Our Spotlight Academy is a rigorous, application-entry training program designed for students serious about pursuing the performing arts in college or professionally. At its heart, Spotlight Academy is also a leadership program, developing the discipline, confidence, and initiative students need to succeed both on stage and in life.
✅ Program Details:
Runs September 8th – May 18th
Mondays from 5:30pm–9 pm weekly
$179mo - Full commitment - Discount for payment upfront - Please email Operation@shineonperformingarts.org
✅ Who Can Apply:
Students entering 9th–12th grade or in a gap year after high school
Experienced younger students not yet in 9th grade but turning 13 this school year may also apply
Application required
A select number of students will be accepted
✅ Tracks and Training Areas Offered:
Musical Theater
Story Thru Song
Acting Methods
Acting for Film
Commercial Acting
Resume, Headshot, and Song Book Building
Dance Techniques
Vocal Anatomy and Physiology
Magic Words and Twang Farm
College Audition Prep
Broadway Now!
And much more!
✅ Academics:
We are working toward partnerships with accredited academic programs so that SOPA Austin work may count toward high school diplomas and college credits!
✅ Performances:
One full-scale Musical Production each year
A Performing Arts Revue annually
Student Artistic/Production Team Opportunities
✅ Additional Benefits:
Counts as an enrolled class for Fall, Winter, and Spring sessions when auditioning for 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
Spotlight 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.
Our SPOTLIGHT ACADEMY Students will be leading and performing INTO THE WOODS February 2026.
Students must be actively registered and participating in SPOTLIGHT Academy the 2025/2026 year to audition.