The Newport News Summer Institute for the Arts (SIA) offers an intensive six-week program in dance, drama, music and visual arts each summer. Students are selected by a panel of area artists and educators based on written applications, auditions, review or portfolios and interviews.
The Institute is normally held at Woodside High School with specialty workshops held throughout the city. Tuition is charged and will be announced in the spring. Classes normally meet 7:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday, June through early August (specific dates to be announced). The staff consists of practicing artists, university staff and local educators.
Students, from rising eighth graders to high school seniors, residing in Newport News are eligible for the program. Students will receive one weighted credit (+.5 value) for completing an Institute course.
Students may pick up application forms and audition information from any fine or performing arts teacher or from the school counseling office in the spring. Completed applications must be returned to the school counseling office sometime in March, and auditions are usually in April. For more information, please call 757-283-7850.
Institute Programs
Visual Arts – Students will be given concentrated instruction and experiences in drawing as the basis for all other art skills. Art history and appreciation, including instruction and field trips to area galleries and museums will be included. Workshop opportunities in painting, sculpture, computer graphics and other media will be offered.
Music – The program will include instruction and performance in vocal or instrumental music. Additional studies will include music theory, the evolution of music, composition and arranging. Workshops in conducting, opera, musical theater, electronic music, recording techniques, career opportunities and related areas will be offered.
Drama – Students will receive advanced level instruction in voice, diction, stage movement, stagecraft and design, character development and acting. Workshops in stage combat, mime, improvisation, Shakespeare, musical theater, summer theater, puppetry, auditioning, lighting and set design, directing and careers in drama will be offered.
Program Objectives
- To develop the unique talents of students
- To provide a forum for the display of student’s works
- To enhance student’s abilities to analyze, interpret and evaluate the arts
- To increase student’s awareness of career opportunities in the arts
