PAA: Breaking the Musical Theatre Mold

Since 2006, over 13,000 students in the Denver Metro area have selected PAA as their preferred performing arts destination. PAA delivers all the expected elements of a musical theater organization–singing, acting, and dancing. 

But the encore element that keeps students returning season after season is how PAA enriches students beyond the stage. 

PAA alum Jenna North shares how PAA is breaking the mold when it comes to youth musical theater. 

For over a decade, Jenna explored and experienced all PAA has to offer, including musical theater classes, camps, and productions. 

Jenna came to PAA for its powerful musical theater programming and stayed for the supportive community and life-long friendships. Jenna shares how PAA steals the spotlight when it comes to youth theater in South Denver. 

“PAA is where I met all of my friends and where I have had the longest sense of community. It’s amazing what can happen when you provide kids a safe space to be whoever they want while exploring the world of theatre.”

What makes PAA shine above the rest? 

In addition to enriching musical theater skills, PAA sets out to impact students beyond the stage. Jenna continues to sing from the rooftops about her experience at PAA. 

“I recommend PAA not only because of the transformative role it has had in my life but for the WAY they teach theater. Unlike other programs I’ve experienced, Dr. Jim and his team do a remarkable job at making sure each cast member is seen and valued.”

As Jenna reflected on her PAA experience, she revealed that PAA’s focus on collaboration is what brought her back time and time again. 

“Since the beginning, PAA has taught that no matter your role in the production, you are essential to the show. Every production I was a part of was a true collaborative effort, and everyone had to pull their weight”. 

PAA’s deep focus on each student beyond the stage is what makes our program a showstopper. The strong emphasis on collaboration naturally leads to a tight-knit community bound by respect and support. 

Discovering Community Behind the Curtain

Jenna describes how PAA castmates and faculty supported her during a difficult time in her life. “The love and support I received from PAA faculty and students got me through the hardest part of my life. Beyond that, I formed the most important relationships of my life!”

PAA is more than an after-school activity offering performing arts programming. It’s a supportive community that lays a solid foundation for students to succeed in all areas of life. 

PAA’s solid foundation stems from The PAA Way – an acronym that all PAA students are encouraged to commit to and practice. The acronym stands for Preparation, Attitude, and Accountability, and is the main ingredient that sets PAA apart from other youth theater organizations. 

PAA is committed to creating a safe space for learning that fosters transformative experiences and opportunities. We elevate the theater experience by providing programs that build, empower, and shape a student’s character.

Beyond the Stage

Jenna graduated from Lillehammer Institute of Music Production and Industries and started a new chapter of her life at the Los Angeles Academy of Artistry and Music Production. 

“My love for musical theater has led me to what I am doing now. Many PAA Faculty members and peers made a big impact on who I am as an adult today. Dr. Jim [and the PAA Staff] run the program with pride and integrity. I have the utmost respect and appreciation for [him and his team] and everything they have done for our community.”

Jenna’s Finale Words

We asked Jenna what one thing she wants people to know about PAA.

“That it is soooo much more than just theatre, it truly is a community. PAA is a safe space to be who you want and do what you love with your friends.”

Join 13,000 other Denver Metro students and discover youth musical theater at PAA.