Academy For the Performing Arts

Saw my first APA performance on Oct. 24 2014. We went to see Avenue Q. Let me tell you… these kids and staff put on an AMAZING performance. They are talented, and work so hard. This is excellent quality performing for anyone who can’t get to (or afford) LA for a theatre show.
Highly recommend!!!

I try to see as many APA performances as possible. We are visitors to Segerstrom and APA is on par with those performances. Incredibly talented high school students put on professional shows — not just great singing and acting, but the costumes, props, and sets as well We are never disappointed!
Recently we saw Shrek and loved it so much that we went back with friends to see it again. In addition to theater, we have seen amazing music performances.
The shows are in the historic Huntington Beach High auditorium — a beautiful setting. Great job APA, we are looking forward to your next performances! A true hidden gem in Orange County.

I have a son who graduated 5 years ago and 1 son currently in the Academy for the Performing Arts at HBHS. I can not expess how much my children have learned from and enjoyed this program. My older son was in the music department. He loved it so much and has continued with music in college. The teachers and staff work hard and give so much to the students. All the children are dedicated because they love what they do. My younger son is in the theater program. He absolutely loves working with everyone and learning hands on. This has been the best opportunity. The theater that was refurbished a few years ago is absolutely beautiful. Anyone who attends one the shows in the theater will be amazed at all the talent and how much work goes into each production. The academy has a great group of students who spend a lot of time together and they are like a family. I would recommend the Academy to any student interested in music (commercial or orchestra), marching band, drumline, acting, dance, costume or set design, set building or technical skills.

I have been doing a variety of dance, with an emphasis on ballet and modern dance. I’ve studied at many different studios and have even learned from ballet masters Paul Moore and Victor Morino and from a woman from the Rocket’s, Jett Sally. However, my time dancing in the APA was the most memorable and fulfilling.
If your children are in high school, I highly recommend the Academy of Performing Arts at Huntington Beach High School. Marie Hoffman is the best. She is tough, but she is hands-​on, dances with you, and will shape you into the best dancer you can be. She teaches ballet, modern, jazz, and repertory classes and is an extremely unique teacher. She even teaches at Cypress College, for those who are in college.
I graduated in 2006, so I’m hoping that APA is just as great, if not better, as it used to be.

I’m rating this institution solely based on their performances.
I was first introduced to APA when my Junior High English Lit teacher offered it as extra credit. We had to go watch a play and write a review. I went with little expectations, it is after all a play featuring other high school kids. Since I didn’t drive yet, mom tagged along.
We left the show in awe and satisfaction that our $ 20 didn’t go to waste. The entire show is spectacular and rivals any professional production. From the sets to the actors, lighting to the orchestra, nothing was less than outstanding.
Long after I’ve finished that class, I still return to APA for quality shows that would easily cost quintuple elsewhere. They must have a bounty of talents, because whether it be musicals, Shakespeare plays, or dancing shows, they never disappoint. I love Broadway musicals but I’ll return to APA any day.