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 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:
- Each year, YPAS hosts college, university, or conservatory representatives who audition YPAS seniors for assignment in postsecondary performing arts programs. This day, called College and Career Day, offers our students the opportunity to talk with many colleges, universities, and conservatory representatives in order to apply to and audition for their programs and to receive special scholarships.
- The YPAS cocurricular performance program provides a comprehensive classroom learning experience coupled with hands-on performance opportunities. All students are provided the opportunity to participate in after-school performances and touring companies that perform throughout the region and travel internationally.
- To complement their arts education, students take academic classes at DuPont Manual High School.
YPAS 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
