Summer Intensives

Ballet Studio Jr. Intensive

JUN 30–JUL 18 | 9:30AM–4:00PM | Ages 9–15 | $700

The Ballet Studio is COCA’s Junior Ballet Intensive for ages 9–15. This full-day program runs Monday through Friday (with no class on July 4) for three weeks and includes classes in ballet, modern, and character techniques. The ballet curriculum focuses on pirouettes, petite allegro, adagio, and pointe (or pre-pointe when appropriate). The Boys Ballet program emphasizes jumps and turns. Students also concentrate on elements that enhance their training as performing artists, including musicality, expressive movement, and character development. One classical ballet is selected for in-depth study, and dancers learn the process of preparing for a performance, which includes both ensemble pieces and variations from the ballet. The intensive is divided into two sections based on each dancer’s ability. Participants must be at levels Ballet II, IIA, III, IV, or V (if currently enrolled at COCA) or have completed more than three years of classical ballet training. The program culminates in a free performance open to family and friends on Friday, July 18.

Audition Requirement: Auditions take place at COCA’s Regional Summer Intensive Auditions (RSIA) from January 17–19. Alternatively, you can contact Norma Gabriel, Ballet Studio Coordinator, at ngabriel@cocastl.org to submit a video audition.

Songwriting Intensive

JUL 14–18 | 9:30AM–4:00PM | Ages 14–18 | $330

Work with professional singer/songwriter/recording artist Michael Beatty to create lyrics and melodies that tell a story and reflect your own unique voice. Identify the important elements of the songwriting, recording, and performance process. Develop the expressive “star quality” of your music from concept to craft to “capturing the moment.” As you hone your own personal songwriting style, you also learn best practices for successfully sharing your music with an audience. Students create, refine, and rehearse their songs and record them at Clayton Studios. All musical genres are appreciated. Price includes field trip and all studio costs.

Interested students should contact Dr. Philip A. Woodmore at pwoodmore@cocastl.org to share your music resume and an example of your work.

Voice Intensive I

JUL 7–11 | 9:30AM–4:00PM | Ages 14–18 | $330

Elevate your singing to new heights! This program offers students the chance to revisit their personal repertoire while discovering fresh material from the latest and most celebrated works of musical theatre. The intensive emphasizes connecting to the actor within, with a strong focus on storytelling through song. Students also explore integrating physicality into their performances, enhancing their ability to bring songs to life.

Audition Requirements: Voice students who are not currently studying at COCA must submit a one-minute video excerpt of a song of their choice to Dr. Philip Woodmore at pwoodmore@cocastl.org by May 1.

Voice Intensive II

JUL 7–11 | 9:30AM–4:00PM | Ages 14–18 | $330

This one-of-a-kind intensive is developed for vocalists who have completed the COCA Voice Intensive I and are interested in more advanced study. Utilizing songs that represent a variety of musical theatre styles, we integrate method acting technique into voice and scene work to better express a deeper understanding of the emotional life of the song. We also learn effective audition techniques and identify repertoire that highlights individual strengths as singing artists. All singers leave the intensive with two to three contrasting songs prepared for their vocal portfolio. Instructors: Michael Beatty, NYC actor, singer, and Broadway vocal coach; Dr. Philip A. Woodmore, musical director, composer, singer, and Broadway vocal coach.

Audition Requirement: Voice students not currently studying at COCA should submit a one-minute video of singing to Dr. Woodmore at pwoodmore@cocastl.org by May 1.

VarietySTL & COCA Youth Musical: Seussical JR.

JUL 21–AUG 10 | 8:30AM–3:30PM | Ages 10–20

Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, and all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in Seussical JR., a fantastical musical extravaganza from Tony-winners, Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. Transporting audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus, the Cat in the Hat narrates the story of Horton the Elephant, who discovers a speck of dust containing tiny people called the Whos. Horton must protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, and he must also guard an abandoned egg that’s been left in his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird. Although Horton faces ridicule, danger, and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family, and community are challenged and emerge triumphant!

Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis and COCA (Center of Creative Arts) are once again teaming up for a fully inclusive Performing Arts program! This initiative unites kids and teens with and without disabilities, giving every child the chance to shine on stage. Participants develop new skills such as singing, acting, and dancing while building friendships and boosting their confidence. The production will feature both COCA Kids and Variety Kids, coming together to bring this fantastical story to life!

Auditions will be held on Saturday, March 8. Each child will be expected to wait patiently for their turn, follow multi-step instructions, and independently follow along with choreography, songs, and script work.

This unique theatre program will run July 21–August 8 with performances on Friday, August 8 at 7:00PM; Saturday, August 9 at 2:00PM and 5:00PM; and Sunday, August 10 at 2:00PM. Tickets will be on sale at COCA’s Box Office in June.

Audition registration opens January 6.

More Information & Register to Audition