P
remier Performing Arts school has been enriching
students in the arts of dance, acting and music in
Monroeville and surrounding areas for many years.
The school is co-owned by Kim Meyers Merge and Jenn
Probola, both graduates of Point Park University with degrees
in dance. They have each danced their entire lives—Kim in
Pittsburgh and New York City and Jenn in Rochester, NY, and
Pittsburgh. Both are married with families and live in the east
suburbs of Pittsburgh.
Formerly the Larry Cervi School of Performing Arts—co-
owned by Merge for 28 years and Probola for seven years—the
school became Premier Performing Arts when Larry Cervi
retired two years ago. Although located in Monroeville,
students come from Franklin Regional, Penn Trafford, Plum,
Norwin, Kiski, Woodland Hills, Penn Hills as well as the
Gateway School District. The arts school offers classes for
students age 3 through adult in dance, singing, acting, musical
theater and piano.
“All instruction at Premier Performing Arts is offered by
professionals—we don’t have student teachers,” says Merge.
“Our students have been accepted into the most prestigious
dance and musical theater collegiate programs in the country.
Jenn and I believe in artistry, creative expression and the
dedication it requires to achieve classical technique.”
Twelve teachers share their expertise with students. Annual
dance recitals and music showcases are scheduled, although not
mandatory. The school does not participate in competitions
but offers master classes with industry experts, providing
excellent training in the arts with many various performing
opportunities.
“This is an amazing studio with great teachers and students,”
says Heather Bungard. “My son has danced with Premier
Performing Arts for several years, and so have I—as both a
child and an adult. When my son first showed an interest in
the stage, I knew this was the place to go. I highly recommend
this studio to anyone interested in the performing arts.
They have something for everyone including all-
boys classes.”
Giving back to the community is important
to Premier faculty and students, who donate
through various endeavors many times a year.
Recently, a holiday-themed fundraiser was
held at the Greensburg Garden & Civic
Center for the Leukemia and Lymphoma
Society, and last year a Halloween
fundraiser benefited St. Jude’s
Children’s Hospital. “It’s important for
us to share our talents and give back to
the community,” says Probola.
“Our students have been accepted into
the most prestigious dance and musical
theater collegiate programs in the country.
Jenn and I believe in artistry, creative
expression and the dedication it requires
to achieve classical technique.”
“I often recommend the school to my friends,” says Amy
Sheridan. “My daughters have flourished in the positive
environment, developing their skills and love of dance with
teachers who are highly qualified and compassionate.”
Premier Performing Arts has several performances scheduled
for 2019, including an acting, voice and musical theater
showcase on May 26. Gateway High School is the site of the
school’s dance recital, which will be held on June 8. Premier is
also planning a summer musical theater camp, a voice cabaret,
as well as a full six-week schedule of classes.
“Our school is truly unique in that we share our love for
the arts in a professional, non-competitive environment,”
says Merge. “We look forward to doing what we love in
a community that we love each and every day.”
Premier Performing Arts operates Monday through Saturday.
A complete schedule of classes and information can be found
on the school’s website: premier-performing-arts.com. n
Pictured L to R: Caitlin Dolhi, Elyse Wilson, Evelyn Chambers,
and Brynn Grominski
PENN HILLS
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SPRING 2019
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