There is an innovative school turning out top-notch professional artists in McKinney, TX. Their accolades on paper are astonishing but it is what goes on off stage that makes them so unique. Ovation Academy is a safe and inclusive learning environment for any student with a passion for the performing arts.
By focusing on building relationships they equip students to be good-hearted people as well as hard-working professionals and respectable leaders. Ovation Academy of Performing Arts offers a Conservatory Academy for students in grades 6-12 who are college or career-bound actors, singers, dancers, technicians, and designers. Students attend the school Monday through Friday, as they would a traditional school. However, they are instructed and mentored in their career path in addition to completing their academic requirements through a hybrid university model structure.
The vision of Ovation Academy is to offer training that provides the technique, life skills, experiences, and connections necessary to succeed in the industry. Students are set up with a solid foundation to navigate the business of being a professional performer. Guest Artists and Master Instructors teach the industry beyond the artistry. One major component to this ground-breaking program that enables their success is Ovation’s commitment to the concept of “community”.
If you are expecting an episode of Dance Moms to be played out at Ovation Academy you will be disappointed. Ovation Academy does not allow for the stereotypical “diva and stage mom”. There are strict rules in place for both students and parents about refraining from negativity and criticism. According to Alumni Musical Theatre Major Brandon Carty, “For once, I felt safe to be myself and trust those around me full-heartedly”. Mr. Carty is now attending Pace University in New York City as a Directing Major. Their philosophy teaches that the performing arts are a community, not a competition. Although Ovation Academy has a strong reputation for dominating in competitions; they stress the importance of supporting all artists.
Students at Ovation are strongly encouraged to participate in classes, competitions, and productions outside of school in addition to their work at the Academy. Most students work professionally in the film, television, theatre, or dance industry by the time they graduate from the program. Humanitarianism is a core value taught at Ovation Academy. They believe that philanthropy is a vital part of creating a stable community. Through volunteer service, students gain empathy and life lessons, which cannot be taught in the classroom. In 2019 Ovation Academy was nominated for the “Inspire to Serve Award” by Volunteer McKinney. Additionally, their progressive approach to behavior management is one that is to be admired. Students are held accountable for their actions and taught conflict resolution and communication skills to resolve problems using critical thinking and empathy. Students are given weekly chores such as doing the dishes, taking out the trash, or vacuuming floors to encourage pride in their space and responsibility.
The school is referred to as a family and students actually look forward to going to school every single day. It is clear that Ovation Academy strives to produce knowledgeable, respectful, empathetic, and impactful artists who will contribute to their communities and to the performing arts industry. Conservatory auditions and interviews for the 2021-22 academic year are currently open. Ovation Academy additionally offers an after school Community Outreach program with classes, camps, and productions for ages 3-adult and a Homeschool Program for students in grades Kinder-12. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @Ovationapa or check out their website for more details, www.ovationapa.org.