Dakota Academy of Performing Arts

Dakota Academy of Performing Arts

The Dakota Academy of Performing Arts (DAPA) at the Washington Pavilion is a program designed to inspire young theatre students in the Sioux Falls area to practice perfect, play hard and perform better than they ever thought they could.

DAPA is designed for students who desire a creative, challenging atmosphere with direct instruction and ensemble learning. With a team of theatre professionals mentoring and teaching for DAPA, students are motivated to perform with passion, dedication and excellence. Students prepare to give professional-level theatre performances in the community throughout the year.

There are many ways to get involved with The Dakota Academy of Performing Arts!

DAPA Youth Performances

DAPA Youth Performances

Support our talented actors; Subscribe to the Youth Performance Series!

Plays For Living

Plays For Living

Engage with the community in the Plays for Living Company.

Summer Opportunities

Summer Opportunities

Calling all singers, dancers, musicians and actors: sign up for summer camps!

Upcoming Auditions

Upcoming Auditions

Take the stage and audition for our DAPA theatre programs!

If you’re looking for more than theatre lessons and have a real love for the arts, DAPA at the Washington Pavilion was created for you!

We would love for you to join us if you are:

  • Between the ages of 6-18 with an interest in theatre
  • Seeking a positive social network that builds confidence and self-esteem
  • Fully dedicated to practice and rehearsals each week
  • Looking to not only meet expectations but exceed them
  • Ready to work and play hard in a fun, creative environment

Thank you to our generous sponsors: 

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Sioux Valley EnergySercl-Family-Fund.pngSioux Falls Morning Optimists  

Zoup! Wingstop

DAPA Improv Academy

Ages 11-18. This class will focus on team building, active listening and how to think on your feet – all in a fun, fast-paced and pressure-free environment.

Sep 26
10:00 AM

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Disney's THE ARISTOCATS KIDS

In the heart of Paris, a kind and eccentric millionairess wills her entire estate to Duchess, her high-society cat, and her three little kittens.

Oct 23 - Oct 24

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ELEPHANT & PIGGIE’S “WE ARE IN A PLAY!”

In this vaudevillian romp, Elephant and Piggie sing and dance their way through plenty of pachydermal peril and swiney suspense.

Nov 11 - Nov 15

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ELF THE MUSICAL JR.

Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity.

Dec 16 - Dec 20

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Wright! Celebrate the Beginning of Flight

The epic story of the Wright brothers and their flying machine comes to life in modern-day rap, song and narration.

Feb 12 - Feb 13

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ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA THE MUSICAL

The story of an extraordinary girl who dares to take a stand and change her own destiny.

Mar 24 - Mar 28

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Disney’s THE LITTLE MERMAID JR.

In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home — and her fins — behind and live in the world above.

Apr 28 - May 2

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Support Young Learners at the Washington Pavilion