Warren Consolidated School of Performing Arts

- 12901 15 Mile Rd, Sterling Heights, MI 48312

The Warren Consolidated School of Performing Arts (WCSPA) is a distinguished program in the heart of Sterling Heights, Michigan, offering an in-depth, project-based learning experience for students with a passion for the stage and behind-the-scenes artistry. As a part of the Warren Consolidated Schools district, WCSPA provides a unique and specialized curriculum that goes beyond traditional high school education, focusing on a robust and rigorous performing arts program for students in grades 9 through 12. The program is committed to fostering creative expression, self-confidence, and continuous growth in a safe and supportive environment.

WCSPA is a nationally recognized, award-winning program that introduces students to all facets of theatre performance and production. It is a place where aspiring performers, technicians, and artists can immerse themselves in a professional working environment, gaining hands-on experience and fundamental skills that will serve them in their future endeavors, whether in college or the professional world. The program is designed to be a safe, community-based environment where students can not only improve their technical skills but also develop critical life skills such as dedication, teamwork, self-discipline, and time management. It is a place for students to find their voice, develop their talents, and become part of a community that shares their passion. While some of the reviews have highlighted some challenges with staff and the student experience, the program's core commitment to the performing arts and providing a high-quality venue for performances remains a significant draw for many.

The Warren Consolidated School of Performing Arts is housed within Sterling Heights High School and the adjoining district's Performing Arts Center, located at 12901 15 Mile Rd, Sterling Heights, MI 48312, USA. This centralized location on a major thoroughfare makes it a well-known and easily accessible destination for residents of Sterling Heights and the greater Metro Detroit area. The facility is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, which ensures that all students, families, and audience members can attend classes and performances comfortably.

The performing arts center itself is a notable feature, praised for its excellent sound and lighting systems. This professional-grade venue allows for high-quality productions and provides students with an authentic performance experience. The facilities include not only the main auditorium but also a newly renovated studio theater, two dance studios, a scene shop, a costume shop, and a design lab. This array of spaces gives students unique opportunities to learn and grow in various aspects of the performing arts, from onstage acting to technical design.

WCSPA offers a comprehensive curriculum and an impressive range of programs that provide an immersive experience for students interested in the performing arts.

• Performing Arts (9-12): The core program provides an in-depth exploration of drama, dance, and technical theatre. The curriculum is largely project-based, giving students hands-on experience in a professional-grade environment.
• Dance Class: The program offers specialized dance classes, including a variety of genres. The curriculum focuses on both technique and choreography, with students having the opportunity to perform in a dance concert.
• Theatre Programs: Students can delve into multiple facets of theater, from on-stage acting and performing to backstage and technical roles. Classes cover everything from acting and directing to costume design, scenic modeling, lighting design, and stage management.
• Extracurricular Productions: In addition to the core curriculum, students can audition for after-school productions that provide additional performance opportunities and practical experience. These productions cover a wide range of genres, from classic Shakespearean plays to modern musicals.
• Music Programs: The program also includes a strong music department, with a choir that has earned a reputation for excellence at local, regional, and national levels. Students can participate in various ensembles and have multiple performance opportunities in the community.
• Technical Theatre: This is a strong component of the curriculum, with classes in technical design, scene shop supervision, and safety protocols, preparing students for professional or university-level technical roles.

The Warren Consolidated School of Performing Arts stands out in the Michigan educational landscape due to several unique features and highlights.

• Professional-Grade Facilities: The on-site Performing Arts Center is a major asset, providing students with a professional venue to hone their craft. With state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, it’s a space where students can truly shine.
• Experienced and Dedicated Staff: The program is led by a team of experienced professionals who are passionate about the arts. Many instructors have professional connections and a wealth of experience, bringing a high level of expertise to the classrooms.
• A Blend of On-Stage and Back-Stage Learning: WCSPA offers a well-rounded education, emphasizing both performance and the critical technical and design elements of theater. This holistic approach ensures students are prepared for a variety of roles within the performing arts world.
• Community and Extracurricular Opportunities: The program fosters a strong sense of community, with students participating in a variety of performances and productions throughout the year. This gives them invaluable real-world experience and a chance to showcase their talent to the community.
• Holistic Development: Beyond technical skills, the program focuses on building life skills such as confidence, discipline, and collaboration. As one alumnus noted, it's a place to "be yourself" and feel a sense of family, which can be life-changing for many students.

Address: 12901 15 Mile Rd, Sterling Heights, MI 48312, USA

Phone: (586) 825-2525

For parents and students in Sterling Heights and the surrounding communities, choosing the Warren Consolidated School of Performing Arts is a decision to invest in a specialized, high-quality education in the arts. While some public feedback has raised concerns about student well-being and staff turnover, the program's long-standing reputation as a top-tier arts school in the region remains. The state-of-the-art facilities, including the professional theater, provide an unparalleled environment for students to learn and perform. The comprehensive curriculum, which covers everything from acting and dance to costume and set design, ensures that students receive a well-rounded and practical education.

The program's focus on developing life skills alongside artistic talent makes it a valuable choice for any young person. It is a place where students can build confidence, learn discipline, and work as a team to create something beautiful. The opportunities to perform in professional-level productions and the dedication of the staff to mentoring students are key reasons why many families choose WCSPA. For a student with a serious interest in the performing arts, this program offers the tools, environment, and community to help them succeed and flourish, making it a truly unique and beneficial educational experience within the Michigan school system.

Warren Consolidated School of Performing Arts

12901 15 Mile Rd, Sterling Heights, MI 48312, USA