When I first walked through the front doors of the International Performing Arts Academy, I wasn't really expecting anything. All I knew is that I was there for a free class of how the entertainment industry works. Once the class was over, I wanted to learn more, so my mom signed me up for modeling, acting, singing, and dance. Initially I wasn't going to do all four, but I'm glad I did. I remember specific things I learned in those classes to this day and I made friends that I still keep in touch with today as well. Little did I know, that I would later be going to Hollywood and performing in front of a bunch of agents and managers showcasing my skill. By attending the International Performing Arts Academy, we got a chance to talk with industry professionals and received the experiences of what it would be like to actually work professionally as a model, actor, singer, or dancer. There were also specific classes for parents, and what the parents should be prepared for as their child flourishes in the industry. As a student, I got to experience photo shoots, auditions, and interviews and what to be prepared for when you step into an agencies office or if you meet with an agent. We even had to dress nicely! We had to wear what we "would wear" if we when out on auditions. The International Performing Arts Academy still stays with me today. Even if you don't plan on becoming a movie star or a professional model, the International Performing Arts Academy teaches you proper manners. For me personally, I have simply improved on my day to day walking. Now when I walk to the mall or anywhere, I take into consideration how I walk. I know this may sound silly, but I really do. Also when I eat at a restaurant, I pay attention to my etiquette. When I'm just sitting or standing, I pay attention to my body language. I have basically realized that your actions speak louder than your words. My favorite class was any class that Ms. Bernie taught. I had her for modeling, dance, and I also had three singing classes with her. Ms. Bernie is the best. She doesn't sugar coat anything and basically tells you how it is. If you did a bad job, she's not going to tell you that it was decent because she'll tell you that it was bad and that you should do it again. In modeling class, if you didn't do something right, Ms. Bernie would make you do it again and again until you got it right. When I first started modeling class I was really bad at proper runway walking and at posing. In fact I was one of the worst! After 6 months and after the classes were over, I was one of the best at walking and posing. It was the same for all my other classes I took as well. I ended up improving a ton and especially on the little things. You may not realize it now, but it's the little things that make the biggest difference and it's the little things that really make you stand out from everyone else. The most important thing though is that you have to believe in yourself and never give up. Never let someone tell you that you're not good enough or that you're never going to make it. Just keep at it and keep doing what you're doing because whatever you believe, you become. read more

My daughter had been scouted by Amy twice within a few months in Chicago. The first time (Walmart) we weren't able to make it, but when the same woman approached us in a different location (Sephora) I thought it was a sign.. possibly. I begrudgingly took the bus ride down to the John Hancock Center. I wasn't completely sold on the idea of my child being scouted because I know how these "get discovered" gimmicks work. However, I risked it and did it anyway. Upon arrival we signed in with ease and waited about 15 mins for the process to begin. Once the 6pm group was seen they had a 20 minute introduction done by a "graduate" of the program. She put on a video and then later gave lessons on how to slate and the do's and don'ts of whatever. She vaguely and briefly mentioned that if your child is selected there would be a tuition for the 6 month program, okay cool. However, she failed to stipulate that there was a registration fee due on THAT day. If she had mentioned this prior to us being called, I would have marched my broke ass right out of there to avoid wasting anyone's time. Once the director Diane called us we sat in the office with her for HOURS, while she drilled the idea of the being a star in my daughter's head.. LOL. I'm blindly listening to all of what they had to offer because again I didn't know about the $1000 registration fee that she would soon slap me on the forehead with. They of course loved her and the director that interviewed us had all of these wonderful things to say.. until I said I couldn't pay what they were asking up front! I thought I had just witnessed an exorcism the way she switched gears so fast! Whew! She started saying I should stop shopping and buying makeup at Sephora so that I could invest in my child's education. She took my appearance and assumed that I had money and was literally trying to force me into buying into their scam. Little did she know everything I wore was from the clearance rack at Target and Burlington.. HA! I'm sorry I'm a savvy shopper and know how to put things together well. She also took the fact that I work as an Analyst and tried to use it against me. Because in her mind, she figured I had to be making a lot of money working at a prestigious financial institution. Anyway, before she dismissed us, she accused me of being unprofessional and said I had wasted her time.. of which she got paid for all 3 hours. She clearly has no real life concept of when someone says they don't have $1000 lying around because they have bills!!!! Needless to say, they need to be more upfront about their policies and intentions before they go coercing people into falling for their "scouted" bs. read more

1. Expectations coming into the program We, as parents, expected to receive excellent instructions in performance arts to enhance Quentin's goals. Looking for 1-1 instructions from experts in the industry and to see the development of Quentin into a fine young gentleman with the skills and strategies needed to aspire to his goals. I, Quentin, expected to learn what is needed to meet my goal of becoming an actor and a model. I also expected to develop talents that I believed I possessed as I entered IPAA. 2. What you as a parent/talent/both got out of it Talent: "I believe I received the foundation needed to use my talents and move forward toward my goal and achieve success." Parents: "IPAA increased the knowledge and experiences needed to assure Quentin that he is on the right path to his goal. We have observed his determination to do his best in his daily activities. We are very pleased with the results we are seeing with Quentin. 3. How it's affected the talent's day to day life Parent: "Quentin became more focused, more self-confidence and self-assurance in his daily activities, and did not mind at all showing his acquired improvements in speaking, often volunteering to recite memorized excerpts in his English class at school, and overall has shown pride in his accomplishments." Talent: "I feel I am getting closer and closer to my goal each day as I implement what I have learned through my experience in IPAA. So, each day I am feeling good within about my improvements as I move towards my goal." 4. Your favorite class My favorite class was Acting, because this was something I have always wanted to do for a long time. IPAA gave me the arena to realize that if I continue to work hard and strive toward my goal it can become a reality. 5. Any work you've done beyond IPAA and how your training helped you in completing/being successful in it! Although I have not had the experience of acting in a movie or play or modeling at this point, I feel my training at IPAA will insure that opportunity will be on my horizon very soon. Submitted by Q. A Leak read more

I am an actress and singer and I have the best answer for you: It is not a scam. Modeling, Acting, Singing or Dancing are the Arts. They are no different than an Ice Skater, Soccer Player, Olympian, Doctor, Lawyer, Architect, Hair Stylist, Teacher etc. Some people use it as a career & passion, others due it for fun. My aunt is a Drama teacher and she teaches at an acting school in Florida. She sees bad reviews from people saying her school is a scam just because there is a tuition to attend that school, ITS AN ACTING SCHOOL!  NO ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL TRAINING IS FREE. Is college free? Is your son or daughter's basketball team  training free? Is your daughter's ballet school free? Are your son's summer Take Kwon Do classes free? The only time its a scam is if a company is displayed as an AGENCY and asks for money. Then, you run! Finally: Look at the name of this place "INTERNATIONAL PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY" . Clearly it is an professional Arts school for those interested in the arts: aspiring actors,models, musicians, dancers. If you were scouted at a mall, that is normal. Believe it or not most of the famous people you see on TV were scouted. If you or your child was seen at a mall by a talent scout just ask for the information and do your research. If this Academy had scouts looking for students, they are smart. That means they have a specific casting type (hair color, height, age, ethnicity, gender) they are looking for. Scouts are well trained on   finding the right look or personality, or spark. Don't listen to what others say. Do your research. Learn. Understand. Give chances. You never know how it will change your life or your child's life. read more

We were introduced to the International Performing Arts Academy at a shopping mall. With no intentions at all we received a call back. Upon entering into the program our goal was to enhance our daughter Shaniyah's speaking skills as well as to improve her ability to take photographs to prepare for future auditions for modeling and/or acting. After completion of the program not only did Shaniyah conquer her stage freight, she developed auditioning do's and don'ts. She was also enlightened on cover letter and resume writing skills. The expertise our daughter was instructed at (IPA) has now given her the opportunity to be showcased at the Hollywood Showcase. An experience any parent would be proud of. Although the program was intended for talent, it was a learning experience for the parents as well. It was not easy detouring from our regular weekend activities however it was well worth it. On a typical weekend Shaniyah would watch TV shows and imagine of becoming a star. Now she is determined to do what it takes to be a star. Shaniyah's favorite part of the program was when she got the chance to develop a vision board. She was able to be creative as well as explore her future. Dreams are great but making those dreams come true takes planning, discipline and a vision. The International Performing Arts Academy gave us a chance that could relatively change our lives forever. At nine years old our daughter would have had the chance to experience something that some people will not get to experience in a lifetime. We are thankful for this opportunity. We are proud to say our daughter is the alumni of IPA! read more

This was my day basically.I mean I walked a runway,Performed a mono-lounge,commercial,and All of me by John Legend in one day.BRIEFLY I felt like a Cèłèbrity .Best Day ever.I encourage parents to put their children in the Ipaa cause It's going to give them a better look on what the industry really is.They teach you audition etiquette and even how to correctly make an actors resume followed by a cover letter.I know 2 in one!You won't be able to get the proper resume and cover letter off google!And also agencies will know if it's off the internet.Yea,I had fun in the experience a hundred percent no hands down.If I could do it over I would cause the benefits of attending are so beneficial.You get to comeback like an actual school.I loved taking headshots and model shoots.My favorite teachers ,more like instructors,were Ms.Bernie,Ms.Allison,Mr.Nick,Mr.Stephen,Mr.Jackson,Ms.Di Billock and really just all the staff because they pushed me to my limits.On the first day,Ipaa they broke my shell and pushed me even when I didn't want to be.I felt like giving up and they continued to be there for me.The connections with the staff is unbelivable.I use to love having real conversations with Ms.Bernie,Mr.Nick,Ms.Allson and many more.You'll be more confident and if you are confident it will boost it.I use to be more soft spoken but now I'm more out going and not afraid to be myself where ever I am!!But it's definetly the best school I've attended. read more

Bianca: The Performing Arts Academy is a really good school to start learning how to model act sing or dance. I really enjoyed their modeling course, it help me a lot to stay focus and I have self-confidence. The teachers and staff were really helpful and always there if you needed them for anything. My favorite class was the make up class. I've had the opportunity to be on the cover of a magazine, model dresses for a Quinceañera Expo, and recently I was chosen to be featured in be another magazine for other Quinceñera dresses. It wouldn't have been possible without the help of Ms. Bernie. Ms. Bernie is a really wonderful teacher that has always. Even there to help, guide and support every step of the way, Thank you Ms Bernie!! Patty: As Bianca's mom, I've really seen how much Bianca has enjoyed her classes, she has learned so much and is more confident in her self, she looks forward to every class and is enthusiastic every time, when she has been to a casting, I see how much confidence she has and it shows, I love watching her walk the runway! Thanks Ms. Bernie for all your advice read more

In 2012, I was scouted and was eventually admitted into the program (which was just basic training like walking, and learning the different types of modeling). At the time I didn't realize the cost of the school, otherwise I would have not done it for the sake of my family! The things that were promised such as the "Hollywood showcase" and the glamorous 4 outfits were only available if you went on to pay $5000+. Not only that, but you would have to purchase your own outfits and etc. The hairstylist, make up artist, and photographers that did the head shots and helped in other events were not even real or certified, they were the actual instructors of the training program! They also say makeup is included; however, it was just 2 cheap makeup palettes worth less than $10 (not even a legit brand of makeup). The only good about this experience was just the John Hancock view every week and maybe, just maybe the little confidence boost! But other than that, I would say don't waste your money, it's just a scam! Also, the rest of the reviews seem embellished! read more

My 8 year old daughter (and wife...I was not present) was "scouted" by a well dressed energetic 40 something women in a shopping mall. My daughter was approached with all kinds of compliments and then asked "if she would like to audition this weekend" at the Chicago IPPA studio . THIS WAS THE CLASSIC BAIT AND SWITCH...which was easily revealed shortly after we arrived at IPAA through minor observations. When I asked someone if this was an audition or a solicitation I was told an "audition". Then I asked more clearly if I would be asked for money or tuition from IPPA. Then and only then with great hesitation did the women say "this is a Preforming Arts Academy and there would be tuition for preparing your child for the performing arts". I conclude this organization's sales practices to be the scum of the earth...preying on the emotions of children to achieve financial gain. BEWARE WHEN A PERSON OR PERSONS APPROACH YOUR CHILDREN WITH FLATTERY...HOLD ON TO YOUR WALLET!!! read more

The reviews are right when it comes to the scams and cancellations. I called and persons voice mail was full so I had to call the main line, I left a message regarding the cancellation with janet because of a death in the family they said they would try and see what they could do. I sent a certified letter after the 3 day period but I spoke with a lady named poala, freaking rude!! Would not give me my refund because she said I signed the contract. I explained that I never signed the contract and that the contract was in another name was not my name, but she wouldn't listen. They state that education is a priority, but they are denying my son the refund for his for college. The contract states if its after the 3 days the 495.00 is to the school and any unused will be refunded in 30 days. Shame on you performing arts!!! Lies, lies!!!! I will not rest until I get my money for my son's college tuition for registration. I will post on yelp, google, facebook, Twitter etc... read more

Hello! My name is Amanda Miranda and I am a student at IPAA and I would have to say my experience was wonderful! I will be graduating on Saturday December 6 and I am pretty sure I am well prepared because of all the teachings IPAA has given me. I would also like to add that my instructor, Diego Villarreal was very supportive and taught me very well. I am more confident and more open with being myself. Although I am too short to be a model, the students they have inspired me that I can't let myself down and that my heart is tall, so if I push myself through I may be notice and inspire others with a new attitude and face. I'd recommend IPAA for anyone - - any age that is willing to contribute time and heart to the commercial world like I am. I love everyone at IPAA they're so friendly and giving. Wish me luck at my graduation! I wish the future IPAA the best and well being! read more

Ipaa has been a great adventure for me. I have had stuggles as well as accomplishments there. Ipaa isn't just a ordinary modeling/acting school. Ipaa teaches you to love yourself, builds you to have confidence helps you understand the business of modeling and acting. I'm really appreciative of Ipaa because if it wasn't for them i dont think i would have been able to speak in front of people so comfortably. Ipaa has made me think bigger outside the box thanks to the teachers there. The teachers are great there, they have so much faith in everyone and they help you a lot even when you dont understand something they will put it in a way that you will understand. Im almost graduating and all i can say i loved the days i had there. Therfore i totally recommend this place for anyone who is looking to learn or trying to get ahead in the carrer of modeling and acting. read more

IPAA has been an amazing experience! Not only for my sister (as a student) but for our family as well. All of the acting, modeling, & singing teachers go above & beyond to train IPAA students the skills & abilities they all need to maintain & fulfill their life long dream. Oh! & you mustn't forget about the National Directors. Without them, there wouldn't be an academy. Whereas, THEY are the ones to decide who is the next big star :D I, personally, have been thinking about going in for training in modeling. The environment is so welcoming, there is no way you'd leave out of a class disappointed! If you are somebody who is passionate about performing arts, this is definitely the #1 place to consider!! read more

I absolutely love being a student at the International Performing Arts Academy. It was such a positive experience for me, and I learned a lot about modeling, the overall business of it, and even myself. In just three hours every other weekend, I would walk out of there with a little bit more confidence. I also loved just going downtown for the classes in general, and the fact that they were held at the John Hancock most days is pretty cool too. The teachers are so much fun, and my classmates were easy to get along with and easy to quickly be comfortable around. Taking classes at the IPAA has definitely made a positive impact on my life, and I'm sure it will be of great use somehow in the future. read more

My niece has been attending IPAA for the past 6 months and her whole look on life has changed. I know you're probably thinking to yourself, "yeah right, that's just a little to much" but its the truth. IPAA teachs their students how to introduce, speak, walk, and overall how to carry yourself in the world. First impressions are everything. My niece started to walk more confident, look directly to the person she is speaking to. IPAA also works with the families and makes sure that we are fully on board with all the appointments, classes, photo shoots. etc. Its an amazing school !!!!! read more

I love the IPAA, my 10 year old son and I were very excited when we received a call from one of the recruiters; Tony back in Feb 2014, since then my son loves attending the modeling and acting class. The instructors have been great with the kids with teaching them how to improve their talents. The environment is very welcoming and one important quality I also like about the IPAA is the multicultural and diverse students that work together in one setting. I can't wait for graduation and the future opportunities that IPAA has prepared Ayomide to tab into. Lola. read more

IPAA has been of great help to get to learn a lot about the modelling world. You're being taught by professionals with broad experience in their field, which helps you get a real, updated vision on how to be successful in your area of interest. My teacher was great, she really helped me to learn and perfect my walk, was very patient and I could ask how many questions I needed to. Furthermore, you get to work on your acting, which really helps in the modelling work, especially in the commercial area, where I actually want to have my career. read more

The International Performing Arts Academy was a excellent experience for both my daughter and I. Allowing my daughter to attend the academy provided her with necessary skills to begin or aspire to begin a modeling career. It also provided me with insider information that is priceless. I highly recommend IPAA for parents and children interested in training for entertainment industry with the added benefit of boosting the student's self esteem and self confidence. read more

The International Performing Arts Academy has been great in increasing the confidence of my daughter. She is no longer as shy and she is willing to try new things. The staff is always great! They are approachable and they are willing to help with anything. What I loved about the program was that if for some reason we would not be able to attend class. The staff would be great in giving us options in which we could make them up. read more