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!

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    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 Fundamentals of Dance ages 6-11

    Calling all dancers ages 6-11! Love to learn choreography, but missing the basics? Want to improve your dance skills before your next audition? Then this class is for you!

    Apr. 15
    4:00 PM

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    DAPA Fundamentals of Dance ages 12-18

    Calling all dancers ages 12-18! Love to learn choreography, but missing the basics? Want to improve your dance skills before your next audition? Then this class is for you!

    Apr. 15
    5:00 PM

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

    The African savannah comes to life on 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. 1 - May. 5

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    DAPA Spring Chamber Ensemble Recital

    Support the young musicians involved in the Dakota Academy of Performing Arts Spring Chamber Ensemble Recital.

    May. 14 - May. 15

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    DAPA Shakespeare Camp 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. 3
    1:00 PM

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    Dakota Academy of Performing Arts

    DAPA: LES MISÉRABLES Camp ages 12-14

    The Dakota Academy of Performing Arts (DAPA) at the Washington Pavilion is pleased to offer an exciting week of music, literature, history, acting and behind-the-scenes action.

    Jun. 10 - Jun. 14

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    DAPA Musical Theatre Camp: James and the Giant Peach Jr. ages 11-14

    This musical is sure to be a peach! Challenge yourself, make lasting friendships, rehearse and learn the importance of teamwork in this 2-week theatre camp that culminates in a full-scale musical performance.

    Jun. 17
    8:30 AM

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    DAPA Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Camp: Sally Sells Seashells ages 9-11

    Calling all singers, dancers and actors: Musical Theatre Camp is back for summer 2019!

    Jul. 8
    8:30 AM

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    Summer-Camps-DAPA

    DAPA Musical Theatre Camp at Augustana University

    Students will audition for a part in LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL and will spend the two weeks learning from and working alongside Augustana theatre professors and students on the Augustana stage. 

    Jul. 15
    1:00 PM

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    DAPA Junior Musical Theatre Camp: Swamped (AM) ages 6-8

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

    Jul. 29
    8:30 AM

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    DAPA Junior Musical Theatre Camp: Swamped (PM) ages 6-8

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

    Jul. 29
    1:00 PM

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    DAPA Summer Sing It! Camp ages 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. 12
    1:00 PM

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    Support Young Learners at the Washington Pavilion