How we started

The NoDa School of Arts was found by Amanda Bullen and a cadre of community collaborators in 2005. Currently, the organization is governed by a volunteer board of directors and has received not-for-profit status with the federal government.

The vision of the NoDa School of Arts became a reality in July 2005 with the pilot of Talent Exposed, an intensive four-week summer camp that explored for core arts disciplines (visual art, dance, drama, and vocal music). Program activities continue throughout the school year in each of the four arts disciplines. While the NoDa School of Arts is rooted in the belief that all youth have God-given talents, students, instructors, and board members are not required to adhere to sectarian beliefs.

Brief Timeline of what we have done

Summer 2005
Schoolhouse Rock, Jr.

Fall 2005
Musical Theatre, African Dance, and Fine Art Classes

Spring 2006
Theatre classes at the Boys and Girls Club and Johnston YMCA

Summer 2006
Aladdin, Jr.

Fall 2006
Book making class for children in Uganda and Christmas workshop

Spring 2007
Pews on Parade

Summer 2007
Annie, Jr.

Fall 2007      
Mixed Media, Theater, and Voice classes at Villa Heights Elementary