TURNERS FALLS — After a successful inaugural performance last June, the Franklin County Teen Performing Arts Showcase will return to the Shea Theater Arts Center on Friday, May 23.

The showcase, which is hosted by The Brick House Community Resource Center, will feature teen performers from across the county and original choreography by 17-year-old Ollie Pawell.

The origins of the showcase come from dance teacher Anna Hendricks’ desire to support Pawell’s goal of performing in front of audiences and peers, while also drawing inspiration from a similar performance showcase in Hampshire County.

To get the showcase off the ground, Hendricks and Pawell teamed up with The Brick House to organize the event, collecting sponsorships and donations from local organizations and businesses.

Pawell said the performance last year achieved everything they’d hoped it would and received positive feedback from the audience. One thing Pawell hopes to improve upon in the second iteration, though, is to have more connection between the performers ahead of the show.

“We learned that there needs to be more space to get to know each other,” he explained, adding that this year, there will be a lunch with all the performers on the tech day so they can interact.

Another addition is there will be a stage manager, Atticus Belmonte, who will help ensure the behind-the-scenes operations run smoothly.

Many performers are returning after performing at the inaugural showcase last year. Pawell said performances will feature solo acts as well as group dance numbers, including a performance of his choreography to the song “Punish” by Ethel Cain.

Pawell said the showcase offer teens an opportunity to pursue independence in choosing lighting, staging, props and more.

“It’s really empowering to show that kind of trust in the kids,” Hendricks agreed.

Friday’s show will start at 7 p.m. at the Shea Theater, 71 Avenue A. Donations are encouraged, but not required.

Erin-Leigh Hoffman can be reached at ehoffman@recorder.com or 413-930-4231.