APO Arts Academy has been training performers on Bank Street in South Melbourne for more than 30 years, offering industry-focused vocational courses across musical theatre, acting and dance. Programs include the Advanced and Foundation Programs in Musical Theatre, short courses and dedicated dance courses, all built around practical, performance-based training backed up by allied studies and theory. Entry into the musical theatre programs is by audition and interview, reflecting the academy's focus on preparing students for the demands of professional stage, dance and entertainment work. The academy's Bank Street premises include seven fully equipped dance studios and music rooms, dressing rooms with showers and lockers, digital recording studios and a video reference library, and the space is also available for studio hire. APO alumni have gone on to perform in major musical theatre productions including Wicked, High School Musical, Mary Poppins and Rock of Ages, as well as further study at other institutions. APO Arts Academy operates as part of the same broader organisation behind Dance World Studios, which runs from the same 295 Bank Street address and shares APO's junior and teen dance programming. A linked talent agency, Colors Entertainment, also connects graduating students with industry work. The academy runs regular open days and audition sessions for prospective students throughout the year.