The STAGES Performing Arts Academy furthers the organization’s mission by equipping students with theatre skills while directly linking them to professional productions, community initiatives, and arts education resources throughout the St. Louis area.
According to Andrew Kuhlman, executive producer of STAGES St. Louis, the academy is pivotal to the organization’s overarching aim of creating “theatre that brings us closer.”
The Quick Answer
The STAGES Performing Arts Academy advances the organization’s mission by nurturing young talents, connecting them with professional theatre experiences, and broadening access to arts education within the St. Louis community.
- The academy aids students in honing their acting, performance, and creative abilities through professional arts education.
- Participants acquire hands-on theatre experience, including chances to perform alongside seasoned actors.
- Outreach initiatives enhance access to theatre education throughout the St. Louis region.
- Arts education fosters confidence, creativity, and community ties for students.
Connecting Students to Professional Theatre
A highlight of the academy’s connection to STAGES’ mission is the chance for students to engage directly in productions.
During the 2026 season, celebrating STAGES St. Louis’ 40th anniversary, four academy students will join the full ensemble in the performance of Come From Away. “They won’t just come on stage for a brief moment and then leave,” Kuhlman explains. “They will be integral members of the complete ensemble.”
Students undergo the same preparation as professional actors, including auditions, interactions with the artistic team, and preparation of performance materials. “What I cherish most about the academy,” Kuhlman shares, “is that we are demonstrating to students what it means to be a professional working actor—and that it is achievable.”
Expanding Access to Arts Education
In addition to its classes and camps held at the Kent Center for Theater Arts in Chesterfield, the academy furthers STAGES’ mission via outreach programs throughout the region. Through Emerson Access the Arts, STAGES collaborates with schools and community organizations to provide theatre education to students who might not otherwise have access to performing arts programs.
In 2025 alone, the academy partnered with over 25 outreach organizations, delivering programs at little or no cost to participating schools and community centers. These initiatives enable more young people to experience the creativity, teamwork, and confidence that theatre can cultivate.
Investing in the Next Generation of Artists
Kuhlman believes that arts education leaves a lasting impression that extends well beyond the classroom. He vividly recalls his first experience in a school production—playing Santa Claus in a kindergarten Christmas pageant. “That was one of the best nights of my life,” he reminisces.
Such experiences often motivate students to pursue the arts further. “I continued to invest in theatre, and theatre kept investing in me,” Kuhlman reflects.
This same philosophy drives the STAGES Performing Arts Academy today. “It’s our duty to say yes to students,” he emphasizes. “To embrace opportunities for them and continually provide more ways for them to thrive.”
By nurturing young talents and broadening access to arts education, the academy helps ensure that theatre continues to unite individuals throughout the St. Louis community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kuhlman addresses common questions regarding the STAGES Performing Arts Academy and arts education:
What is the STAGES Performing Arts Academy? It is an arts education initiative that offers classes, camps, and training opportunities for students interested in theatre and performance.
What types of programs does the academy offer? The academy provides acting classes, musical theatre training, performance camps, and outreach programs that introduce students to the theatre arts.
How does arts education benefit students? It fosters creativity, communication skills, confidence, and collaboration while enhancing students’ appreciation for the performing arts.
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This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of STAGES St. Louis. For additional information about the season and to purchase tickets, visit stagesstlouis.org.
