Student Spotlight: Oliver Rios

When 9-year-old Oliver Rios steps on stage, he feels like he’s famous. 

Oliver has been a student at Dr. Phillips Center’s AdventHealth School of the Arts since 2024, where he’s participated in multiple programs and discovered a love for musical theatre. From his first day, he knew he’d found a place where he could grow.

“One thing I love about the school is that it has always been very welcoming, even from my first day,” Oliver says. 

After gaining experience through several AdventHealth School of the Arts programs, Oliver was ready to continue building his skills and take on a new challenge. When Dr. Phillips Center introduced Eighth Notes, a new year-round musical theatre program for students in third through fifth grade, Oliver jumped at the opportunity to audition. 

For Oliver, each program has helped him become a stronger performer and gain the confidence to take on the audition process.

“Performing makes me feel like I can do anything, whether I’m at school or learning to do something for the first time,” he says. “The teachers have really helped me in my passion for musical theatre and I've learned so much from them.” 

Eighth Notes gives young performers like Oliver the opportunity to continue developing that passion. The program provides year-round training in acting, singing and dance through weekly ensemble rehearsals, helping students build essential musical theatre skills while learning the importance of collaboration, storytelling and stage presence. 

Students also have access to specialized opportunities including masterclasses, audition preparation and personalized coaching, giving them the tools and confidence to continue growing as performers. 

For Oliver, there is always something new to learn. He is looking forward to continuing to improve his singing, dancing and acting skills while spending more time doing what he loves most: performing. 

Learn more about programs offered at AdventHealth School of the Arts or  sign up for a class here.