School for Creative and Performing Arts

SCPA: A Beacon of Artistic Excellence

Imagine a place where creativity meets discipline, where every student is not just a learner but an artist in the making. That’s what the School for Creative and Performing Arts (SCPA) in Cincinnati, Ohio, has been since its founding in 1973.

The Founding of SCPA

How did SCPA come to be? In a city grappling with desegregation battles, Dick Dickinson and his team saw an opportunity to create something transformative. They envisioned a school that would combine basic education with intensive artistic training, catering specifically to students with artistic talents.

The Early Years in Mount Adams (1973–1975)

SCPA started small but grew quickly. By 1974, it had 332 students and overflowed into rented spaces nearby. This early phase laid the groundwork for what was to come.

The Transition in Roselawn (1975–1976)

Imagine a school that moves from one temporary space to another, always adapting and growing. That’s exactly what SCPA did during this period.

Dickinson worked tirelessly to integrate arts into academics, winning recognition for his contributions. The school’s move to Roselawn marked a significant step in its journey.

The Old Woodward Era (1976–1990)

Can you imagine a school housed in one of Cincinnati’s historic buildings? That’s what SCPA experienced when it moved into the Old Woodward School building in 1976.

This building, named after William Woodward, who donated land for educational facilities, was not just any old school—it was an architectural gem. The school thrived here, becoming a renowned arts institution despite the challenges of its surroundings.

National Attention and Controversy

SCPA quickly gained national attention as a model for arts programs across the country. But like all schools, it faced its share of controversies.

In 1991, principal Dickinson resigned due to an investigation into alleged improper contact with students. The following years saw more challenges, including financial struggles and declining enrollment. However, the school persevered, facing each challenge head-on.

The Erich Kunzel Era

Can you imagine a school that not only thrives but also gets a new campus championed by a renowned conductor? That’s what happened with SCPA in 1996 when Erich Kunzel proposed the new campus near Cincinnati Music Hall.

The Erich Kunzel Center for Arts and Education, completed in 2008, is a testament to the school’s ongoing commitment to excellence. This state-of-the-art facility combines arts and academic spaces, providing students with unparalleled resources.

Curriculum and Programs

SCPA’s curriculum prepares students for professional careers in arts. Each student concentrates in one major area: creative writing, dance, drama, music, stagecraft, and visual art.

The program emphasizes discipline and performance, with all students taking courses in each major area. Advanced students may study up to two hours daily in their chosen fields, participating in public performances and competitions.

Notable Alumni

SCPA has produced many notable alumni who have gone on to achieve great success in the arts. Nick Lachey, Drew Lachey, and Justin Jeffre of 98 Degrees are just a few examples.

The school’s commitment to excellence is evident not only in its curriculum but also in the lives of its graduates. From Broadway stages to television screens, SCPA students have made their mark on the world.

Conclusion

SCPA stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when art and education come together. It has faced challenges, but it continues to inspire and educate its students, preparing them for success in both the arts and beyond.