The Arkansas Repertory Theatre and the Argenta Contemporary Theater proudly partner to offer:

PRE-PRO COMPANY | 8th-12th Grades

Pre-Professional Company (Pre-Pro) is Argenta Contemporary Theatre’s and the Arkansas Repertory Theatre’s audition-only performance program featuring the top high school-age singers, dancers, and actors in the area. This small company of pre-professional performers will meet weekly for advanced training and rehearsals. Throughout the duration of the course, students will explore challenging musical theatre solo/ensemble repertoire, advanced scene work, the business of the industry, audition & college prep, TV/Film Acting, and host special masterclasses featuring guest artists from the entertainment industry.

Additionally, all Pre-Pro company members will get the opportunity to perform in a show within Argenta Contemporary Theatre’s mainstage season. While all students in the Pre-Pro Company will be cast, the production will require further auditions for specific roles. Note: while encouraged, participation in the production is not required to participate in the course.

Led by ACT Director of Education Bridget Davis, ACT Associate Director of Education, Quinn Gasaway, and Moriah Patterson. The Pre-Professional Class will also offer multiple, instructors and guest industry professionals throughout the year, including top performing arts educators and professionals from New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

Auditions for the 2024/25 Pre-Professional Company have closed.  Information on future classes and auditions will be released at a later date.

Offered tuition-free and generously supported by the Windgate Foundation and Arvest.

HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMY | 10th-12th Grades

The Arkansas Repertory Theatre’s High School Academy is a cohort of students who have completed 10th, 11th, or 12th grade as of June. Students are selected for this six-week program through an application and interview process. Academy members rotate through various areas of operational aspects in support of our SummerStage Season – including but not limited to: scenic, costume, lighting, and sound design/production; stage management; front-of-house operations; marketing & fundraising; artistic administration. Students gain invaluable hands-on experience to prepare them for a career in the performing arts or nonprofit/small business management.

Stipend: $500 stipdend (additional need-based transportation stipends available)

Successful candidates have demonstrated interest and experience in at least one of the disciplines mentioned above.  They have a love for the performing arts, and an appreciation for their importance in our shared community culture.  They have a sense of humor, an unwavering attention to detail, and the ability to problem solve with myriad personalities and working styles.

The Rep is an equal opportunity employer and seeks to recruit and retain a diverse workforce of artists, technicians, and administrators; particularly one that reflects its community in Central Arkansas.  Applicants from populations historically underrepresented in the theatre field are strongly encouraged to apply.

Information on the Summer 2025 Academy will be released in the new year.