Richland Academy of the Arts

Richland Academy of the Arts is dedicated to our mission to foster, through artistic expression, the creative potential that exists in everyone to enrich the lives of our neighbors, our community, and the world at large. 

WHO WE ARE

We offer year round educational arts programming, that includes weekly arts experiences in group classes, private lessons, workshops, master classes, and performances in dance, music, theatre, visual arts, musical theatre, martial arts and self-defense, senior 60+, and custom class programs! For over 30 years, we have carried out our mission by nurturing our community in an environment of safety, respect, learning, and creativity. 

We bring community programming in collaboration with other Richland County non-profits and agencies like the Area Agency on Aging, Richland County Health Department, Richland Carrousel Park, Renaissance Theatre, Visual Bucket List and Richland County Public Library.  

"It is the caliber of the people who work at the Academy who make the Academy such a special place. It is tempting to mention each person by name – but the point here is that the Academy hires talented people (as instructors, or office personnel) who are motivated and dedicated to teaching and supporting the development of our children in such amazingly positive ways." 

~Julie and Greg Timberlake, Richland Academy parents of dance and vocal student,  Meiyan Timberlake 

WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT!

Your gift to Richland Academy is more important today than ever and will have a lasting impact on the lives of students and participants of all ages. Your generous gift is a commitment to community ARTS, and we are happy to apply your gift to wherever you feel it will make the biggest impact!  Your gift can be designated in support of our Annual Fund, the Neil A. Doerman Scholarship Fund, or our Dance Program.

The Annual Fund, Bringing the ARTS to our Community

Your gift to The Annual Fund will support programming and performances that are offered in a safe, clean, and nurturing learning environment by qualified and vetted instructors.  We understand the significant impact that arts education has on the mental, emotional, and physical health of our students and community.  Your Annual Fund support allows us to direct funds where most needed benefiting our mission.

Neil A. Doerman Scholarship Fund, Giving an Opportunity to our Community 

Your gift to the scholarship program will help fund year-round scholarship opportunities available to students and families, making the arts available to all regardless of financial limitations. Over the last year, we have awarded $24,000 in scholarship assistance, giving 174 students the opportunity to participate in dance, music, visual arts, theatre, and martial arts.

"RAA encourages every person, with any age and skill level, to find joy in the journey— whether it be through dance, music, theatre, or other artistic endeavors."

~Alicia Porter, Piano Instructor

Dance Program, Dance Another Day Project

We are excited to announce the Dance Program's, Dance Another Day Project.  Currently we are in Phase One of this Two Phase project.  The total project cost of Phase One is $94,390, and includes the following work in Studios 1, 2, and 3: 

• installation of new HVAC unit in Studio 2
• installation of mirrors in Studio 3
• removal of sprung dance floor in Studios 1 and 2
• installation of sprung dance floor in Studios 1 and 2 

Phase One of the project began in September 2022 and will be finished in June 2023.  A total amount of $35,668 has been raised to fund this project, with the support of the Robert and Esther Black Family Fund of the Richland County Foundation and the PNC Asset Management Fund along with donations from community members.  

Over the past five years, over 4,200 students in all disciplines have participated in our programs, special events, and performances that take place in these studio spaces. The dance studios are used 7 days a week, 12 months a year for classes, rehearsals, performances, and special community events.

Your gift to this project will benefit all students and the community participating in Richland Academy of the Arts programming. 

Thank you for supporting the ARTS!

Your friends,

Richland Academy of the Arts