Act One Academy is SOPA Austin’s school-year training program designed for young performers ages 10–15 who want to deepen their performing arts education in a structured, supportive environment.

This program offers focused, high-quality training in acting, voice, movement, and stagecraft to help students develop the skills, discipline, and confidence they’ll need to succeed in Spotlight Academy or Main Stage productions in the future.

✅ Program Details:

  • Runs September 8th - May 18th

  • Mondays from 5:30-8:00pm

  • Weekly classes with dedicated instructors

  • $149mo - 4 month (Sept-January and/or January-May) or 8 month commitment. Discount if paid in full upfront. Email for information.

  • We will accept new participants September 8- September 29 and again January 5-January 26

  • Ages 10-15 may participate. We will consider younger students (ages 8 and 9) with approval from Director.

  • No separate production; emphasis is on skill-building and ensemble training. However, students will have a special audition to be cast in our Main Stage Plus play in the Winter. They will have first shot at being cast before the production is opened to the public.

✅ What Students Gain:

  • Strong foundation in acting, singing, and movement

  • Technique-focused training that goes beyond single-session classes

  • Readiness for auditions and participation in Main Stage productions

  • Confidence, teamwork, and discipline in a fun, encouraging setting

Act One Academy is perfect for committed young performers ready to grow beyond recreational classes and take the next step in their performing arts journey!

✅ Tracks and Training Areas Offered:

  • Musical Theater

  • Choosing Audition Materials - Monologues and Songs

  • Acting Methods

  • Acting for Film

  • Resume, Headshot, and Song Book Building

  • Dance Techniques

  • Vocal Anatomy and Physiology

  • Magic Words and Twang Farm

  • Improv!

  • And much more!

✅ Additional Benefits:

  • Counts as an enrolled class for Fall, Winter, and Spring sessions when auditioning for Elevate or Main Stage Productions

  • Excellent leadership opportunities within the Academy and across SOPA Austin programs

  • Builds teamwork, initiative, and professional etiquette in a supportive but challenging environment

  • Students in Act One will qualify for a special “pre-audition” to be considered for a role in our Main Stage Plus Production of A WRINKLE IN TIME.

ACT ONE Academy gives students the chance to learn, grow, lead, and perform at a higher level than single-class training or shows alone allow—preparing them to excel in the arts at the next level and beyond.