The Youth Performing Arts School (YPAS) at duPont Manual High School is the most comprehensive performing arts high school in Kentucky, where students have the distinct opportunity to train, learn, and nurture their talent to become tomorrow’s artists. No tuition is required; however, students must audition to attend. Students are selected to attend by a competitive process that evaluates achievement test scores, academic achievement, personal essays, teacher recommendations, performing arts auditions, and an on-site writing prompt.
YPAS is one of only two schools in Kentucky to provide high school students with majors in the performing arts. Students team up with faculty, parents, professional artists, and community members to develop, perfect, and practice their craft in artistic experiences uncommon to any regular program school setting. Students’ success is founded on commitment and discipline applied to the artistic program, and success is enhanced by the school’s rich diversity and understanding of the creative spirit.
School Highlights
- College and Career Day
- Annual event
- College, university, or conservatory representatives who audition YPAS seniors for assignment in postsecondary performing arts programs
- Provides opportunities to talk with colleges, universities, and conservatory representatives about program applications and auditions and to receive special scholarships
- YPAS cocurricular performance program
- Comprehensive classroom learning experience coupled with hands-on performance opportunities
- Opportunities for all students to participate in after-school performances and touring companies that perform regionally and internationally
- Offers academic classes taken at duPont Manual High School that complement arts education
Majors
The districtwide programs at YPAS are similar to university programs in structure, scope, and instruction. Students are immersed in intensive and expansive professional training on stage and in the classroom that prepares them for college, conservatory, and beyond.
- Band: Wind and Percussion Instruments
- Dance
- Design and Production (Technical Theatre)
- Guitar
- Musical Theatre
- Orchestra: Stringed Instruments
- Piano
- Theatre (Drama/Acting)
- Vocal Music
District Map.pdf