Applications for CrAFT 25-26 are now open!

Creating Artists through Focused Training (CrAFT) is GCPA’s Artistic Development Program, focusing on the balance between managing training, performance, and real life responsibilities towards finding a healthy and productive path to professional and personal success. Students who participate in this program will receive training geared to increase technique in acting, dance, and vocal performance, with the aim of creating a well-rounded artist. Additionally, students will receive one-on-one career guidance with one of GCPA's professional founding staff.

CrAFT is divided into two branches to best meet the needs of its students: CrAFT Development and CrAFT College.

CLICK HERE for information on CrAFT College.

CLICK HERE for information on CrAFT Development.

CrAFT 24-25 Students singing with Broadway’s Kerry Butler at Raise the Curtain, 2024.

ELIGIBILITY

CrAFT College

This program is for students Grades 9-12 in the 2025-26 school year.
There are limited spaces available. Students are selected through an application process.  Interested students must meet the following requirements to apply:

  • Looking to gain acceptance into a collegiate performing arts program

  • Complete APPLICATION FORM.

  • Complete the following audition process:

    Please send a video submission with the following:

    16-32 bars of a musical theatre song with a backing track.

    A short monologue, 1 minute or less - only if you have one prepared.

    For dance, if you have a short combination in jazz, ballet, or musical theatre dance - please send that. A tap combination is optional. If you do not, please just send a video of you executing any of these steps you know. If you do not know the step, you do not need to include it.


  • -Jazz Pirouette

    -Chaînés - 3 in a row

    -Grand Battement a la second (to the side)

    -Balancé - 3 in a row

    -Tombé, Pas de bourrée, Glissade, Grand Jete or Saut de Chat

    OR Chasse 2x alternating, Two Runs, Grand Jete or Saut de Chat

    -Time Step (Single, Double or Triple)

    -Alternating rolling shuffles

    - 8 paradiddles

    Video auditions are accepted as UNLISTED YOUTUBE links or GOOGLE DRIVE links that must be shared with the following emails: sfox@gcpastl.org, lpagano@gcpastl.org, ppagano@gcpastl.org, ablevins@gcpastl.org

    Once we receive this submission, we may have you come in for a private voice and acting lesson. This would be free of charge and just an assessment of how she works in a classroom setting.

CLICK HERE for full CrAFT College Requirements

CrAFT graduates have been accepted into the following prestigious performing arts college programs:

CrAFT Development

This program is for students in grades 8* - 12 in the 2025-2026 school year. 8th grade applicants are only eligible if part of the CrAFT Show Starters transitional program. More information below. Starting in 2026-2027, CrAFT will be grades 9 - 12 only.

  • Have a strong desire to become a better performer

  • Complete AUDITION FORM.

  • Complete the following audition process:

    Please send a video submission with the following:

    16-32 bars of a musical theatre song with a backing track.

    A short monologue, 1 minute or less - only if you have one prepared.

    For dance, if you have a short combination in jazz, ballet, or musical theatre dance - please send that. A tap combination is optional. If you do not, please just send a video of you executing any of these steps you know. If you do not know the step, you do not need to include it.
    -Jazz Pirouette

    -Chaînés - 3 in a row

    -Grand Battement a la second (to the side)

    -Balancé - 3 in a row

    -Tombé, Pas de bourrée, Glissade, Grand Jete or Saut de Chat

    OR Chasse 2x alternating, Two Runs, Grand Jete or Saut de Chat

    -Time Step (Single, Double or Triple)

    -Alternating rolling shuffles

    - 8 paradiddles

    Video auditions are accepted as UNLISTED YOUTUBE links or GOOGLE DRIVE links that must be shared with the following emails: sfox@gcpastl.org, lpagano@gcpastl.org, actorpagano@gmail.com, ablevins@gcpastl.org

    Once we receive this submission, we may have you come in for a private voice and acting lesson. This would be free of charge and just an assessment of how she works in a classroom setting.


CrAFT Show Starters Program
Students in 8th grade have the exciting opportunity to engage in both CrAFT and Show Starters. This dual participation allows for a seamless transition between programs, unlocking their full potential for growth. By integrating the performance opportunities of Show Starters with the mentorship and training offered by CrAFT, students will develop the crucial habits and skills needed for success in the CrAFT program. Additionally, CrAFT Show Starters will take on an enhanced leadership role within the Show Starters program, nurturing the development of leadership skills and promoting team unity.

- Class Requirements to be a CrAFT Show Starter

Show Starters Class (which will count as the ELECTIVE course in CrAFT)
One Dance Class
One Acting Class
Private Voice

CLICK HERE for full CrAFT Development Requirements

CLICK HERE for more information on Show Starters. Applicants must fill out both forms but may submit the same audition material for both.

APPLICATION

Admission to the CrAFT program is by application only. Not all applicants may be accepted.

Ready to engage your CrAFT? Apply Now!