Academy of Visual and Performing Arts

The Visual and Performing Arts Academy at Red Bank Regional High School consists of seven areas of study: Commercial Art, Creative Writing, Dance, Drama, Photography, Piano, and Vocal Music. It is the only state approved Visual and Performing Arts Occupational Program in Monmouth County. The curriculum, taught by certified teachers, is augmented by outside professional artists who provide students with specialized workshops, master classes and residencies in all areas of study.

The Visual and Performing Arts Academy, whose curriculum is aligned with the Visual and Performing Arts Core Curriculum Content Standards, emphasizes interdisciplinary activities, cultural and historical relationships, career opportunities and college information in the arts. It is also important to point out that along with individual artistic development, the program stresses the academic, intellectual, and aesthetic growth of our students.

Students, who are admitted by portfolio submission or audition only, make a multi-year commitment through the twelfth grade and are only allowed to major in one area. They attend multiple class periods per day devoted to their discipline and are required to participate in arts experiences that extend beyond the regular school day in the form of rehearsals, performances, and exhibit openings.

As a vocationally structured program where career scenarios are stressed, students exhibit their work and/or perform on a regular basis under the guidance of their teachers. Performance majors are required to give a senior recital or participate in a major school production, senior visual arts majors are required to exhibit their work in a senior show, creative writing majors must participate in an annual “Voices” presentation, and senior dance majors are required to choreograph works to be performed in the annual dance concert. VPA majors must perform in and/or attend all concerts, productions, and exhibit openings during the year, which is reflected in their grade. The program is also highlighted by special performance opportunities both in-house and throughout the county and state. Creative writing, Commercial Art and Commercial Photography students regularly submit their work or compete in regional, state and national competitions.

For further information regarding the Visual and Performing Arts Academy at Red Bank Regional High School or if you would like to visit, please call (732) 842-8000, extension 227. Sincerely,

Anthony J. Migliaccio,
Director