Evolved from the non-profit Plano Children's Theater, the organization rebranded to NTPA in 2015 while launching its broader mission to expand its reach and impact. With five locations and 10 theater companies, NTPA serves around 11,000 students annually.
“We created the NTPA Academy in 2018 in response to students expressing a desire to advance in their career in the performing arts,” NTPA CEO Darrell Rodenbaugh said. “Through focus groups with scores of parents, we developed the concept of the NTPA Academy. We wanted to provide a flexible learning environment that enables youth with a passion for performing arts to learn and deepen their skills while they pursue auditions, commercial and other work, while maintaining their core academic success.”
The NTPA Academy serves students in grades six through 12, providing a unique environment for younger participants to explore theater while offering older students conservatory-style training. With seven certifications in areas like acting, dance, musical theater, technical theatre, film and television and more, students can customize their education to fit their interests and goals.
NTPA also provides core academic studies through online systems, allowing students to balance their artistic ambitions with their academic responsibilities.
Central to NTPA’s educational philosophy is a three-pillar model: Educate, Explore and Experience. The first pillar focuses on core academic success providing academic support through coaching, tutoring and other support to keep students academically on track. The second pillar gives students hands-on experience in their performing arts disciplines in an immersive classroom environment. The final pillar focuses on real-world experience, with access to NTPA’s over 200 productions annually, allowing students to frequently take the stage and refine their performance skills.
“We give students the opportunity to learn, take risks and fail in a safe space, where they can get constructive feedback and know we are going to help them grow,” said Riley Madlock, NTPA Academy Head of School.
The NTPA Academy places a strong emphasis on societal and life skills throughout its programs. By producing live shows and integrating feedback and coaching reviews, the Academy prepares students for real challenges and growth.
“When our students leave, their performance skills are battle-hardened and tested; they have experienced the challenges of the stage and have overcome them,” Rodenbaugh said.
The success of the NTPA Academy is reflected in its numerous awards and inspiring student accomplishments. Last year, the Academy received 18 high school musical theater nominations, with student Sean Forman winning the prestigious Schmidt and Jones 2024 Best Actor award.
Recent alumni and current students have also made impressive strides, landing roles in national tours, such as “Annie” and “Jagged Little Pill,” as well as starring appearances on prominent television series, such as the Apple TV+ family series, “Me.”
The NTPA Academy not only celebrates individual achievements but also nurtures a supportive community where every student can thrive. This commitment to inclusivity helps cultivate a diverse range of talents, allowing students to pursue their artistic ambitions without barriers.
“At our heart, we are a nonprofit organization and a community resource, and we want people of all capabilities, strengths and economic backgrounds to join us,” Rodenbaugh said. “We are generous with our scholarships and have yet to have a situation where financial constraints prevented someone from being part of our program. If students have the passion and talent, we work with families to ensure they can participate in the Academy.”
For those interested in the transformative opportunities offered by the NTPA Academy, it is essential to explore their programs and discover how they can support young artists. Whether a student aims to enhance their skills or a parent is seeking the right program for their child, the NTPA Academy stands out as an excellent choice for aspiring performers.
Visit the NTPA Academy website to learn more about their offerings, upcoming auditions and scholarship opportunities.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
