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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    Support Young Learners at the Washington Pavilion

    DAPA Shakespeare Camp: Two Gentlemen of Verona Ages 14-18

    DAPA Shakespeare Camp: Two Gentlemen of Verona Ages 14-18

    In this two-week long intensive, join our professional directing team to explore the beautiful language and complex characters presented by William Shakespeare.

    Jun. 11
    1:00 PM

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    DAPA Musical Theatre Camp: The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever Ages 9-11

    This summer’s musical is a zany and hilarious new musical that young actors will have a blast performing!

    Jul. 9
    8:30 AM

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    DAPA Tech Theatre Camp at Augustana University

    Students ages 14 - 18 will work side by side with Augustana’s technical theatre staff and will spend the week learning the tricks of the trade from concept and design to painting and construction.

    Jul. 9
    9:00 AM

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    DAPA Musical Theatre Camp at Augustana University presents: GREASE

    DAPA Musical Theatre Camp at Augustana University

    Students will audition and will spend the two weeks learning from and working alongside Augustana theatre professors and students on the Augustana stage. This summer, we are presenting GREASE.

    Jul. 16
    1:00 PM

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    DAPA Junior Musical Theatre Camp: Sleeping Beauty KIDS (AM) ages 6-8

    Challenge yourself, rehearse and learn the importance of teamwork in a 2-week theatre camp that culminates in a full-scale musical performance.

    Jul. 30
    8:30 AM

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    DAPA Junior Musical Theatre Camp: Sleeping Beauty KIDS (PM) ages 6-8

    Challenge yourself, rehearse and learn the importance of teamwork in a 2-week theatre camp that culminates in a full-scale musical performance.

    Jul. 30
    1:00 PM

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    DAPA Summer Sing It! Camp age 8-11

    Do you love to sing? Come raise your voice with the Dakota Academy of Performing Arts (DAPA) in this choral music summer camp.

    Aug. 13
    1:00 PM

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