McClendon Performing Arts Institute Hosts Annual Christmas Production

DECATUR – Approximately 2,000 people ushered in the 12th anniversary of the annual Christmas production, “This is the Story,” performed recently by the students of the McClendon Performing Arts Institute (M.P.A.I.) and their celebrity guest dancer, Mitchell Kelly from “So You Think You Can Dance” fame. The two-hour, action-packed, and emotionally exhilarating show, was hosted for the second year by Monica Pearson WSB-TV, Channel 2 news anchor. This was the first year “This Is The Story” was performed at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts and Community Center. It was also the first year Chick-fil-A on Wesley Chapel Road provided a level of sponsorship for the show.  Above are Mitchell Kelly, a top 10 finalist in the 8th season of “So You Think You Can Dance” (from left); Denise McClendon, artistic director of the McClendon Performing Arts Institute; Lydia Pace, marketing director for Chick-fil-A on Wesley Chapel Road, and  Pearson celebrate on stage after the final curtain call of the 2011 “This Is The Story” performed by the talented dancers of the legendary McClendon Performing Arts Institute.  (Special Photo)