San Francisco, this Tucsonan advanced to Hollywood for the start of Season 10. "Brittany is a hard worker, she's been wanting to audition for a long time," said Jennie Marshall of Kids Unlimited. "She chose to wait a few years and we are over the moon about it. This studio is just on fire. We're very excited for her."
"We knew since age eight when we were sitting in the theater, listening to her big voice, belting out Barbara Streisand tunes in the way that she did, that she was going to be a star," Marshall said.
Mazur is in American Idol Top 40. Next week she will compete to make it in to the Top 24.
See the video below, or click here to see the article yourself.
KU Alumni On and Off Stage in "Anything Goes"
Anything Goes - Lesson in Tap Dance
Click here to see KU Alumni Bailey Cruce and Stephanie Tornquist (they are the blondes!)
Tuesday, Feb 15, 2011
Sneak aboard the S.S. American and enjoy the music, dancing and laughs packed into Cole Porter's zany musical comedy, "Anything Goes," as performed by Pima Community College Performing Arts - West Campus.
Click here to see KU Alumni Bailey Cruce and Stephanie Tornquist (they are the blondes!)
Tuesday, Feb 15, 2011
Sneak aboard the S.S. American and enjoy the music, dancing and laughs packed into Cole Porter's zany musical comedy, "Anything Goes," as performed by Pima Community College Performing Arts - West Campus.
- Wed., Feb. 23 at 7:30 p.m. (preview)
- Thu., Feb. 24 at 7:30 p.m. (opening night)
- Feb. 25 at 7:30 p.m.
- Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m.
- Feb. 27 at 2 p.m.
- Thu., March 3 at 7:30 p.m.
- Fri., March 4 at 7:30 p.m.
- Sat., March 5 at 7:30 p.m.
- Sun., March 6 at 2 p.m.
Before she was an American Idol, she was a KU performer!
or Immediate Release- February 10, 2011
It only takes one day to change the rest of your life, American Idol Season 10 San Francisco Auditions aired February 9, 2011. And last night one of Tucson’s own, not only blew away the judges at the audition and got a ticket to Hollywood week, she made the studio where she got her start very proud.
Before American Idol, Brittany Mazur worked as a teacher, a choreographer, a costume designer and a receptionist at the very performing arts studio, KU Studios Home of Kids Unlimited, where she got her start at the age of 8. One audition changed the rest of her life. And now her story will inspire the dreams of so many more.
Young aspiring singers, dancers and performers have filled the studios of Kids Unlimited for over 25 years. KU Studios, Home of Kids Unlimited is a studio where performers are encouraged to explore the arts in a safe environment regardless of where they come from, who they are, what they know. The studio is very proud of where talent, hard-work, determination and confidence have led one of their very own.
“American Idol may be on a hunt for undiscovered talent, but we have known all along! Congratulations Brittany!” states Carol and Vince Sottosanti, Directors of Kids Unlimited. “We will be watching and rooting for her. We know an American Idol when we see one!”
Brittany’s talent may bring her deserved success, but her inspiration within the studio will be momentous. By seeing an adored teacher and mentor on stage and national television, the students will see that they too can achieve their own goals and dreams.
Kids Unlimited is a non-profit 501(c)(3) performing group for children and teens that has been a part of the Tucson community for 25 years. With the primary purpose of providing Tucson youth with an opportunity to exhibit their individualism through the performing arts, Kids Unlimited is committed to providing a safe stage for all of those who love to perform. The goal of Kids Unlimited is to build confidence and self-esteem in all of our performers. Kids Unlimited gives them the chance to express their creativity as they blossom into inspired and successful young adults.
KU Studios is where you can:
Perform as one of our performing group members and know what it feels like to shine.
Dance your heart out and learn to do so with solid technique.
Sing that song that is in you and let others hear it, loud and clear.
Act out and get a standing ovation.
It only takes one day to change the rest of your life, American Idol Season 10 San Francisco Auditions aired February 9, 2011. And last night one of Tucson’s own, not only blew away the judges at the audition and got a ticket to Hollywood week, she made the studio where she got her start very proud.
Before American Idol, Brittany Mazur worked as a teacher, a choreographer, a costume designer and a receptionist at the very performing arts studio, KU Studios Home of Kids Unlimited, where she got her start at the age of 8. One audition changed the rest of her life. And now her story will inspire the dreams of so many more.
Young aspiring singers, dancers and performers have filled the studios of Kids Unlimited for over 25 years. KU Studios, Home of Kids Unlimited is a studio where performers are encouraged to explore the arts in a safe environment regardless of where they come from, who they are, what they know. The studio is very proud of where talent, hard-work, determination and confidence have led one of their very own.
“American Idol may be on a hunt for undiscovered talent, but we have known all along! Congratulations Brittany!” states Carol and Vince Sottosanti, Directors of Kids Unlimited. “We will be watching and rooting for her. We know an American Idol when we see one!”
Brittany’s talent may bring her deserved success, but her inspiration within the studio will be momentous. By seeing an adored teacher and mentor on stage and national television, the students will see that they too can achieve their own goals and dreams.
Kids Unlimited is a non-profit 501(c)(3) performing group for children and teens that has been a part of the Tucson community for 25 years. With the primary purpose of providing Tucson youth with an opportunity to exhibit their individualism through the performing arts, Kids Unlimited is committed to providing a safe stage for all of those who love to perform. The goal of Kids Unlimited is to build confidence and self-esteem in all of our performers. Kids Unlimited gives them the chance to express their creativity as they blossom into inspired and successful young adults.
KU Studios is where you can:
Perform as one of our performing group members and know what it feels like to shine.
Dance your heart out and learn to do so with solid technique.
Sing that song that is in you and let others hear it, loud and clear.
Act out and get a standing ovation.
Kids Unlimited in the News
Arizona Daily Star
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Loews Resort Celebrates the 12 Days of Christmas
A trio of special birds just might have been flying Sunday night over Loews Ventana Canyon resort, which is celebrating the 12 days of Christmas with holiday treats and entertainment.
Executive chef Krista Owens prepared vanilla crème brûlée for Sunday's three French hens-themed night, and Kids Unlimited performed.
"We're like one big family," said Amanda Tveten, a member of the singing and dancing group that performed about 20 holiday songs.
"I thought it was fantastic," said Christina Saunders, who watched the show with her son Jack Henry Saunders. "To know that they do this on their own, without an adult … is very impressive."
The event continues through Tuesday. For more information about the Twelve Days of Christmas at Loews or other Loews events go to the resort's web page, www.loewshotels.com/en/Ventana-Canyon-Resort
For more information about Kids Unlimited go to www.kustars.com
Celebrate the season
The free Twelve Days of Christmas event runs every night from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. through Tuesday at Loews Ventana Canyon's Cascade lounge. The resort is located at 7000 N. Resort Drive.
James S. Wood is a Tucson freelance photographer.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Loews Resort Celebrates the 12 Days of Christmas
A trio of special birds just might have been flying Sunday night over Loews Ventana Canyon resort, which is celebrating the 12 days of Christmas with holiday treats and entertainment.
Executive chef Krista Owens prepared vanilla crème brûlée for Sunday's three French hens-themed night, and Kids Unlimited performed.
"We're like one big family," said Amanda Tveten, a member of the singing and dancing group that performed about 20 holiday songs.
"I thought it was fantastic," said Christina Saunders, who watched the show with her son Jack Henry Saunders. "To know that they do this on their own, without an adult … is very impressive."
The event continues through Tuesday. For more information about the Twelve Days of Christmas at Loews or other Loews events go to the resort's web page, www.loewshotels.com/en/Ventana-Canyon-Resort
For more information about Kids Unlimited go to www.kustars.com
Celebrate the season
The free Twelve Days of Christmas event runs every night from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. through Tuesday at Loews Ventana Canyon's Cascade lounge. The resort is located at 7000 N. Resort Drive.
James S. Wood is a Tucson freelance photographer.
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