imagine…

Imagine attending a public high school in the heart of downtown St. Paul, unlike any other in the country. Learn the skills and techniques to become a professional artist from current working artists. Receive a college conservatory level arts education under the guidance of current professional artists. Prepare for college academically in on-level, advanced or AP classes.

A private school experience at a public school price.
No audition. No tuition.

50/50
arts + academics

SPCPA provides authentic arts training taught by current professional artists utilizing the conservatory model while aligned with academic state standards in English, math, science, social studies, world languages, and special education. Half of each day focuses on academics, the other on arts.

at-a-glance

we are a diverse,
focused student body.

SPCPA students come from over 40 different school districts.

90-95% of SPCPA students graduate on time.

we are prepared.

99-100% of SPCPA graduates are accepted into college or conservatory.

50% of graduates pursue arts in some fashion after high school.

ON ACT TESTS

SPCPA students score 2.5 points higher than the MN average.

ON MCA's

SPCPA students score 20% higher than the state average in reading, 15% higher in science, and are typically at or above state average in math.

OUR ALUMNI SAY IT BEST

I had an amazing experience at this arts school! From the moment I walked through the door, I felt inspired by the creativity and talent all around me. The faculty and staff were incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, always pushing me to be my best and never giving up on me. Not only did I develop my artistic skills in ways I never imagined, but I also made lasting friendships with fellow students who share my passion for the arts. The resources and opportunities available at this school are unparalleled, and I feel so grateful to have been a part of such a vibrant and welcoming community. I would highly recommend this arts school to anyone looking to grow their talents and discover their potential as an artist.

Maria Briggs, Broadway actor/dancer/singer, Class of 2009

CONNECTED

An important part of SPCPA’s purpose is to connect the students and the school to the Twin Cities professional arts community in a number of ways.

what's happening

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Seven(!) SPCPA students are part of the upcoming production of Youth Performance Company's Mean Girls Jr.- James Purcell, Audrey Korba, Zola Renfroe, Peyton Medina-Madrigal, Matt Axtman, Cal Prideaux, and Cohen DaBruzzi.

Mean Girls Jr. opens May 1 and runs through May 17–don;t miss the chance to support these talented performers and catch what promises to be a fun, high energy show!

Tickets: youthperformanceco.org/mean-girls/

Have a great run, ya'll!
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Seven(!) SPCPA stude

Today, on the 10th anniversary of Prince’s passing, SPCPA students honored his legacy with a performance of “Purple Rain” at Landmark Plaza. See MoreSee Less

Master Class! Alsa and Morgan Bruno from Brass Solidarity (@brasssolidarity) led music students last week in a rousing rendition of Hold On (Change is Comin'), backed by student instrumentalists. Thank you Brass Solidarity – and thanks to SPCPA Music teacher, Chris Hepola, for bringing them in!

Check out a video of the final work:

drive.google.com/file/d/1yfBxITjNkytPFCVtTImhrcol6F-GmUn2/view?usp=drivesdk

#spcpacommunity #brasssolidarity #instrumentalmusic #vocalmusic #spcpa
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Master Class!  Alsa

SPCPA Senior Dance Showcase 2026

Join us for an inspiring evening of original choreography at this year’s Senior Dance Showcase! Select SPCPA seniors have created their own works, brought to life by talented 11th and 12th grade dancers in a powerful celebration of artistry, collaboration, and student voice.

At Red Eye Theater, Monday, May 4, at 6:00 PM & 7:30 PM

Some seats remain—don’t miss this opportunity to experience the next generation of dance artists sharing their work on a professional stage – come support these student choreographers and performers!

Tickets here: www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/spcpa-senior-project-dance-concert–2026

#spcpacommunity #spcpaarts
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SPCPA Senior Dance S

Perks of attending a downtown high school #2: You get to eat lunch across the street in a city park.

#spcpacommunity
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Perks of attending a

SPCPA Student Spotlight!

We’re excited to celebrate current SPCPA student Cora Freeman, who is performing in The Right Thing to Do: The Joe Mauer Story at Stages Theatre Company !

This world premiere—based on the beloved children’s book—"explores the power of small acts of kindness and the impact they can have on others." The show opened just a few days ago and runs through May 10—don’t miss your chance to support Cora and experience this inspiring new production.

Get your tickets @www.stagestheatre.org

We love seeing our students out in the community doing meaningful, joyful work—have a great run, Cora!

#spcpacommunity
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SPCPA Students & Alumni Take the Stage!

We are thrilled to celebrate members of our SPCPA community who are bringing their talents to the stage in The Wizard of Oz at Children's Theatre Company!

Congratulations to current students Brody Breen, Aliya Bailey, and Truman Bednar, along with SPCPA alum Bella West, who is also understudying the iconic role of Dorothy. What an incredible opportunity!

The show opens April 21 and runs through June 14, and we couldn’t be more proud to see these artists shining in the professional community.

Let’s show our support—be sure to check out the production and cheer them on!

Tickets: www.childrenstheatre.org

#SPCPA #SPCPAArts #spcpaalum #ChildrensTheatreCompany #spcpacommunity
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On Tuesday, SPCPA welcomed back alumnus Erik Nordstrom (@lubridermis_)(Vocal Track), who returned to sing and speak with vocal and musical theatre students in the very room where he once studied! He shared insights from his journey studying Vocal Performance and Music Education at Lawrence University, followed by earning his Master’s degree and Artist Diploma at the College-Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati. Erik is currently in his second year as a Resident Artist with Pittsburgh Opera. This summer, he will be singing with the Glimmerglass Opera, performing the role of Judd in Oklahoma!. Thank you, Erik!

#spcpaalum @lubridermis_
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