Dakota Academy of Performing Arts

The Dakota Academy of Performing Arts (DAPA) at the Washington Pavilion is a program designed to inspire young theatre and music 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 accomplished musicians and theatre professionals mentoring and teaching for DAPA, students are motivated to perform with passion, dedication and excellence. Students prepare to give professional-level music and theatre performances in the community throughout the year.

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

    William from Sleeping Beauty

    Performance Series

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

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    Actors in Color Stories

    Plays for Living

    Engage with the community in the Plays for Living Company.

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    Student Playing Base

    Summer Opportunities

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

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    Upcoming Auditions

    Take the stage and audition for our DAPA music and theatre programs!

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    If you’re looking for more than theatre and music 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 music or theatre.
    • Seeking a positive social network that builds confidence and self-esteem
    • Fully dedicated to practice and rehearsals each week.
    • 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: CNA Surety, Dillion Trust, Egger Steel, First National Bank, Graco Foundation, Modern Woodmen, Sioux Valley Energy.

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    DAPA at the Washington Pavilion presents: MAGIC IN ME

    MAGIC IN ME emphasizes how special each person is. Equipped with nothing more than a toy shovel and pail, little Do-Nothing Dale appears to be a wizard in name only. Laughed at and excluded by her colleagues, Magnificent Mervin and Wonder Wanda, Dale sets out on a journey to find her own “little bit of magic.”

    Feb. 15 - Feb. 16

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    DAPA at the Washington Pavilion presents: FRECKLEFACE STRAWBERRY THE MUSICAL

    With the help of her loveable schoolmates, including an amazingly talented ballerina, a cutie jock, a charming ditz and a totally kooky teacher, Freckleface learns that everyone is different – and that's what makes everyone special.

    Mar. 21 - Mar. 24

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    DAPA at the Washington Pavilion presents: DISNEY’S THE LION KING JR

    The African savannah comes to life on your stage with Simba, Rafiki and an unforgettable cast of characters as they journey from Pride Rock to the jungle... and back again, in this inspiring, coming-of-age tale.

    May. 2 - May. 5

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    Support Young Learners at the Washington Pavilion