PROGRAMS
We are dedicated to sharing the power of the performing arts with the entire community.
The Performance Academy utilizes creative and innovative partnerships as a primary tactic in making healing arts accessible to communities that suffer from limited access. Too often, the arts are treated as a privilege or reward as opposed to a preventative measure or educational enrichment. It is because of this harmful narrative that students attending alternative schools, drug rehabilitation programs, incarcerated youth, and students on house arrest are not provided artistic exposure. Our impact on the community we touch is a palpable and evident presence in our day-to-day experience.
Demographics
Our artistic professionals come from a variety of backgrounds and our training artists are an assortment of racial and social contrast. Art making is about the human experience and we take care to ensure we promote the inclusion of all cultural and ethnic groups within our education, performances, students, material and audience.
Creating robust programs centered around cultural diversity, we have a unique opportunity to engage a wide variety of people throughout the community. In highlighting programs that emphasize racial and cultural themes, TPA provides a platform for works by a broad range of artists with diverse backgrounds and experiences. We will continue to expand our artistic genres to connect with the diverse populations that call Jacksonville home, creating an opportunity for them to experience programs that are relevant to them in a more personal way.

Outreach
We engage with diverse audiences through creating audience development programs that attract attendees from different social and cultural backgrounds. Our performances are held through out the year in a myriad of venues, including Hemming Park, Art Awards Events, Public Concerts and private events. We have partnered with many other non-profit organizations to provide entertainment and/or classes to their population, including Episcopal Children’s Services, Wolfson Children’s Hospital, Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Family Support Services, Heal Every Autistic Life and Daniel Kids.
Collaboration
We pride ourselves in our ability to forge relationships with local art instructors, students and organizations. The Performance Academy currently houses ten arts groups from various fields of the performing arts.

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Creative Genius
- Daily after-school sessions combining arts education with academic support and life skills development.
- Mentorship from professional artists and educators
- Focus on goal setting, time management, and personal growth.
- Artistic Elements offered: Visual Arts, Music Production, Dance, Film, Fashion & Design, Poetry

The Opportunity Project
- Career exploration program with professional guest speakers
- Community engagement initiative connecting youth with local businesses and organizations.
- Small cohorts explore individuals’ aspirations and opportunities and create a path to follow.

Performance arts workshop
- Improv | Acting Techniques | Scene Study | Monologues | Acting Exercises
- Acting for the Camera Overview | Stage Directions and more!
- Lunch and daily snacks and drinks provided.
- Camp begins every day at 9:00am and concludes promptly at 3:00 pm.
- Actors have four to five daily sessions, lunch and two 10-minute breaks
- Extended Day from 3-5PM offered for $35 per day or $125 per week
- Code of Conduct required to be signed by all students and parents
- All students must audition in advance of the camp

Truth & Proof
- Bi-monthly events with teen stage performances and creative competitions
- Special outside performances with teens from our program displaying their unique giftings.
- Quarterly showcase to the community of expression of confidence and artistic expression

Shake/Sphere
- Writing workshops based on comparing classical literature to current pop culture.
- Individuals author poems, songs, or rap to share their truths.
- Culminates in a book signing and oral recital of original writings, increasing the teens’ self-esteem and confidence.

This is ME
- Cultural arts and educational experience developed for teens in out-of-home care.
- 3-week camp culminating in a final performance on stage
- Teens tell their life stories past, present, or future - through a new-found art form.
All in a magical atmosphere, complete with vibrant colors, draped fabrics, and that “Alice in Wonderland” vibe.

Arts Bazaar
- Unique Art & Vendors: Explore one-of-a-kind artworks and connect with passionate creators.
- Enthralling Entertainment: Be captivated by live music, dancers, acrobatics, and even fire performers!
- Avant-Garde Fashion Fun: Show off your creativity with bold, expressive outfits and join the runway contest.
- Immersive Experiences: Silent discos, Saxophone in the Secret Garden, and incredible art installations await.
- Special Performances: Enjoy poetry, music, and dance from talented past Performers Academy students.
- Dining Under the Stars: Your ticket includes a delicious dinner, a drink, and dessert. VIP tickets include unlimited drinks and exclusive lounges.
All in a magical atmosphere, complete with vibrant colors, draped fabrics, and that “Alice in Wonderland” vibe.