About Us
Jeff and Jan Van Paris have been involved in musical theater most of their lives. Jeff has been directing and choreographing throughout Indiana for over 35 years, while also performing in many community and professional productions. While raising two children Jan has been there to not only support her family, but also appear on stage, work backstage, and share her love of theatre with so many. Both educators, now retired, Jeff and Jan always wanted to start a dance and theater school. After meeting Craig Whitcombe, a former Disney actor/producer/director the three decided to take the plunge and open The Biz Academy of Musical Theatre.
Through hundreds of working hours and a passion for the arts, The Biz has taught thousands of kids. The Biz offers classes in Dancing, Singing, Acting, and a robust season of musicals. Jeff and Jan are excited to share their love of the arts with the youth in the area!
2012
Jeff, Jan, and Craig open the doors to The Biz Academy in Avon, IN
2012
The first full production, Beauty and the Beast Jr.; 73 young performers joined Craig and Jeff at Harmony Baptist Church.
2014
From the brainchild of Julie Kays and Jan Van Paris, My “Time to Shine” debuts with Cinderella Jr.
2018
Jekyll and Hyde, the first full stage production, was held at Danville Community High School Auditorium.
2018
Annie, the first full adult and children show at The Biz.
2019
The Biz expands to The Biz Too.
Rent The Biz Too
ROOM FOR YOUR CREATIVITY
The Biz Too! is available to rent as an exciting alternative to more conventional conference facilities and reception centers, hosting conferences, events, or product launches.
PHONE / (317) 435-2629
EMAIL / thebizacademy@gmail.com
Staff & Instructors
The Biz wouldn’t run without the help of many talented staff, instructors, and volunteers. Countless hours go into every production, class, and workshop. Here are just a few of the many individuals that make the Biz an amazing place to learn and love musical theater.
DIRECTORS
DIRECTOR & CHOREOGRAPHER / Jeff Van Paris
DIRECTOR & MUSIC DIRECTOR / Allison Williamson
MUSIC DIRECTOR / Renee Maynard
MY TIME TO SHINE / Julie Kays
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
MARKETING MANAGER / Amanda Hemmert
WEBSITE MANAGER / Jamison Hemmert
TEACHERS
ACTING / Caitlyn Steckbeck
ACTING / Grant Steckbeck
DANCE & PRESCHOOL / Jeff Van Paris
DANCE / Doug King
DANCE / Rachelle Macavage
DANCE WORKSHOPS / Alexandria Van Paris
VOCAL / Allison Williamson
VOCAL / Renee Maynard
VOCAL / Matthew Hougland