Lifetime Performing Arts Academy closes

Sadly and suddenly, Lifetime Performing Arts Academy of Aliso Viejo closed their doors last month. Apparently due to an inability to come to terms on a new leasing contract. This leaves a big hole in South OC for the main reason that it offered kids a 'fun' place to build various performing skills. They offered dance, and theater dance and acting and voice and all kinds of instruments and rock band classes. No place else offers this variety. And most importantly, offering them as 'fun' classes and getting them on stage frequently!

After they closed I went searching for a local dance class for my daughter to continue to enjoy performing on stage. Yikes! I can understand that there are some students who really want and need 'serious' dance instruction at six years old. But not everyone is planning on attending Juliard when they get older. Sheesh. Performing for many kids at this age is about building confidence,
developing their talents, exploring different performing arts, making friends, and having fun. Many of the skills developed can be drawn on to help in any job when they grow up. Especially management and sales.

For acting, there is the Center Stage Studio in Aliso Viejo which has a wonderful 5-6 year old theater class. I highly recommend it. However, we are still searching for a good local place to get piano lessons, voice lessons, dance classes such as ballet, tap, hip hop and jazz along with theater song and dance class. I am almost to the point where I want to start my own "Fun" School of Performing Arts. ;)

Many of the great teachers there continue to provide in home instruction. However, the group atmosphere, the quarterly stage performances are what made it so special. That will be missed.