About SMAPA

Our Mission

Sharron Miller’s Academy for the Performing Arts (SMAPA) provides comprehensive, inclusive developmental training in dance and related theater arts to students at every stage of life.

Our holistic philosophy inspires students to believe they can achieve, nurturing the potential within each student by encouraging creativity, building skills, fostering self-discipline, and bolstering self-esteem.

SMAPA Alumni: Where are they now?

Chalvar Monteiro

Dancer, formerly at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

Hannah Garner

Director, Choreographer, Dancer, 2nd best dance company

Floyd McLean Jr.

Dancer, Philadanco!

Cecilia Mitchell

Teaching Artist, SMAPA

Our Programs

Paterson Public Schools

SMAPA provides interdisciplinary instruction in dance in six public schools in Paterson, NJ.

North Star Academy, Newark, NJ

This artist-in-residence program provides 2 classes a week throughout the entire school year.

Performance Workshop Ensemble

The Performance Workshop Ensemble (PWE) is a fully funded program for the serious young dancer between the age of 12 and 18, where performance experience is the next vital step in their development. Not only do these students receive free tuition for all their training, but also have the opportunity to work with professional choreographers and teachers who help nurture and develop their skills.

The support for PWE comes directly from our donors and grantors who recognize the value in supporting these talented young people who, in many cases, are the future of Dance. PWE members offer arts in education performances in Montclair and neighboring communities.

Preschool & Prime Time Summer Arts

Prime Time Summer Arts is a full-day summer program for children ages 6–14 with daily classes in art, music, dance, and drama. Each of the two 3-week sessions culminates in a fully staged, free public performance for family and friends.

Senior Exercise Programs

SMAPA provides a year-round dance fitness program specifically designed for senior citizens ages 65 and older. This program is partially funded by the Montclair Foundation and takes place in the SMAPA studios twice weekly at no cost.

Free Boys Ballet

SMAPA offers free boys-only ballet classes every Saturday for boys ages 7 and up. This program is made possible in part by a grant from the Stone Foundation. No previous dance training is required. The only cost to students is a registration fee of $25.

Scholarships

The Joyce Copeland Scholarship is a full scholarship awarded to a deserving student of color between the ages of 10 and 12 who demonstrates a keen interest and ability in dance, yet financial support is essential.

Based on financial need, SMAPA provides tuition assistance for students who qualify as participants in the Free or Reduced Lunch Program OR New Jersey Families First Program which automatically qualifies families for tuition assistance. A qualified student pays only what they can afford.

Help us make a difference

SMAPA is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.

If you are able, please consider donating to our general scholarship fund.