The NMU Wildcat Performing Arts Academy offers comprehensive training, mentorship, and exposure in various arts disciplines such as dance, acting, vocal training, and theatre production. By providing a nurturing environment for artistic development, we aim to equip students with the skills and confidence necessary for success in the performing arts and beyond. 

 

Some of the programming offered throughout the year:

  • Wildcat Performing Arts Academy Intensive workshops and classes geared toward middle and high school students*
    • These opportunities will have varying time commitments, from an hour long class to classes spanning a full day or full weekends as well as week-long intensive experiences.
  • NMU TD Kids Pre-performance workshops geared toward youth ages 12 and younger
    • An opportunity to engage with the company prior to the show, immersing yourself in the world of theater, dance, and music through interactive activities!
  • Education Expeditions (School Outreach/Run-Outs)
    • WPAA comes to your community: school, library, community center, theatre, find a space for us to join you!
      • Doing a performance of a dance or theatre work with our students 
      • Providing 2-6 workshops encompassing theatre arts: dance, movement, voice, acting, production and more!
        • Workshops can host up to 30 students per classroom/space
  • Talk-back opportunities after select NMU Theatre and Dance productions
    • Enjoy an after performance Q&A with the company and get to know the ins and outs of what went into a production!

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Major for a Day

Major For A Day!

Major For A Day!

Start Your Story with NMU Department of Theatre and Dance!

Are you a high school student interested in studying theatre or dance in college? Be a Northern Michigan University Theatre or Dance major for a day! Spend the day attending classes, meeting the faculty and staff, hanging out with current students, and you'll even get some free merch!

***Open to High School Students: 9th-12th Grade***


This year's event will take place on Monday, October 14, 2024 from 8:45AM-5:00PM. Please register for this event using the form below! Scroll down the page to read the course descriptions and get insight to the topics you will learn about! Registration will close at 5:00PM on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.

For those who are registered, a final schedule and informational email will be sent to all registrants on Friday, October 11, 2024.

 

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Musical Theatre Intensive 2025 June 15-29

Musical Theatre Summer Intensive

A Stage Is Waiting For You!

This transformative program offers a diverse range of classes including musical theatre dance styles, choreography, acting, stage movement, and voice work which will culminate in a final performance showcase. You'll also get the chance to participate in exciting local activities throughout the week!

Dates: June 15-29, 2025

Location: Northern Michigan University - 1401 Presque Isle Ave, Marquette, MI 49855

Age: Students in 8th grade (2024-2025) through current 12th Grader (class of 2025)

Audition information will be coming soon! 

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Production & Design Intensive - June 15-29, 2025

Design & Production Summer Intensive

Endless Opportunities!

At this intensive participants will dive into the thrilling world of theatrical design and production with hands-on workshops led by seasoned professionals. Explore the technical and business sides of theatre with classes in stage and production management, technical direction, and marketing. Ignite your creativity through costume, sound, hair & make-up, lighting, properties, and set design. Then, join forces with fellow campers to bring your visions to life on the stage. Don't miss your chance to shine – enroll in the Wildcat Performing Arts Academy Summer Intensive and embark on a journey that will fuel your passion for theatre and leave you with memories to last a lifetime!

 

Dates: June 15-29, 2025

Location: Northern Michigan University - 1401 Presque Isle Ave, Marquette, MI 49855

Age: Students going in 8th grade (2024-2025) through current 12th graders (class of 2025)

 

Audition information will be coming soon! 

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Dance Intensive 2025 - July 13-27, 2025

Dance Summer Intensive

Rise to the challenge!

This transformative program offers a diverse range of classes including ballet, tap, jazz, pointe, contemporary, hip-hop, composition, choreography/repertoire, conditioning, injury prevention and treatment which will culminate in a guest performance in the North Coast Dance Festival and a final performance showcase! This intensive is designed for the intermediate-advanced-level dancer.

You'll also get the chance to participate in exciting local activities throughout the week!

Dates: July 13-27, 2025

Location: Northern Michigan University - 1401 Presque Isle Ave, Marquette, MI 49855

Age: Students in 8th grade (2024-2025) through current 12th graders (class of 2025)

 

Audition information will be coming soon!