Welcome to the Lexington Middle School VAPA Theatre Department — where students build confidence, creativity, and community through the performing arts.

2026-2027 Season Announcement

Director's Welcome

Welcome to the Lexington Middle School VAPA Theatre Department!

I’m Mr. Nicholas C. Breiner, and it is my honor to serve as director of this growing and dynamic program. As a theatre educator, director, performer, and musicologist, I bring both professional stage experience and a deep passion for arts education into every rehearsal, classroom lesson, and production opportunity we create for our students.

My professional background includes work in educational theatre, collegiate instruction, regional performance, directing, music composition, and arts advocacy. From the classroom to the stage, my mission is to help students discover their voices, develop confidence, and build meaningful skills through the transformative power of the performing arts.

At Lexington Middle School, our VAPA Theatre Department is committed to providing students with:

High-quality theatrical training
Creative exploration and self-expression
Collaborative, hands-on learning experiences
Opportunities in performance, technical theatre, and leadership
A welcoming, inclusive environment where every student belongs

We believe theatre is more than performance — it is a pathway to confidence, empathy, discipline, communication, and lifelong creativity. Whether students are stepping onto the stage for the first time, designing behind the scenes, or discovering their artistic passions, our program is designed to challenge and support them as artists and individuals.

Through productions, coursework, cross-curricular projects, and community partnerships, we are building a program that prepares students not only for future artistic opportunities, but also for success in life.

Thank you for visiting and supporting Lexington Middle School VAPA Theatre. We are excited to create, perform, and inspire together.

Next Season at LEX (2026-2027)

Every Brilliant Thing

In September 2026, LEX VAPA Theatre proudly opens its season with Every Brilliant Thing, a powerful and deeply meaningful production presented in collaboration with our counseling department in recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. This unique theatrical experience explores themes of hope, resilience, mental health, and the small moments that make life worth living. While student opportunities for this production focus primarily on technical theatre, participants will play a vital role in bringing this important story to life through design, production, and backstage leadership. Every Brilliant Thing represents LEX VAPA’s commitment to using theatre not only as entertainment, but also as a vehicle for empathy, advocacy, and community connection. Through this special production, we aim to spark important conversations, promote awareness, and remind our audiences that even in life’s darkest moments, there are always brilliant things worth holding onto.

The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales

This fall, LEX VAPA Theatre launches its exciting “Lunch & Learn” touring series with The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales—a wildly funny, fast-paced theatrical adventure based on the beloved fractured fairytale classic by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith. Our student performers will bring these hilariously twisted storybook characters to life as they tour to our elementary feeder schools, introducing younger audiences to the magic of live theatre through laughter, creativity, and unforgettable performances. After taking the show on the road, this energetic production will return home to Lexington Middle School for special public performances. Filled with humor, heart, and imaginative storytelling, The Stinky Cheese Man is the perfect kickoff to our 2026–2027 season of reimagined fairytales.

Shrek the Musical Jr.

Closing out our 2026–2027 season in Spring 2027, LEX VAPA Theatre proudly presents Shrek the Musical Jr.—a hilarious, high-energy Broadway adventure filled with unforgettable characters, larger-than-life storytelling, and powerful messages about self-acceptance, friendship, and celebrating what makes us unique. Based on the beloved animated film and award-winning stage musical, this production offers extensive opportunities for student involvement both onstage and behind the scenes through performance, technical theatre, design, and leadership roles. As our flagship main stage musical of the season, Shrek the Musical Jr. promises to transform Lexington Middle School into a vibrant fairytale world where ogres, dragons, princesses, and misfit heroes come together in one spectacular theatrical experience. Packed with laughter, heart, and incredible music, this production represents the bold creativity, growing ambition, and student-centered excellence of the LEX VAPA Theatre program.

About the Program

The Lexington Middle School VAPA Theatre Department is a comprehensive performing arts program dedicated to developing creative, confident, and collaborative student artists through high-quality arts education. Our program offers students meaningful opportunities to explore theatre, vocal performance, technical theatre, and artistic leadership in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Students engage in a wide range of experiences, including:

Theatre classes focused on acting, performance skills, storytelling, and creative expression
Vocal music opportunities that strengthen musicianship, ensemble performance, and stage presence
Technical theatre and stagecraft education in areas such as set design, lighting, sound, costumes, props, and production management
Full-scale theatrical productions that allow students to apply classroom learning in professional-style performance settings
Student leadership roles that encourage responsibility, teamwork, and ownership of the creative process
Cross-curricular projects connecting theatre to literature, history, visual arts, music, STEM, and social-emotional learning

Our program is designed to prepare students not only as performers, but as well-rounded creators and leaders. Through acting, design, stagecraft, and collaboration, students gain valuable life skills such as communication, problem-solving, discipline, empathy, and confidence.

At Lexington Middle School, we believe the performing arts are a powerful tool for personal growth and community building. Whether on stage, behind the scenes, or in the classroom, students are encouraged to discover their unique voices, support one another, and contribute to a vibrant artistic culture. Our mission is to inspire excellence, foster creativity, and build the next generation of thoughtful artists and leaders.

Program Pillars

The Lexington Middle School VAPA Theatre Department is built upon five core pillars that provide students with a well-rounded, immersive arts education. Each area is designed to foster creativity, confidence, technical skill, and leadership while preparing students for success both on and off the stage.

Performance

Students develop acting, movement, storytelling, and stage presence through theatre coursework, rehearsals, productions, and performance-based learning. This pillar emphasizes confidence, communication, and artistic expression.

Technical Theatre

From set construction and lighting design to sound, costumes, props, and stage management, students gain hands-on experience in the essential behind-the-scenes elements that bring productions to life. Technical theatre encourages innovation, craftsmanship, and problem-solving.

Vocal Arts

Through vocal performance, musical theatre, and ensemble collaboration, students strengthen their musicianship, vocal technique, and expressive abilities. This pillar supports both individual growth and collaborative artistry.

Visual Arts

Students explore the visual storytelling components of theatre through scenic design, promotional materials, artistic displays, costume concepts, and production aesthetics. Visual arts strengthen creativity while connecting performance to design.

Student Leadership

Leadership opportunities empower students to take ownership of their artistic journey through mentorship, production responsibilities, peer collaboration, and community engagement. Students build responsibility, professionalism, and confidence as emerging leaders.

Theatre Department Calendar

News and Announcements

Once on This Island Promo

Check back soon for information about our upcoming cast party!

LEX VAPA Choir Takes the Stage with Broadway Talent

On Friday, March 20, 2026, students from Lexington Middle School’s choir program had the incredible opportunity to participate in Harrison on Broadway at the Singletary Center in Lexington—a celebration of musical theatre, collaboration, and the transformative power of the arts.

This special event featured Broadway performers Nichelle Lewis (The Wiz, Ragtime) and Noah J. Ricketts (The Great Gatsby, Frozen, Beautiful), giving our students the rare chance to learn from and perform alongside artists working at the highest levels of the profession. Our students participated in a masterclass with Ms. Lewis, where they received direct feedback, encouragement, and insight into the craft of performance.

We are especially proud to recognize Maxwell Willoughby, AnnaLee Wells, and Zoe Wells, who were featured during the masterclass experience, representing Lexington Middle School with confidence, professionalism, and artistry.

In addition to the masterclass, our students collaborated in rehearsal with peers from Harrison Elementary and Uniting Voices Lexington, a highly respected vocal ensemble that brings together young singers from across the Bluegrass region. Under the direction of acclaimed baritone and educator Dr. Michael Preacely, students experienced the power of ensemble music-making at a truly high level.

The evening also included a featured performance by Lexington Middle School students under the direction of Mr. Breiner, presenting “Inscription of Hope” by Z. Randall Stroope. This deeply moving work, built on a historic text of resilience and humanity, was performed with maturity and emotional depth that made our entire school community proud.

Experiences like this are what make arts education so vital—giving students the chance to step into professional spaces, collaborate across communities, and discover what is possible through their own voices.

We are incredibly proud of our students for representing Lexington Middle School with excellence, heart, and artistry. The future of the arts is bright!

Mr. Breiner Honored by The Kennedy Center

Lexington Middle School is proud to share that our own Mr. Breiner, Director of Theatre and Vocal Music, has been awarded a Certificate of Meritorious Achievement in Music Composition and Arrangement by the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF) for his composition of the titular song in The Open Door, a production at Bluegrass Community and Technical College.

The Open Door was a powerful devised theatre piece built through the voices, stories, and creative contributions of students. The lyrics of the music were drawn directly from student writing, making the final composition a true reflection of their experiences and artistry. This recognition is not just an award for composition—it is a celebration of student voice at the heart of the creative process.

This production was brought to life under the direction of Tim X. Davis, who was also recognized by KCACTF for his outstanding direction. His leadership helped shape a collaborative environment where student ideas could grow into something meaningful, authentic, and impactful.

We are especially grateful for our continued partnership with BCTC Theatre, whose commitment to innovative, student-centered work provides opportunities for young artists to engage in meaningful storytelling beyond the classroom.

At Lexington Middle School, we believe in the power of the arts to amplify voices, build community, and create lasting impact. We are proud to see that work recognized on a national level and even more proud of the students and collaborators who made it possible.

Cast of "The Light in the Window" on WKYT

Nicholas Breiner, Ben Carlson and Emerson Caudill - Lexington Middle School VAPA Theatre Presents "The Light The Window" on WKYT, December 3, 2025.

Gallery

Support the Program

Donations

LEX VAPA Theatre Production Committee

Sponsorship Opportunities

Volunteer Sign-ups

Merchandise

LEX VAPA Theatre
Department T-Shirt

Show your support for the Lexington Middle School VAPA Theatre Department in style with this bold, professionally designed tee! Featuring our signature black-and-gold branding and eye-catching LEX VAPA Theatre logo, this shirt celebrates creativity, performance, and school pride while offering a polished look perfect for students, families, staff, and supporters alike.

Designed for both comfort and versatility, this shirt is ideal for rehearsals, performances, spirit events, or everyday wear. Whether you’re on stage, behind the scenes, or cheering from the audience, this shirt lets you represent the growing legacy of Lexington Middle School theatre with pride.

Celebrate creativity. Support student artists. Represent LEX VAPA Theatre.

"Once on This Island"
Cast T-Shirt

Bring the magic of the islands with you wherever you go with this exclusive Once on This Island Jr. cast t-shirt! Designed to celebrate the heart, rhythm, and vibrant spirit of Lexington Middle School VAPA Theatre’s production, this softstyle tee combines comfort with show pride. Perfect for cast, crew, family, and supporters, it’s lightweight, stylish, and ideal for rehearsals, cast events, or as a treasured keepsake from an unforgettable theatrical journey. Wear your story, honor your hard work, and keep the spirit of Once on This Island Jr. alive long after the final bow.

"The Light in the Window"
Cast T-Shirt

Celebrate your role in something truly special with The Light in the Window Official Cast T-Shirt! Created to honor the artistry, dedication, and unforgettable memories of Lexington Middle School VAPA Theatre’s original production, this shirt is more than apparel—it’s a keepsake of your journey on stage. Featuring a design inspired by the show’s themes of hope, community, and resilience, this softstyle tee offers both comfort and style for rehearsals, cast events, or everyday wear. Perfect for cast, crew, and proud supporters, it serves as a lasting reminder that your light helped tell this powerful story. Shine on long after curtain call.

VAPA Theatre Quarter-Zip Pullover

Elevate your everyday style while proudly supporting student arts with the LEX VAPA Theatre Quarter-Zip Pullover. Designed for comfort, versatility, and polished school spirit, this premium pullover features the distinctive LEX VAPA Theatre logo, making it the perfect choice for parents, students, faculty, alumni, and community supporters alike. With its classic quarter-zip design, soft fleece interior, and professional embroidered branding, this pullover transitions seamlessly from rehearsals and performances to casual outings and everyday wear. Whether you’re cheering on our students, representing the department, or simply adding a sophisticated layer to your wardrobe, this piece combines comfort, durability, and theatrical pride in one standout garment. Every purchase directly supports the continued growth of the LEX VAPA Theatre Program and its mission to provide transformative opportunities in performance, technical theatre, and arts education.

LEX VAPA Theatre Department
Lexington Middle School
350 N Limestone
Lexington, KY 40508
(859) 422-0038

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