Academy Home
FOR THE VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS
A NEW STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE
2011-2012
The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith Academy of the Arts is the premier center for the visual and performing arts. The Academy offers private and class instruction in music,theatre, dance, and art to children and youth of all ages and skill levels from preschool to high school.
The mission of the Academy is to be a leader in the visual and performing arts, and serve as a role model for young people. We are committed to providing exceptional training through a learning-centered environment with the goal of improving students both artistically and academically.
Emphasis is placed upon developing life skills such as social interaction, team work, communication, and creativity. Students are encouraged to express themselves as unique individuals, and positive self-esteem is instilled in each student.
Students in our program enjoy the privilege of using the excellent teaching, performing, and learning facilities that UA Fort Smith has to offer. Each semester, students also have wonderful opportunities to perform. Included are plays, musicals, solo recitals, exhibits, master class performances with guest artists, tours, and concerts with UA Fort Smith and community music ensembles. Through our programs we are currently reaching nearly 500 children and youth yearly for the arts.
Check out our distinguished faculty. They have trained in some of the finest conservatories in the world and perform as soloists, in chamber ensembles, in Broadway productions, and in opera. The faculty is deeply grounded in education and is committed to teaching children and youth.
Each year the Academy presents the ShowTime Series, a yearly series that offers musical theatre productions presented by students who are participating in our musical theatre companies. This season's shows include Annie, Jr., Thoroughly Modern Millie, High School Musical, Jr., and Oklahoma.
The Academy of the Arts is also pleased to present the Distinguished Artists Series, a concert series that includes masterpieces presented by artists of national distinction. This series not only promotes the classical performing arts, but also allows our Academy students a wonderful and rare opportunity to work under these talented artists during their stay.
The Academy is pleased to offer a wide variety of programs. Included in this season's line-up is preschool Musikgarten, art classes, private one-on-one music instruction, instrumental ensembles including flute choirs, African drum ensemble, string ensemble, wind ensemble, and youth honors orchestra, a theatre program for ages 5 - 18, and a choral program for ages 8 - 18. Don't miss these exciting opportunities!
