Unlocking the Secrets of Live Entertainment: MGCCC Students Showcase Their Talents

On the Mississippi Gulf Coast, a group of students at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC) are honing their skills in the art of live entertainment. In a recent showcase, these aspiring professionals put their talents on full display, showcasing their expertise in lighting, sound design, and even live music performances.

Empowering the Next Generation of Live Entertainment Professionals

Shining a Light on the Live Entertainment and Technology Program

The MGCCC Live Entertainment and Technology program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the dynamic world of live entertainment. From audio and lighting to studio production, this comprehensive program covers the essential elements of the industry. By offering hands-on experience and real-world projects, the program aims to prepare students for successful careers in this exciting field.One of the standout features of the program is the opportunity for students to showcase their talents. The recent showcase event at the iMPAC was a testament to the program's success, as students demonstrated their expertise in various aspects of live entertainment. "The program is to teach all the back line, the audio, the lighting, the studio, but there's opportunity as well for what's happening today," explains MGCCC Live Entertainment Technology Instructor Bailey Aultman.

Empowering Student Entrepreneurs and Performers

The showcase also provided a platform for students to showcase their entrepreneurial spirit and musical talents. One of the students, Bear Joyner, a former MGCCC Live Entertainment Program student, expressed the value of the program in preparing him for his career. "Already knowing things about audio and lighting, already having that knowledge and being able to show that you have the knowledge is very helpful because the employers will trust you more they will know that you know what you're doing."Another student, Dustin Ross, a former MGCCC student and member of the band Midnight Shadows, had the opportunity to record an EP "Silver in the Ashes" as a school project in the program's recording booths. "With it being a project, I was like, 'Hey, this could be my start. This would be able to push my workforce along with the band.'"

Expanding Partnerships and Internship Opportunities

As the Live Entertainment and Technology program continues to grow, Instructor Aultman is focused on expanding the program's reach and creating more opportunities for students. "The next step is reaching out to neighboring communities to get students internships and partner with local companies," she says.This strategic approach aims to bridge the gap between the classroom and the real-world industry, providing students with valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities. By fostering these partnerships, the program can ensure that its graduates are well-equipped to navigate the dynamic landscape of live entertainment and make a lasting impact in their chosen careers.With the upcoming semester starting on August 21st, the MGCCC Live Entertainment and Technology program is poised to welcome a new cohort of aspiring professionals. For those interested in exploring the world of live entertainment, this program offers a unique and transformative educational experience that can pave the way for a fulfilling and rewarding career.