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 2024. 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 2024 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.

This program is offered through the support of The Windgate Foundation and in partnership with the City of Little Rock’s Community Programs.

Applications for the Summer 2024 Academy are now closed.  Information on the Summer 2025 Academy will be released in the new year.

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 PrePro 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.

Dates: September 17th – November 12th, 2024
Day/Time: Tuesdays from 5:15pm – 8:45pm
Grades: 8th – 12th
Location: ACT II, 315 Main Street, North Little Rock
Instructors: 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 our 2024/25 Pre-Professional Company will be held by appointment only on Saturday, August 10th, 2024 at Argenta Contemporary Theatre. To reserve an audition appointment, and to obtain a list of audition requirements please email bdavis@argentacontemporarytheatre.org.

Offered tuition-free and generously supported by The Windgate Foundation.

While there is no tuition cost associated, a strict attendance and participation policy will be adhered to and any student unable to fulfill their contract will be released as a company member. Any exceptions to attending class must be approved by ACT Director of Education, Bridget Davis.