Business Details
35 Years
experience
Premier Arts Education for All Ages in Mansfield, OH
Founded in 1991, Richland Academy of the Arts has served as a cornerstone for artistic development in Richland County and surrounding areas. Our institution provides comprehensive arts education across five core disciplines: dance, music, theatre, martial arts, and visual arts, catering to over 3,000 students annually. With a team of professionally qualified instructors and a 47,000-square-foot ADA-compliant facility, we combine technical training with character development in a family-friendly environment. Our 30-year legacy includes awarding $652,000 in tuition assistance and operating Ohio's only arts-focused community schools program. We maintain partnerships with the Ohio Arts Council and local sponsors while offering facility rentals for cultural events. Our commitment to accessibility is demonstrated through free senior classes, bilingual programming, and scholarship opportunities funded by community donations.
Services
Dance Classes
Music Lessons
Theatre Programs
Martial Arts Training
Visual Arts Workshops
Community Schools
Adult Education
Early Learning
Facility Rentals
Tuition Assistance
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of arts education excellence in Richland County
- 47,000 sq ft ADA-compliant facility with professional-grade studios
- Awarded $652,000 in tuition assistance to local families
- Instructors hold advanced degrees and industry certifications
- Operates Ohio's only arts-focused community schools program
What people say
Profound impact on my life
Loves her instructors
So fun and my favorite place
Amazing instructors
Enriches lives of all ages
Services
Dance Classes
Our dance program teaches technical proficiency while developing mental discipline and performance skills. Students learn ballet, tap, modern, hip-hop, and salsa in age-appropriate classes. The curriculum builds confidence and coordination through structured technique training and creative expression opportunities.
Music Lessons
Offering vocal and instrumental instruction for all skill levels, our music program develops musicality and technical mastery. Students access private lessons and group classes in piano, guitar, and other instruments. The curriculum emphasizes both individual progress and collaborative performance experiences.
Theatre Programs
Our theatre program develops performance skills through script analysis, character development, and stage production experience. Students participate in full-scale productions while learning public speaking, teamwork, and creative problem-solving. The curriculum accommodates all experience levels from beginners to advanced performers.
Martial Arts Training
The martial arts program teaches American Kenpo Karate techniques for self-defense and personal growth. Students develop physical coordination, mental focus, and self-discipline through structured belt progression system. Classes emphasize practical applications while fostering confidence and character development.
Visual Arts Workshops
Our visual arts program offers instruction in painting, drawing, and mixed media techniques. Students explore creative expression through structured projects and individual experimentation. The curriculum accommodates all skill levels with specialized instruction for both youth and adult learners.
People
Erin Wolford
Dance Instructor
Professional dance instructor with 10+ years experience teaching at Richland Academy. Specializes in ballet and contemporary styles while mentoring students in performance techniques and artistic development.
Sheri Hughes
Director of RAA Community Schools
21-year Richland Academy veteran with educational leadership experience. Oversees community school operations and compliance while managing facility development projects for the Mansfield campus.
Dr. India Ford
Academics Lead
Educational reform expert with 20+ years in urban education. Holds doctorate in Urban Education and specializes in charter school development. Leads academic programming for Richland's community school initiatives.
Maria Beery
English Learner Instruction
Theatre education specialist with master's degrees in curriculum instruction and TESOL. Develops inclusive arts education programs and presents nationally on autism and arts education integration strategies.
Pamela Schreiner
Special Education
28-year education veteran specializing in special needs programming. Holds graduate degrees in educational leadership and works to establish new support systems for students with diverse learning requirements.
Questions
What age groups do your programs serve?
We offer classes for all ages from birth through senior citizens, including specialized early learning programs and free senior classes.
Are scholarships available for arts education?
Yes, we award over $30,000 annually in tuition assistance and maintain the Dick Barkdull Memorial Music Scholarship for qualifying students.
Do you offer community school programs?
We sponsor 10 Ohio community schools focusing on arts integration, bilingual education, and college preparation for K-12 students.
Are your facilities accessible for disabled patrons?
Our 47,000 sq ft building is fully ADA compliant with elevator access and adaptable learning spaces for all physical needs.
Can I rent your facility for events?
Yes, we offer rental spaces for cultural events, performances, and community gatherings in our centrally located Mansfield facility.
How do I apply for classes?
Registration is available online through our website or by visiting our Mansfield campus at 75 North Walnut Street.
Videos
Reviews (7)
Samantha McCune Logue
May 13, 2019
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everyone is so nice. my daughters teacher, Sara is so good with the kids and has so much patience. We have been coming here for 3 years and will continue to for many years to come.
Lorena Daugherty
Jan 30, 2019
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My grandson is in Kenpo martial arts with Jason Farnsworth as instructor.
Derek has been in Jason's class for 3 years. It is great to see the kids learning and earning belts with Jason.
Derek has been in Jason's class for 3 years. It is great to see the kids learning and earning belts with Jason.
Kari Baker
Sep 27, 2017
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My daughter takes two different dance classes and piano lessons at the academy. Three different instructors, and all three of them are amazing! She loves the academy, her instructors, and the many friends she has made. The families I have met are wonderful and the staff are top notch. Classes are affordable. The front desk is always helpful. Recitals are amazing and the skills that are developed in the older dancers are incredible. I would recommend the academy to anyone of any age.
Jerry Rose
Aug 16, 2017
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Wonderful place for children to learn, I know of several children who have benefited greatly from the classes here. They take already talented children and make them better and take beginners into intermediate levels based on their personal skills and abilities.
Nieta Boyce
Aug 10, 2017
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My granddaughter absolutely loves the dance academy. She is in ballet and jazz. She looks forward to going every week. The teachers are are so patient and wonderful to all the children.
Brandy Dodd
Jan 19, 2017
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My daughter just started art classes and she loves it. This is out first time there and it's been great so far. Looking forward to my kids participating in more activities there!
Keith Stoner
The enthusiasm is infectious for those who frequent the Academy. You can see it in the faces of the employees, the volunteers and the children--of all ages.