CenterStage Academy provides an immersive, enriching theater experience for children of all ages, experiences and backgrounds. It’s an inclusive and dynamic program that offers students the opportunity to develop skills, talents and imagination with positivity and collaboration. We build a community of acceptance while providing a fun and safe environment for self-discovery and development. Our students complete their experience by presenting a full-length, fully produced musical theatre production on our stage for their friends, family and our community.
2026 Spring Programs
Registration is closed
Disney’s The Lion King KIDS
Grades 2-5
Rehearsals begin:
Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026
Performance dates:
March 12, 14 & 15, 2026
Synopsis:
Disney’s The Lion King has captivated the imagination of audiences around the world, and now you have the opportunity to produce this one-of-a-kind musical in your community. Bring the African savanna to life on your stage with Simba, Rafiki and an unforgettable cast of characters as they journey from Pride Rock to the jungle and back again in this inspiring, coming-of-age tale.
The Lion King KIDS features classic songs from the Broadway musical and animated feature film, including “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King,” “He Lives in You,” and “Hakuna Matata.” Young performers will also get the chance to learn a wide range of new theatrical skills—such as mask-making and puppetry—encouraging them to explore this beloved story with creativity and pride.
Instructors:
Alex Roby & Mimi Housewright
Disney’s The Lion King Jr
Grades 6-8
Rehearsals begin:
Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026
Performance dates:
March 19, 21 & 22, 2026
Synopsis:
Disney’s The Lion King has captivated the imagination of audiences around the world, and now you have the opportunity to produce this one-of-a-kind musical in your community. Bring the African savanna to life on your stage with Simba, Rafiki and an unforgettable cast of characters as they journey from Pride Rock to the jungle and back again in this inspiring, coming-of-age tale.
The Lion King JR. features classic songs from the Broadway musical and animated feature film, including “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King,” “He Lives in You,” and “Hakuna Matata.” Young performers will also get the chance to learn a wide range of new theatrical skills—such as mask-making and puppetry—encouraging them to explore this beloved story with creativity and pride.
Instructors:
Alex Roby & Mary Kate Vanegas
*Our spring sessions are full*
We are using a new system this year for registration!
Please create your account NOW!
This will help the registration process move faster for you and help guarantee a spot for your young performer! Click the button below for guidance on how to create your account. This page will provide written and visual guides on how to create your account.
Need help getting registered?
Take a look at the how-to videos below to get started!
Thank you for your patience.
Our registration for Academy Spring 2024 will be live at 7 p.m. this evening, Tuesday, January 9.
Registration Fees
JCC Member: $684, Non-Member: $720
Thank you for enrolling in Academy! We are committed to providing a great experience for all participants. If you need to request a refund, please note the following:
- If you request a refund before the program starts, we will provide a 50% refund of the total program fee.
- No refunds will be issued once the program has commenced.
We appreciate your understanding and look forward to a fantastic season of productions! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
From our Academy Parents & Alumni…
“CenterStage Academy truly set the foundation for my passion in musical theatre. The program did a fantastic job of teaching me professionalism, auditioning skills, and teamwork, all in a safe, loving environment. I knew that I would not be judged at Academy and that aspect made it a big part of my life! After participating for six years, I feel more connected to the Louisville theatre community than ever, and CenterStage Academy allowed me to start that journey at a very young age. Academy helped me find my lifelong passion and seeing it continue to do so for others has been amazing!”
“CenterStage has provided an invaluable experience for our young actor. The program has ignited her passion for the arts, fostered a strong work ethic, and boosted her confidence. I am thoroughly impressed with the professional instruction and the inclusive environment. Witnessing actors of all ages support and encourage one another, both in competition and collaboration, has been truly special.”
“I have seen such a transformation in my son from being a part of CenterStage Academy for the last few years. I was concerned we would need theater experience before joining, but the program is set up to be inclusive of all students as they will all be welcomed, no matter their experience level. The teamwork and encouragement of the instructors has instilled lifelong confidence and skills in my young performer, both on and off stage. Joining Academy was the best decision we’ve made and my son is flourishing from his involvement in the program.”
“Both of our daughters have participated in CenterStage Academy over the last few years. It has been an amazing experience for them! They have grown in their musical theatre abilities, but more importantly, have gained valuable lifelong skills like teamwork, communication, leadership, confidence and more. We have been impressed by the instructors and program. They are passionate, dedicated and organized. I would highly recommend CenterStage Academy to anyone seeking a positive, supportive, arts education program for their young performers.”
“CenterStage Academy provided a wonderful social, musical, and educational opportunity for my son. The instructors strive to help each individual student grow, learn how to express themselves, and work with an ensemble toward a common performance goal. We are so thankful to have been a part of the CenterStage Academy community!”
“The CenterStage Academy program provided my daughter with a full spectrum theater arts experience. Not only did she develop her talents on stage through top-notch instruction, but she was also immersed in culture, tradition, and storytelling in a truly collaborative and supportive learning environment.”
“My daughter has been a part of the CenterStage Academy Family for 5 years! The Academy has had a tremendous impact that goes far beyond discovering and developing her talents as a performer. While getting experience in acting, singing, and dancing were an important draw, the unexpected life skills that she has learned have been far more meaningful. Her confidence has blossomed. She is comfortable on stage and with public speaking. She understands the importance of teamwork. She has learned to look at the positives when faced with disappointment in not getting a role or something she worked hard for. She has established lifelong friendships and a support system in the community. She has found a mentor she looks up to and that inspires her to get better at her craft. I am forever grateful to the Academy for this wonderful experience. I would highly recommend the CenterStage Academy to young, aspiring performers and their respective families! You won’t regret it!”
Questions?
Contact Erin Silliman, Director of Arts & Ideas, via email or call 502-238-2763.