Be The Best Tree is a short film that explores how the Performing Arts Camp (PAC) cultivates stage presence and lifelong skills. Through a blend of static interviews, candid moments from the 2024 PAC summer camp, and archival footage, the documentary immerses viewers in the camp's dynamic atmosphere while investigating what performing arts can contribute to our society. Personal anecdotes from instructors, students, and alumni serve as the narrative backbone, revealing the profound impact PAC has on shaping young lives.
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Includes:
Your name in the end credits
01 Red carpet event ticket
01 Premiere Screening ticket
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Includes:
Your name and old theater picture in the end credits
02 Red carpet event tickets
02 Premiere Screening tickets
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Includes:
Your name as executive producer in the opening credits
Your name and old theater picture in the end credits
Up to 20 Red carpet event ticket
Up to 20 Premiere Screening tickets
“Concerning personal and social development in adolescents, the performing arts define relevant skills, qualities, capacities, and resources to help young people make successful transitions into adulthood, leading to healthy, confident, and independent lives”
What performing arts can do
Research consistently shows that engaging in performing arts like theater, music, dance, and storytelling enhances children's creativity and cognitive development. Rehearsing and performing refines communication skills and fosters confidence and clarity. Additionally, participation cultivates empathy and emotional intelligence through exploring diverse perspectives. Studies also link arts involvement to improved academic performance, as it encourages critical thinking and problem-solving. Most importantly, the collaborative nature of the arts nurtures teamwork and social skills crucial for success.
WHY PAC (Performing Arts Camp)
The success of the documentary relies on two key factors: PAC's enduring legacy and its loyal and devoted community of performing arts enthusiasts. With a robust network of 1200 alumni and an engaged student body, PAC provides an ideal setting to explore how performing arts can transform lives and society over thirty years.
PAC was established over 35 years ago by Mario Melodia and Pam Gregg to provide young people with an opportunity to experience the performing arts in an intense 4-week program. After Mario's retirement, his daughter in law Dianne Melodia continued his legacy and although now retired herself, continues as a valued and enthusiastic advisor. Over the years, the camp has benefited from the dedication of many talented professionals who have devoted years to generations of young performers, most notably Paula Jersey, Thom McLaughlin, Nina Mascio and Dru Cox.
“Every summer for the past 36 years a little bit of theater magic takes place on the Sewickley Academy stage.
As camp director it has been my pleasure to watch these kids grow, mature and realize that through PAC they have been given skills and gifts that will help them effectively and comfortably communicate and interact with others throughout their lives.
This documentary is a chance to pull back the curtain and look behind the scenes to understand how the performing arts can have a profound impact on the lives of children and young adults.
It is, as well, an opportunity for some of you to revisit fond memories of your years at PAC and to, hopefully provide inspiration for future performers, directors and enthusiastic audiences.”
Reach out : bestreesfilm@gmail.com
Bestrees Films is a documentary film production company committed to telling stories that matter. Sandra Bacchi and Valerie Kahrs, friends turned partners, firmly believe in the power of storytelling to transcend boundaries and foster empathy. Together, they shine a light on the intricacies of the human experience, providing a platform for diverse voices to be heard. Kristen Beddard Heimann joined their team as an associate producer to boost the film’s finance support.
Bestrees Film will have its first debut in 2025 with the short documentary Be the Best Tree.
