Explore expression, fluidity and storytelling through movement. Dancers will focus on technique, musicality and emotional connection while learning a dynamic combination that encourages creativity and individuality. Online registration is not available for this workshop.
» Ages 9-18
» 2-3pm Sun, 11/8/26
» Instructor Faith Engelkens
» J. Mark Beaty Performance Center @ WAA
» Tuition: $12.50
Get energized and confident in this high-energy workshop. Dancers will build rhythm, coordination and style while learning fun choreography inspired by current trends and classic grooves. Online registration is not available for this workshop.
» Ages 9-18
» 2-3pm Sun, 10/18/26
» Instructor Faith Engelkens
» J. Mark Beaty Performance Center @ WAA
» Tuition: $12.50
Strengthen technique and elevate your skills in this focused training session. Dancers will work on proper alignment, control and power while improving leaps, turns and across-the-floor progressions. Online registration is not available for this workshop.
» Ages 9-18
» 2-3pm Sun, 9/13/26
» Instructor Faith Engelkens
» J. Mark Beaty Performance Center @ WAA
» Tuition: $12.50
Learn some of the ways meals are balanced in Japan, and make some classic Japanese meals. We hope you come hungry!
» Ages 6-Adult
» Instructor Jasmine Marsh
» First Presbyterian Church, 410 Second Ave., Sterling (Enter the double doors on Second Avenue, across from Sterling Federal Bank)
» Tuition: $40/workshop
Dinner
Featuring katsu curry, among other foods.
» 10am-Noon Sat, 11/7/26
Learn some of the ways meals are balanced in Japan, and make some classic Japanese meals. We hope you come hungry!
» Ages 6-Adult
» Instructor Jasmine Marsh
» First Presbyterian Church, 410 Second Ave., Sterling (Enter the double doors on Second Avenue, across from Sterling Federal Bank)
» Tuition: $40/workshop
Lunch
Featuring onigiri, among other foods.
» 10am-Noon Sat, 9/26/26
In this fun, hands-on workshop, students will build confidence and essential cooking skills in a supportive environment. Learn kitchen safety, measuring, basic cooking techniques, and how to prepare simple foods while working together and trying recipes such as biscuits and gravy! This workshop encourages creativity, independence and teamwork, leaving students with practical skills to cook at home.
Let’s get those cookie plates ready for Santa! We’ll make and share some classic cookie recipes, and you’ll leave with a batch for Jolly Old Saint Nick himself! An adult family member is welcome to assist. *Cookies will be nut/peanut free.
What years did you attend WAA?
I attended Woodlawn from 2007 to 2020.
What program(s) did you participate in at WAA?
I was a part of Woodlawn’s dance program from ages 7 to 18. I then had the honor of teaching dance and working for Woodlawn!
How did WAA make a lasting impression and impact on you?
Woodlawn made an incredible impact on my life. Getting exposed to the arts at a young age definitely left a huge impression. I found one of my biggest passions in life at WDA/WAA: dance. Dance is still a huge part of my life, and I have Woodlawn to thank for that.
What areas of study did you pursue after your time at WAA?
After moving to Nashville, I pursued a dance minor at Belmont University. Through their dance program, I was given the direction to pursue my current career!
What is your current job/career?
I am a Certified STOTT Pilates instructor! Pilates is a great tool for everyone, especially dancers, to move their bodies and better their daily lives. The flow of Pilates is a lot like choreography in dance, and I get to continue my love of teaching through being an instructor.
Do you feel that your time at WAA had an impact on your current position/career path?
My time at Woodlawn definitely influenced where I am today. Dance became my identity, and I met my best friend through a dance class at Woodlawn! After I graduated college, I knew I wanted to continue some form of movement. Teaching Pilates has changed my life, and I wouldn’t have gotten where I am today without the influence of Woodlawn. I cherish my years there, and I will forever be grateful for my time at WDA/WAA.
What years did you attend WAA?
What program(s) did you participate in at WAA?
How did WAA make a lasting impression and impact on you?
Nora – Woodlawn Arts Academy has been such a special place for me. I started going there in preschool, and since then I’ve done dance classes, theatre productions, summer camps and voice lessons. Being at Woodlawn has taught me how to be confident on stage, work with other kids and try new things even when they feel scary. I’ve learned how to practice, perform and have fun while doing it. Woodlawn is a place where I feel like I can be myself and explore all the things I love. It’s helped me grow as a performer, and I always look forward to going back, whether it’s for a show, a class or a camp.
Jordann – Woodlawn Arts Academy has been part of our family for so many years, and its impact has grown with every experience. I first got involved in high school, taking voice lessons and volunteering with the junior theatre productions. After high school, I continued helping with the children’s shows while attending Sauk, and later, even while working and raising my daughter Nora, I kept finding my way back to Woodlawn whenever I could. Eventually, I stepped out of my comfort zone of being the “backstage helper” and auditioned for a Theatre in the Park show, and since then I’ve performed in several summer productions and made so many lasting friendships. Watching Nora grow up through Woodlawn, creating her own experiences and making friends in theatre, camps and classes has made Woodlawn’s impact on our family even more meaningful. Performing, learning and building friendships there has helped all of us grow in confidence, character and connection, and as a parent, knowing she has a place where she can truly be herself has been everything I could hope for. Woodlawn has truly been a place of growth, learning and community for our family.
Abigail – WAA gave me the start to exploring my love for theatre and working creatively and collaboratively with others.
Brandi – Working for WAA was a wonderful experience. To witness small moments of discovery and newfound confidence in my students as they learned new skills was an amazing gift. The collective talents that make up Woodlawn Arts Academy allow for a dynamic energy that’s exciting to be a part of. One of my biggest sources of pride has to be the scholarship program offered to eligible students, eliminating financial barriers to an education in the arts. I will forever be a fan of this community treasure.
What areas of study did you pursue after your time at WAA?
What is your current job/career?
Do you feel that your time at WAA had an impact on your current position/career path?
Jordann – My time at Woodlawn Arts Academy played a huge role in shaping my career path. Working with students there is what inspired me to go back to school and become a teacher. Now I teach music to K-5 students and help put on three concerts each year. Woodlawn gave me the confidence to lead my own classroom by teaching me how to be flexible in my teaching, connect with both small and large groups of students, and guide them as they prepare for performances. It also showed me how important it is to give students ownership and leadership in those moments. Without my time at Woodlawn, I’m not sure I ever would have discovered my passion for teaching.
Download our 2026 Summer Program Guide here. Or flip through the book below.
*Please note: Registration for our summer theatre intensive, “The Lion King Jr.” is now full.
Have you reserved your seats yet? Tickets are limited! Available in person at Woodlawn Arts Academy for $50 each (additional $50 for the Art Dash ticket upgrade), cash or check only. Race to Woodlawn to get your tickets today!