Baker Day School
The Naples Players’ Academy of Dramatic Arts
The Naples Players is home to The Baker Day School of the TNPAcademy of Dramatic Arts, the region’s only full-time academic arts program. It marks a major step forward for arts education in Southwest Florida. Building on the strength of our long-standing TNPAcademy classes and camps, the Baker Day School offers middle and high school students a deeper, more focused academic and artistic path. It gives young artists a place to learn, train, and thrive every day in a setting built for creativity and growth.
What Makes The Baker Day School Unique?
Academic Excellence
Students complete coursework through Florida Virtual School (FLVS), supported by experienced faculty on campus, personalized academic plans, and SAT/ACT prep. This flexible model ensures that students can pursue a wide variety of academic pathways without limiting their opportunities.
Expert Leadership
The Full-Time Program has been developed and led by seasoned independent school administrator Steven Caruso, in partnership with Jennifer Price, Director of Education at The Naples Players.
Integrated Arts Training
In-depth instruction in acting, directing, musical theatre, dance, voice, design, and technical production—taught by professional teaching artists including TNP’s Artistic Directors Dawn Lebrecht Fornara, Charles Fornara, and Phillip Fazio.
Creative Community
Students build confidence and leadership through collaboration, mentorship, and performance in a supportive environment.
College Connections
Benefit from our established internship program and relationships with top university theatre programs.
Schedule a tour or arrange a shadow day for your student
There’s no better way to understand the Baker Day School experience than to step inside it. Tour the campus, meet our faculty, see classes in motion, and feel the creative energy firsthand. Or give your student the chance to spend a full day with us through a shadow experience to see what life at Baker Day School is really like.
Open Enrollment Application
Enrollment is limited to ensure a high-quality, personalized experience. We invite students in middle school and high school who are seeking a blend of academic rigor and artistic passion to apply.
Please note that an audition and academic review will be part of the admissions process.
FAQ's
For the 2025/2026 School Year, tuition is $18,000, which includes arts instruction, materials, production fees, and academic support.
Yes. Monthly payment plans are available. Monthly payments are due August 15, September 15, November 15, February 15, and April 15. We’re happy to work with families to ensure finances are never a barrier to participation.
Yes. Families are also encourages to apply for funding through Florida’s Step Up for Students and PEP programs. We also offer need-based aid and merit scholarships. We encourage parents to have an active dialogue with the school, as no family should be turned away due to financial need.
