About
Prospective Students
Be Challenged.
The Firestone Theatre experience offers students a unique opportunity to develop a wide range of skills that are essential for success in a modern, creative, and collaborative educational and work environment. By actively participating in the theatre program, students are better prepared to compete and excel in various aspects of their academic and professional lives.
Through hands-on learning, students in the Firestone Theatre experience are able to directly apply their skills to other curricular subjects and practical, real-world situations. The program fosters creativity, critical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork, all of which are highly sought-after attributes in today's dynamic and competitive landscape.
By engaging in theatre, students are encouraged to explore and understand complex characters, storylines, and themes, which in turn enhances their empathy, emotional intelligence, and ability to see the world from multiple perspectives. These skills are invaluable not only in the performing arts but also in fields such as literature, history, psychology, and sociology.
Furthermore, the collaborative nature of theatre production instills a sense of responsibility, adaptability, and effective interpersonal skills in students. They learn to work as part of a team, to problem-solve creatively, and to manage their time and resources efficiently – all of which are essential for success in any professional setting.
The Firestone Theatre experience empowers students to embrace creativity, think critically, communicate effectively, and collaborate harmoniously – qualities that are vital for thriving in the modern educational and work environment. While the open enrollment period for the 2024-25 School Year may be closed, the impact of the program continues to resonate with its students, shaping them into well-rounded, capable, and resilient individuals prepared to take on the challenges of the future.
Application Process and Requirements
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Open Enrollment Period: The open enrollment period for the Akron School for the Arts Theatre Program typically takes place in October and November. During this time, prospective students are required to complete an online form to be considered for the audition process .
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Audition Requirements: All Firestone Theatre applicants must submit an online, self-tape audition monologue. Additionally, applicants must use a provided Google form to submit at least one letter of recommendation.
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Virtual Interview: As part of the audition process, an online, virtual interview will be conducted. This interview provides an opportunity for the student to express their passion for the art form and reflect on their experiences and career goals. The interview will be proctored by the theatre director and another member of the arts faculty or staff.
Enrollment and Contact Information
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Enrollment Process: Families interested in exploring APS school options outside of their neighborhood, including specialty schools and programs like the Akron School for the Arts, must open enroll. The open enrollment application period typically runs from October to January 2.
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Contact Information: For any questions regarding the application process, prospective students can reach out to Becky Duhon, the Akron School for the Arts program coordinator, at 330-761-3270
The Akron School for the Arts Theatre Program provides a platform for students to showcase their talents and passion for the arts, and the application process is designed to identify and nurture the next generation of creative and dedicated individuals.
Connor McFalls
Class of 2020
Theatre has given me the opportunity to express myself. Theatre classes encourage me to step out of my comfort zone and have confidence in myself, but also keeps me grounded and pushes me to
learn and improve.
Rylee Horowitz
Class of 2024
Firestone theater has not only made my high school experience fun but it also made it special. The community that surrounds me gives me the confidence and support to make bold acting choices both in the classroom and on stage. The Firestone Theater program fosters creativity and leadership. It truly is a special community that gives every student a voice and a space to find themselves.
I chose to come to Firestone because I wanted a theatre program that offered a supportive and creative environment where I could grow as an actress. Firestone Theatre gave me that space and so much more. I was given the opportunity to try out different acting practices and multiple areas within the theatre until I discovered what my passions and strengths were. The variety of shows that we’re able to work on at a high school level is truly amazing. I couldn’t be more grateful for my experiences here.
Alaina Tennant
Class of 2024
Jada Pledger
Class of 2022
In my short time being a part of Firestone Theatre, I have learned and grown so much in my skills. Every theatre history book you read, every monologue you break down, every light control that you operate, every set that you build, is an experience within itself. Firestone Theatre dabbles in just about everything, which gives the student a sense of freedom in their own passion. I’ve matured greatly and feel more secure in my career path.
Stanley Niekamp
Class of 2024
The Firestone Theatre community is a strong and positive group within the student body of the school. I am very proud to be a part in such a successful program. The amount of performance opportunities and exposure to many unique theatre works are atypical to any high school program in the area. Within my time in the program, I was challenged in theatre classes to dissect and deeply understand work. The experiences and training on and off stage in this program are why alumni receive so much success and what make it such an excellent place to study theatre.
India Wray
Class of 2024
I love Firestone Theater because not only did it further my passion for theater but I created a family here. I have a group of people that I will be friends with forever. It’s truly amazing the connections you make here.
After spending a year in the Firestone Theatre program, I can say that my experience has exceeded my expectations. Not only has being in the program introduced me to a great community, but I have also been given the tools to learn to be a professional in all aspects of theatre.