The Memphis Performing Arts Academy (MPAC) has cut the ribbon on its second location, a beautiful, state‑of‑the‑art facility designed to serve more students and families across the city.
The academy celebrated its grand opening on Saturday, June 21, at 8146 East Shelby Dr.
With the expansion, MPAC is opening its doors wider than ever before, making room for an even larger and more diverse group of students. Since its founding in August 2024, MPAC has more than doubled its enrollment, growing from an original 150 students to nearly 500 students today. That number is increasing daily, with MPAC enrolling up to 20 new students per day as families across the city seek opportunities for their children to learn, create and thrive.
The new space allows MPAC to build upon its mission of nurturing young minds by combining strong academics with performing arts including piano, drums, dance, gymnastics, taekwondo and visual arts. The academy’s first location at New Direction Church (6120 Winchester Road), laid the foundation for this remarkable growth.
The ribbon‑cutting ceremony celebrated community and possibility, with hundreds of students, families, staff and local leaders coming together for the moment. The event featured inspiring performances by MPAC students and a moving guest performance by gospel recording artist Wess Morgan.
“We’re so grateful for this new chapter and for the chance to make an even greater impact for our students and families,” said Quinton Cox, MPAC founder and CEO.
“We’ve built this academy to give children a space where learning can be inspired by the arts, where math can come alive through music, discipline can be learned through dance and every child can find a way to connect and express themselves,” Cox said.
Cox is a passionate educator and musician who knows from personal experience just how life‑changing the arts can be. As an alum of Memphis‑Shelby County Schools and LeMoyne‑Owen College, Cox discovered music as a way to overcome academic struggles and build discipline, focus and confidence.
“I wasn’t a natural when it came to academics,” Cox shared. “But when I discovered music, something clicked,” he stated. “The arts taught me focus and gave me a way to connect to learning. That’s what I want to give every child who walks through our doors — a chance to find their voice, build resilience and unlock their unique gifts.”
With its new facility and expanded programming, Cox said MPAC is poised to continue nurturing talent in an even more inspiring space.
For families interested in enrolling their children, MPAC offers an easy way to secure a spot. For more information on MPAC, parents or students can text “secure my child seat” to (901) 848‑7625. Registration is open for students in Pre‑K through 7th grade.
