Our Story
We Are Shaping The Next Generation Of Confident, Smart & Expressive Kids.…and loving every second of it!
WELCOME TO THE ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS!
It’s OKAY to let your child’s creativity spark, it can lead to beautiful things. We’re excited to learn more about your child and help them become the person they’re meant to be.
The Academy of Performing Arts (APA) was born from a simple dream: to help children pursue their passions through the transformative power of the performing arts. What began in 2002 as a free backyard pom program for 17 middle schoolers has since blossomed into a vibrant community where more than 1,000 students gather each week to explore dance, music, and theatre.
From those early practices grew a studio dedicated not only to developing talent, but also to building confidence, sparking joy, and creating a true sense of belonging. Parents quickly recognized that APA was something special—something that went far beyond dance skills.
Over the years, that modest backyard dream has flourished into a full performing arts school with multiple locations, a wide variety of programs, and countless opportunities for students, families, and staff to thrive. Today, APA is proud to stand as one of the area’s leading performing arts schools, where every student is encouraged to shine—both on stage and in life.
A key part of APA’s story is Jamie Cook, whose family founded the Academy. Since 2008, she has overseen the operations of both locations with dedication and care, and in June 2023 she stepped into a new chapter of leadership by assuming ownership and management of a third location—proudly welcoming Next Step Dance Studio (NSDS) into the APA family. Now serving as Owner and General Manager of APA & Next Step, Jamie collaborates closely with staff, faculty, and department managers to ensure seamless operations—from programming and recital planning to systematizing and beyond. What she treasures most is working together to provide families in the community with a wide variety of experiences where everyone feels welcome, supported, and inspired.
Check out more of our timeline below!
BABY STEPS AND LEAPS OF FAITH
It all started with 17 middle schoolers, gathered to dance in a borrowed space. 3 years, over 100 students and a ruined backyard later…
2005
In time, the need for a true home became clear. The program had outgrown backyards and borrowed spaces, and in just two weeks a new chapter began at the corner of Ryan Road and Highway 32. That space became Studio 21 Pom & Dance Academy, the very first home where students could come together to learn, grow, and shine.
2010
We had become so much more than just a dance academy, and it was time for our name to reflect all that we offered. Studio 21 Pom & Dance Academy Inc. was officially renamed The Academy of Performing Arts.
2017
Our Franklin location proudly celebrated its 5th anniversary, marking an exciting milestone in APA’s journey. Together, our two powerhouse locations now serve nearly 1,000 families representing 37 different zip codes. Families travel from across Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha, and Waukesha Counties to be part of the APA community—a true reflection of the wide-reaching impact of the performing arts.
2023
APA welcomed our new sister-studio, Next Step Dance Studio in Franklin, Wi, into our performing arts family!
2008
Thanks to an overwhelmingly positive response from local families, the vision for what started as a small dance program quickly expanded. To meet the needs of the community, a larger, purpose-built facility was created—one that could offer not only dance, but also music lessons and acting classes. It was during this exciting time of growth that additional team members joined the journey, helping to support the expanding opportunities for students and families.
2012
APA’s impact quickly reached beyond its first home. With growing interest from neighboring communities and numerous requests from families, the decision was made to open a second studio. In September 2012, the Franklin Studio officially opened its doors, warmly welcomed by enthusiastic students and supportive parents eager to be part of the APA family.
2020
APA proudly celebrated its 15th Anniversary—a testament to years of growth, creativity, and community. Like the rest of the world, we also faced the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, we quickly transitioned to virtual classes and performances, ensuring that students could continue experiencing the joy of dance and music from home. Our dedicated staff went above and beyond to provide consistency, connection, and a much-needed creative outlet during uncertain times.
EXPLORE, HAVE FUN & GROW
In addition to the power of the performing arts, we obsessively believe in good friends, belly laughs, power naps, healthy challenges, and making BIG changes with small steps.
(We also 100% believe that we can have a more fulfilling life if everyone spent 20 minutes a day dancing to the beat)
CREATIVITY
Everything at APA is ruled by creativity. Our idea from day one has been to nurture originality and help children see their endless possibilities.
COMMUNITY
Community is very important to us, so is teamwork. By providing a free-spirited yet tight-knit space, we help children build strong relationships and foster them through healthy competitions and creative collaborations.
CONNECTION
We aim for an excellent, uncompromised, and exceptional service (as close to perfect as possible) because we care. We are all about effective communication and creating deep connection with parents, students and our staff.
Ready To Get In
On The Fun?
What began as a simple dream has grown into the thriving, supportive community that is now The Academy of Performing Arts. It’s hard to imagine, but in 2002, the very first class was held in a backyard, where 17 middle school students gathered to dance together.
What started as a free pom program quickly became something bigger. Parents began asking, “Why aren’t you charging for this?” and “What’s your long-term plan?” They saw what was happening—dance was building more than just skills. It was inspiring confidence, sparking joy, and creating a sense of belonging for every child who participated.
From those early backyard practices grew a dance studio dedicated to nurturing not only talented dancers, but also resilient, confident young people. Over the years, that small studio has transformed into a full performing arts school with multiple locations, a variety of programs, and opportunities for students, families, and staff to thrive. Today, The Academy of Performing Arts continues to honor its foundation by offering meaningful experiences that support our community and celebrate the power of the performing arts.
