Newtown Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA), previously known as The Graceful Planet Studio of Dance, is dedicated to cultivating artists who possess exceptional technical skill alongside deep empathy and a drive for civic responsibility. We view our impact on the arts through the lens of developing well-rounded performers who lead with both assurance and kindness.
Movement serves as a vital instrument for personal growth at our academy. Through the discipline of dance, our students master the art of objective setting, collaborative teamwork, and innovative problem-solving, all while forging a resilient personal character. These transferable skills extend far beyond the studio walls and into every facet of our students' lives.
While we celebrate those who pursue the stage professionally, our primary goal is to prepare every student for professional life in any field they choose. NAPA is deeply invested in nurturing the mindset and work ethic required for long-term success. We focus on training the individual as a whole, ensuring they emerge from our program as confident and capable members of society.
Leading our vision is Studio Director Grace Barton, a BFA graduate of The Hartt School at the University of Hartford, where she presently serves as a faculty member teaching both Ballet and Jazz in the Musical Theater department. Grace’s distinguished background includes training with the School of the Hartford Ballet and intensive study in Martha Graham's modern techniques. Her career as a performer includes significant solo and group works within New York City’s vibrant dance scene through Off Center Dance Theater.
Inclusion is at the heart of our mission at NAPA. We actively champion diversity, recognizing that our community is strengthened by its various perspectives and identities. We maintain an unwavering pledge to foster a welcoming environment for every individual, ensuring equitable access to the arts for all people, regardless of their background, beliefs, or identity.