At Venice High School, heading back to school also means coming back to the Venice Performing Arts Center (VPAC)—a place where students can learn, create, connect, and take the stage.

For more than a decade, the Venice Institute for Performing Arts Management (VIPAM), the nonprofit manager of the VPAC, has welcomed students to campus and invited juniors and seniors to explore careers in the performing arts.

Through a unique partnership with the Sarasota County School District, Venice High School, and the City of Venice, VIPAM delivers an exceptional experience for VPAC users, brings live music to our community, and prepares students for the future through its innovative Apprenticeship Program.

100 Apprentices—and Counting!

The VIPAM Apprenticeship Program bridges the gap between classroom learning and career readiness by giving high school students paid, hands-on experience in theatre production. Apprentices train in lighting, sound, rigging, front-of-house operations, box office management, hospitality, and audio-visual technology while working alongside industry professionals.

This immersive “Education Lab” builds practical skills, confidence, and awareness of career and higher-education pathways. Students also strengthen communication, collaboration, leadership, and creative problem-solving—abilities they can carry into any field. We are excited to welcome our next 100 apprentices!

Live Music for Our Community

VIPAM also produces an annual concert season of 20 shows, including tributes to beloved artists such as the Janis Joplin, Aretha, and Creedence Clearwater Revival.

Welcome back, Venice High School students—we can’t wait to see what you create at the VPAC!

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