Come visit us in action at Mary Jo's Performing Arts Academy and experience our unique curriculum. We encourage you to call and arrange a tour, meet our dynamic faculty, and witness our distinctive programs in progress. Research has shown that by exposing children to the performing arts, we help them to improve their critical thinking skills, develop their self-confidence and better prepare them for their future academic endeavors.
Our Mission
To educate, empower and inspire students of all ages and abilities in a safe, stimulating environment. To create a safe haven where students can explore their creativity, develop self-confidence, overcome fears and explore various pathways to express their inner selves. To provide our students the vehicle to find their inner voice and learn life lessons that will help mold them into successful young adults. To share our passion for the arts and make a difference in this world one child at a time!
Our Vision
- To offer a place where all artistic disciplines can be explored; allowing students to discover their own creative preference and style.
- To provide the highest quality teaching staff and academy environment.
- To educate to our fullest potential utilizing the proper technical instruction in all curriculum offerings.
- To hold true to the history of the performing arts as passed down from generation to generation while incorporating the new teachings of today’s vibrant dance styles.
- To help students develop the self-confidence necessary to find their inner voice and succeed in a competitive society.
- To create a safe, nurturing environment where all students can learn at their own pace regardless of their age or abilities.
- To provide a faculty that is knowledgeable and willing to utilize various teaching techniques so that each individual can soar.
- To offer a variety of performing opportunities for students to incorporate their artistic achievements.
- To instill lifelong learning skills.
- To promote a professional and disciplined attitude in class, rehearsal and performance that will contribute to each student’s overall work ethics.
- To teach the value of all aspects of the arts, incorporating a fun experience and memories to last a lifetime.
Our History
For over 35 years, Mary Jo's Performing Arts Academy (MJPAA) has been a leader in the Tampa Bay area specializing in Dance, Acting, Voice and Music education. Our distinctive combination of performing arts curricula and professional compassionate faculty provides students an edifying experience while developing friendships and a lifelong appreciation of the arts. Under the tutelage of Artistic Director Mary Jo Scanio, the Academy has grown to incorporate education in all areas of the performing arts and has emerged today as one of the finest training facilities in the southeast region. MJPAA was named one of the top 50 dance schools in the United States in 2004 by Dance Spirit Magazine. Since then, it has continued to remain on the honor roll of Outstanding Dance Schools from 2005 to the present.
The Academy is the home of The Tampa Bay Triple Threat Theatre, The Universal Movement Performing Arts Company and the Classical Ballet of Tampa. There are a variety of disciplines and levels provided for all ages from recreational to those wanting to pursue the arts as a career. Opportunities for our students to showcase their talents throughout the year is abundant and ranges from Ballet and Musical Theater Productions to community outreach presentations and events.
MJPAA is founded on the belief that arts education is character education, instilling the discipline, self confidence, creativity and life lessons necessary for students to succeed in any path they choose. The Academy has been home to over 1000's of aspiring artists, many who are currently enjoying careers in the performing arts as entertainers, choreographers and educators. However, you will also find many more of our former students who through the discipline of arts education are soaring in science, technology liberal arts, and most importantly, Life!
For more information, please contact us at Mary Jo's Performing Arts Academy by calling 813.969.0240 or by going to our website at www.mjpaa.com.
