ABOUT THE DIRECTORS

Sheri and Michael Melcher have over 25 years of experience working for and directing outstanding performing arts programs in the Philadelphia and Lehigh Valley areas. The Creative and Performing Arts Academy of NEPA is based on a model that they were first introduced to back in 1995. The Melchers worked for a fantastic couple, Mr. and Mrs. O’Riley, at Spring Lake Farm Day Camp in Ambler, PA. It was such a wonderful environment in every way- nurturing, encouraging, engaging and led by such a professional staff. The kids came from a variety of backgrounds and spent their days creating, collaborating and building life long friendships. Spring Lake Farm was such a magical place and they knew that we wanted to create something like it one day.

After teaching for over 20 years and doing a good deal of performing and teaching, Sheri and Michael relocated to their vacation home in the Pocono mountains. After working with the Grammy-award winning singer and composer Harry Connick Jr on his new children’s musical, The Happy Elf, they decided to bring the project to Scranton. Over forty kids, teens and adults from the area participated in the cast recording and even more performed in the fully staged show the following season. Through that production, they met so many children and families who were looking for a high quality performing arts program. CaPAA of NEPA offers classes in theater, music and dance and productions throughout the year for kids, teens and adults as well as a vibrant 9-week summer camp program.

Testimonials

My son has been at CaPAA for a few years now and all I can say is WOW! From the first time he stepped into the doors he was welcomed with open arms and felt so involved in all aspects of everything they do. He first started with their plays (which is his absolute favorite) he loves the energy and immediate response from the audience! Then he got involved in acting techniques and some dancing and singing. Because of his start at CaPAA, he has done films, commercials, TV shows, PSA’s and modeling! We owe a lot to Sheri and Mike and our CaPAA family

Lisa W.

My daughter, Jolie started with CaPAA when she was just 6 years old as a little orphan in Annie Jr. She is just days away from 10. It’s amazing how much she has grown in these last few years with the acting and singing instruction she has received at CaPAA. These years of having the most fun, building great friendships and developing lifelong skills while at CaPAA will surely go down as some of the best years of our lives!

Katy C.

When I started my daughter at CaPAA, I thought it would be where she would learn to sing, act, and dance within the theater world. Little did I know, it would become a place where friendships are forged and my family has increased by several hundred. CaPAA is beyond amazing, with an incredibly talented, supportive, and loving staff. We couldn’t be happier.

Carole M.

Our son’s music teacher suggested we try a CaPAA summer camp, and we were blown away. Our 9 year old son immediately fell in love with CaPAA and couldn’t wait to sign up for the next show. The staff and environment at the theater is beyond professional. Our teenage daughter saw how happy her brother was, so she decided to give CaPAA a try. She has now also found her home on stage at CaPAA . =We couldn’t ask for a better place to send our children to learn and have fun!

Erika W.

My daughter has been involved with CaPAA for 5 years. She cannot wait to go to rehearsals as she feels completely comfortable with her castmates and with all of the staff that run the programs. She has found a place that not only teaches her the skills of theater and dance but also how to work with a team. She has said she loves CaPAA and that it is like her home.

As a parent, I am blown away by the professional way the programs are run. From the audition process to the rehearsals, to the way the children are taught and treated is incredible. The staff treat the children as young professionals and with respect and teach them to be respectful of others and themselves. The shows are amazing and so well put together in such a short period of time. I would highly recommend CaPAA for any child interested in theater and /or dance. What a wonderful atmosphere of a kind, caring professionals. I’m so happy to be a part of the CaPAA family.

Jennifer A.

If someone told me 15 years ago that my first-born was not going to play sports, I would’ve laughed and certainly doubted them. My son tried so many different things, but it wasn’t until he walked through the doors at the Ritz, for a Summer Camp at CaPAA in August of 2018, that he found his niche. The staff at CaPAA saw something in him, and truly believed in him, and he hasn’t looked back since! He has been in several shows and has found a home up on that stage! CaPAA has been so welcoming to him. The staff has pushed him to be the best that he can be. His confidence has soared and we have never seen him happier. The arts are a whole new world to us, but I have to say that they have opened not only our ears and our eyes, but also our hearts! I know this is mostly about our son, but our daughter also goes to CaPAA and loves to shine on that stage too!!! We are forever grateful to CaPAA for all that they have done for not only our kids, but all of the CaPPA kids!!!

Leanne S.