Our Story | Performing Arts Programs | Hartford County CT
Enroll Now →
Our Story

Nearly 30 years of young performers
finding their voice.

Since 1997, one thing has never changed: every child who walks through our door is met exactly where they are — no experience required, no judgment, just encouragement and real instruction.

Every parent who enrolls their child in Performing Arts Programs comes in with a version of the same quiet hope: I want my child to grow. Not necessarily to be a star — just to find their confidence, try something new, and discover what they’re capable of.

That’s been the whole point since day one. Not to produce Broadway performers — though some students have gone on to do exactly that. The point is the child standing a little taller at the end of class than they did at the beginning.

Nearly 30 years, more than 10,000 students, and partnerships with over 150 municipal recreation departments across Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. The numbers are real. But what they represent are thousands of individual moments — a shy child who raised their hand for the first time, a teenager who found the role that changed how they saw themselves, a kid who couldn’t wait to get back to class.

What Families Say

In their own words.

★★★★★ “

My daughter is normally shy but this group helped her grow outside of her comfort zone. Will definitely be looking for more classes to attend in the future!

— Alexis, Parent
★★★★★ “

She was so excited and wanted to continue the exercises you practiced when she came home. She’s looking forward to next week and really wishing she had another class today.

— Stephanie, Parent
★★★★★ “

My daughter was immediately captivated by his enthusiasm and was eager to come back each week. I look forward to continuing on in this program with Michael for my daughter!

— Jacquie, Parent · Simsbury
★★★★★ “

Michael is patient, genuine, and a truly talented teacher with lots of passion. I feel more prepared and confident to perform because of our work together. Michael doesn’t give up and will work with you until you feel you got it.

— Amanda, Student
Michael Lamb — Founder, Performing Arts Programs

Michael Lamb

Founder · Director · Teaching Artist
Performing Arts Programs, est. 1997

About Our Founder

The training to guide your child.
The heart to meet them where they are.

Michael Lamb studied Musical Theater at Carnegie Mellon University — one of twelve students selected nationally that year — and built a professional career in regional theater and national touring productions across the United States. He has shared the stage with Tony Award nominees and Tony Award winners, and was Associate Director for a major Royal Caribbean Entertainment production.

In 1997, Michael founded Performing Arts Programs with a belief that has never changed: every child deserves access to quality performing arts education in an encouraging environment. What started as a single acting class grew through word of mouth as recreation departments invited Michael to offer programs in their communities.

Over the next three decades, the program expanded throughout Connecticut, Western Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, partnering with more than 150 municipal recreation departments and reaching more than 10,000 students.

Through PAP, Michael has directed and produced youth productions at The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts. The Bushnell entrusted Michael to cast and prepare children for the National Touring Company of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Whistle Down the Wind. His students have gone on to perform on Broadway, appear on NBC television, earn lead roles in regional theaters across Connecticut, and earn acceptance into college conservatory programs.

“It would be my honor to work with you and help you develop your talent.”

— Michael Lamb

Today, Michael teaches both in-person group classes through PAP and private one-on-one coaching online through Lamb Studios Online — bringing the same philosophy to every student: encouragement first, technique always, and no one gets left behind.

Our Reach

Nearly 30 years of community impact.

~30
Years Serving CT Communities
10K+
Students Served
150
Municipal Government Partnerships
500+
Teaching Artists Trained
Michael Lamb directing students at The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts
A Milestone Moment

The Bushnell trusted us with
their stage.

The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts is Connecticut’s premier performing arts venue — the same stage that hosts Broadway touring productions, world-class orchestras, and major national acts.

The Bushnell entrusted Michael to cast and prepare children from PAP for the National Touring Company of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Whistle Down the Wind — a testament to the standard of preparation and professionalism that PAP students achieve.

PAP students have also performed in the Performing Arts Youth Collective — seasonal recitals at The Bushnell featuring Broadway performers and Tony Award nominees as guest artists working directly with young students.

“You are an asset to the Greater Hartford Arts Community and to the Bushnell.” — Scott G., Vice President of Programming, The Bushnell

More From Our Families

The results speak
for themselves.

★★★★★

“The name Michael Lamb is a beloved one in our family. He was my daughter’s vocal coach for many years. Not only is he a consummate professional, but he is also a kind, nurturing and supportive person. I believe there was a direct correlation between the training she received from Michael and the level of success she was able to attain — starring in an Off-Broadway show and performing as the showband vocalist for a major cruise line.”

— Ruthie, Parent
★★★★★

“Mr. Lamb was wonderful with the kids. He taught them many acting skills while they had a blast playing and laughing. He was incredibly patient with them all. It was a great experience all around.”

— The Hess Family
★★★★★

“Michael coached and supported my daughter for more than a decade, first in group classes and later in vocal and acting lessons. His positive, easygoing, and skilled guidance helped her earn lead roles in her high school musicals and in regional theaters across Connecticut.”

— Leah, Parent
★★★★★

“This was such a wonderful experience for my child and I am so grateful for their teacher and his program. Looking forward to the next one!”

— Chante, Parent
Read All Reviews →
Our Mission

Every child deserves a chance to
discover what they’re capable of.

Our mission has always been simple: to help students discover and develop their creativity and talents in a supportive and encouraging environment. We provide high-quality instruction, meaningful creative experiences, and the kind of mentorship that nurtures artistic growth and personal confidence.

Creativity builds confidence. Confidence builds character. And character carries students far beyond any stage they’ll ever stand on.

Ready to find the right program?

Every performer starts somewhere. Find the right fit for your child and take the first step.

See All Programs → Contact Us →