Created in 2013, for over a decade CFVA’s Summer Institute has aimed to provide youth artists in Orlando and Central Florida with a holistic performing arts training experience.
Despite earning both undergraduate and graduate degrees in music education and vocal performance, CFVA founder Theresa Smith-Levin discovered that she—and many of her peers—were under-equipped for the realities of a modern performing arts career. While her vocal training was exceptional, her formal education lacked critical components such as acting, dance, and technical theatre. Smith-Levin recognized that today’s performers must be versatile, entrepreneurial, and adaptable. She envisioned an organization that would fill these gaps and empower the next generation of artists.
From its early days, CFVA has been committed not just to artistic excellence, but to developing well-rounded performers and arts leaders.
The Summer Institute is more than a theater camp, it’s an immersive, interdisciplinary program where young artists can grow in their craft, build confidence, and explore the full spectrum of the performing arts in a nurturing, innovative environment.
In just one transformative week, Summer Institute empowers students to conceptualize and stage an original musical theatre production—written, designed, and performed entirely by them. From scripting dialogue and crafting sets to designing costumes and stepping into the spotlight, every student plays a vital role in bringing a shared vision to life. In addition, each participant performs a solo in a dedicated voice recital, nurturing self-confidence, stage presence, and a deep sense of accomplishment. Beyond technical skills, the experience builds community and self-efficacy, setting the foundation for both artistic and personal growth.
Central Florida Vocal Arts is proud to foster an inclusive, welcoming environment where every student is seen and celebrated. LGBTQ+ youth, neurodivergent students, and those with differing abilities all find a creative home at Summer Institute. Diversity isn’t just welcomed—it’s honored as a core value of the program. Students are encouraged to embrace their authentic selves and explore their creativity without limits.
Since the program’s inception in 2013, CFVA has upheld a powerful promise: no student will ever be turned away due to financial need. With a 100% scholarship award record, Summer Institute has remained accessible to all. In 2020, CFVA deepened this commitment through a strategic partnership with Orange County Public Schools, expanding scholarship opportunities for students attending Title I schools. With the understanding that BIPOC families are disproportionately impacted by economic inequality, CFVA continues to prioritize outreach and intentionally dismantle access barriers—building a more equitable pipeline for the next generation of professional talent in the arts.
Summer Institute registration is now open, with enrollment limited to just 50 students per session to ensure personalized instruction and a high-quality experience for every participant. Scholarships remain available for those with financial need, continuing CFVA’s mission to make arts education accessible, inclusive, and transformational.
Prophesy's Summer Institute Story
My name is Prophesy Baker, I’m 17 years old, and I’ve been a part of the Central Florida Vocal Arts family for several years.
This organization has impacted me substantially and I hope to share more about my experience participating in CFVA’s Summer Institute program.
I learned about CFVA’s Summer Institute as a freshman when CFVA’s voice teachers came for a school visit. They described Summer Institute as an amazing one-week camp to grow your voice, make new friends, and find the confidence to perform and step out of your comfort zone. Little did I know, Summer Institute would do so much more than that.
At first, I thought I wouldn’t have this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity due to my financial constraints, but after learning about the scholarships they offered, I was able to apply and my application was accepted. I was so relieved to know that my finances wouldn’t hinder me from participating in this opportunity and that the program finds solutions to aid with any conflict that students may face.
When I started high school, I had lost all confidence. I just moved from Tallahassee, FL and freshman year was a little too “fresh” for my own comfort. I’ll admit it, I was definitely the quiet kid. Although I had much to say and talent to share, my mouth stayed closed, and my true self was hidden. The Summer before sophomore year, my self-confidence and my performance capabilities were deteriorating. Summer institute gave me the opportunity to breathe life into a part of me that I was unfortunately letting go of. With my last ounce of hope, I walked through the doors with all I had to give.
After preparing my audition for Summer Institute, my 15-year-old self showed up with no clue what would happen. I walked into a room filled with kids my age, and honestly, it was a little terrifying. I locked eyes with a guy, and he smiled at me. I sat down beside him, timidly introducing myself. I asked him his name, and he said, “Diego.” I didn’t know it at the time, but Diego would grow to be one of my favorite people to see at Summer Institute. He was the first to accept me with open arms after CFVA, and so many new friends and teachers would do the same in years to come.
The best plants grow when they’re placed in the right soil and given the resources that they need. In this case, Central Florida Vocal Arts gave and continues to give me everything I need in order to grow as an individual.
Throughout these last three years of attending Summer Institute, I’ve grown exponentially as an individual, embodying confidence in a way I could never imagine.
I can make my dreams and goals. It all started with this organization. I can thank them for that for the rest of my life.
