Musical Theater is Different at PAA

Youth Theater Done Differently

PAA shows, camps, and classes may begin by teaching students proper pitch, pirouettes, and performance techniques. But by the end of each session, students walk away with more than fine-tuned performing arts skills.

At PAA, musical theatre is different, and it begins with our acronym – PAA. Before belting the first tune or bringing out jazz hands, students and instructors review the PAA Way and commit to each action. 

The PAA Way stands for Preparation, Attitude, and Accountability.

 These simple, yet powerful three words are the backbone of PAA’s mission to create community, build character, and inspire excellence.

PAA aims to transform our community and world through the PAA Way and develop a generation of students who recognize their self-worth, happily serve their community, and appreciate the value of individual differences.

“You have taught me so much about theatre and performance, but also about character and what it means to be a good person. I know I would not be who I am today without PAA.” – PAA Student

The PAA Way

Let’s complete a read-through of the PAA Way:

Preparation: Practicing your part at home, bringing all necessary materials, being responsible for assigned parts, reviewing previous instructions, and wearing appropriate attire for rehearsal.

Preparation means showing up and fulfilling the duties you signed up for, regardless of whether you’re in the lead role, ensemble, or backstage. Students learn the importance of their role within a community and how they can make a difference just by showing up.

“By the end of the process, I no longer felt that sense of insecurity because I was simply focused on my role. I had my job to do, to play my role and play it well, and that comparing myself to the others was not the right course of action.”- PAA Student

Attitude: Leading with kindness, sharing positivity, supporting friends, and respecting others demonstrates a great attitude.

Translation…Bring the best version of yourself to production, class, or camp every day. Leading with kindness and extending a supportive hand can turn difficult situations into memorable moments of growth.

“[Since my show], I have tried to bring that same support and kindness that everyone showed into my daily life; to move with love and ensure that everyone feels appreciated for simply being them because that is what the cast did for me.” – PAA Student

Accountability: Being responsible for what you do and who you are within the PAA community demonstrates accountability.

Simply put, be responsible for your actions and be a student of your word.

“I have never seen a cast that supported everyone the way [my] cast did. No matter what, I saw people congratulating one another when they did well, comforting each other when something went wrong, and showing such kindness and love to everyone they came into contact with.” – PAA Student

Youth Theater Beyond the Stage

Although the PAA Way focuses on a student’s role within musical theater, the lessons carry well beyond the stage. The PAA Way extends to all relationships, including family, friends, and co-workers.

At PAA, it is not about making the next Broadway Star…it’s about creating a connected community, building character, and inspiring excellence.

That’s not to say we don’t have some incredibly talented students. We do! But instead of focusing on the extraordinary talent in our midst, we choose to emphasize each individual’s contribution within the community circle, and how critical each part is for the theatrical experience to succeed.

“Through the classes, intensives, and shows I have taken part in, I’ve gained so much more confidence in myself as a person and an actor.” – PAA Student

Be a part of the PAA Way and Check out PAA’s Summer Theater Camp offerings.