Croton Academy Of Arts

The Croton Academy of Arts was founded in 2003, by two theater professionals, Catherine Riedel and Myrlin Valerio, to help teens develop their self-expression and individuality through creative exploration.

Our initial program, The Croton Academy of Comedic Arts (dubbed "caca") began with a class of 18 curious Croton students. Soon, the expanding program found space for classes and rehearsals in local church basements. Performances were staged in village auditoriums and restaurants, and caca troupes traveled to schools, shelters, and other area venues for benefit performances.

Initially focused on improv and sketch comedy, Croton Academy has grown to include musical and non musical plays,  summer camps, teen rep theatre, adult improv classes, as well as becoming a licensed after school program for the Village of Croton.

In 2012, after years of nomadic existence, CAA opened a 2500 sf studio at 8 Old Post Road South in Croton on Hudson, NY.