The Fine Arts Academy has officially transitioned into an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, launching a broadened mission to make quality arts education accessible to students of all ages in the West Plains community.
Building on its foundation of youth theater, established during the program’s affiliation with the Avenue Theatre, the academy is expanding its curriculum beyond traditional stage productions to offer workshops in stage makeup, radio theater, Foley sound effects and theater history. The newly completed yearlong curriculum aligns with Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) grade-level learning standards, blending academics with hands-on performance, public speaking, problem-solving and collaboration skills.
Instructors Erin Kimbrough and Toyah Murray bring years of local arts education experience to the independent organization. Kimbrough, who joined the academy in 2015, has directed 24 youth productions. Murray joined in 2018, and together the pair have co-directed numerous community performances.
"As we prepare a production, we are not only creating a piece of art to share with our community, but we’re building a family," Kimbrough said.
The academy prioritizes student safety with background-checked instructors in a supportive environment. While youth programming remains central, organizers plan to expand classes and workshops to include adult learners.
Current Classes and Events
• Grades 8-12 Theater: Mondays
• Grades 5-8 Theater: Wednesdays
• 2026 Holiday Production: 7 p.m. Dec. 11 and 12, and 3 p.m. Dec. 13 at the Genesis Church Youth Building, 4945 U.S. 160.
Registration opens during designated periods throughout the year. The academy welcomes community members interested in enrolling, volunteering, partnering or donating to support local arts education.
Instructors will host an informational booth at the Ozark Heritage Festival on Oct. and 17 in downtown West Plains. The group also participates in annual local events, including OzFaire, which will take place Oct. 10 and 11 at the Heart of the Ozarks Bluegrass Park, 1138 Bluegrass Lane, West Plains.
For class schedules, registration or contribution details, visit fineartswp.org, email info@fineartswp.org, or follow Fine Arts Academy on Facebook, @FineArtsWP.
