Fresno County Summer Arts Academy

2025 FCSAA Schedule
Click here to view the complete schedule
The Fresno County Summer Arts Academy (FCSAA) is a FREE 2-week summer arts program for current 8th grade through 12th grade students!
CLICK HERE TO APPLY TODAY
(deadline: June 1, 11:59 PM)
ALL FCSAA EVENTS WILL BE HELD ON THE FRESNO CITY COLLEGE CAMPUS
(1101 E University Ave, Fresno, CA 93741)
note: ALL COURSES meet at the same time each day so students may only participate in one arts course.
For questions or more information, email summerarts@fcoe.org or call the FCSS Arts Education Department at 559.265.3085.
2025 Course and Instructor Information
The Actor's Workshop – Abigail Paxton (Theatre Teacher, Buchanan High School)
Step into the spotlight this summer with "The Actor's Workshop," an exhilarating journey into the world of theatre and performance! This FCSAA course offers a dynamic curriculum designed to build versatile, confident actors. Students will start each day with a physical and vocal warm-up, followed by games and exercises aimed at honing their voice, body, and instinctual abilities. Through exploration and play, they will learn to become expressive and confident storytellers. The program is tailored to individual students’ needs, offering both introduction and deepening of their acting skills which will be highlighted in a showcase on the final day of the workshop. By the end of the workshop, students will have grown in their craft and gained confidence in their skills.
Dance Performance & Choreography – Vanessa Gonzalez (Dance Teacher, Clovis East High School)
This course will build your physical and technical skills as well as cultivate your creativity into movement and choreography! Students will be given the tools to build the core strength and balance it takes to achieve the turns, leaps and isolations they want to execute in performance. We will also workshop students' original choreography to hone in on style and individuality as well as performance quality. All pieces will have the eligibility to be showcased at the end of the course alongside the instructor's choreography.
Mariachi Performance & Composition – Omar Naré (Composer & Mariachi) & Pamela Galicia (Mariachi Instructor, Roosevelt School of the Arts)
Under the expert guidance of seasoned Mariachi musicians, you’ll delve into the history and cultural significance of Mariachi music as you go beyond the classic songs that define the Mariachi sound to explore your creative side through composition. Learn to craft your own Mariachi pieces, blending traditional elements with your personal touch. Engage in collaborative workshops where you'll arrange music, write lyrics, and perform with your peers. Whether you've just begun your Mariachi journey or you are a more seasoned veteran, this course is designed to enhance your musical skills and deepen your appreciation for this vibrant genre. Join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Mariachi music, where you’ll create, perform, and connect with a community of fellow music enthusiasts. Celebrate the spirit of Mariachi and let your music resonate!
Summer Snapshots: Exploring the Art & Technique of Photography – Tamela Ryatt (Photography Faculty, Fresno City College & Fresno Unified School District)
This hands-on program is perfect for high school students eager to explore the art of capturing stunning images. Over the course of this exciting journey, you will experiment with various photographic techniques. Take your photography skills to the next level in this exciting 2-week class. Whether you're a budding photographer just getting started or a more experienced veteran looking to refine your skills, this course offers thrilling exploration of artistic expression through photography!
Concert Band – Elisha Wells (Director of Bands, Brass, and Music Theory, Fresno City College)
Unleash your musical abilities in our two-week Concert Band course! Join fellow high school musicians for an immersive journey into the world of ensemble performance. From classic tunes to modern compositions, hone your skills, build lasting friendships, share unforgettable moments, and leave with a newfound confidence in your musical prowess!
Musical Theatre Intensive – Joel Abels (Theatre Education Content Specialist, Fresno County Superintendent of Schools)
Join us for a two-week deep dive into the world of musical theatre! This intensive course is designed for aspiring performers looking to hone their skills and take their talent to the next level. Throughout the program, you will explore the rich history of musical theatre, learn how to prepare a standout audition book, and work on performance pieces to be showcased on the final day.
Visual Art – Samantha Lazcano (Art Teacher, Kepler Neighborhood School)
Unleash your creativity in our Visual Art course! This Summer, we will explore our 2 dimensional and 3 dimensional skills! Visual Art Students will focus on creating a 3D object, sculpture, or mask, using papier-mâché and acrylic paint! We will also dabble in block printing, and painting on a canvas! Get ready to leave your mark and ignite inspiration wherever you go!
