Jefferson Performing Arts

Founded in 1978 by Maestro Dennis G. Assaf and Hannah Cunningham, the Jefferson Performing Arts Society is a non-profit professional arts organization whose mission is to promote arts performance, training, and outreach by providing a diverse range of quality programs that entertain, educate and enrich the cultural and economic vitality of Jefferson Parish, Greater New Orleans and the Gulf South.

JPAS focuses on three main elements:

Performance: JPAS annually provides a wide range of theatrical performances that appeal to many interests and age groups. Most seasons include a selection of grand opera, musical theater, dance and music. JPAS strives to network and partner with national and international artists and companies to bring new and diverse programming to the Southern Region.

Training: JPAS provides performance and technical based training in the arts for all ages with a particular focus on young people.

Outreach: JPAS provides arts education programming in local area schools, as well as access to professional theatrical experiences that align to classroom curricula and Louisiana Content Standards, including Arts Adventure Series, Cultural Crossroads and Stage Without A Theatre. JPAS provides performers, musicians, artistic experiences and expertise to select area events and organizations to enrich the community.

The Jefferson Performing Arts Society Believes:

• In the positive power of the arts in the community as a tool for education, expression, cultural understanding and overall improvement of quality of life.
• In the role of the arts as an economic stimulus in the community.
• It is important to provide artistic outlets and opportunities for both amateur and professional artists.
• The arts can draw attention and involve those within communities while nurturing cooperative ties across all borders