Opening Act Youth Company
MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD. TELL YOUR STORY. TAKE THE STAGE.
The Opening Act Youth Company (OAYC) is your chance to join a citywide ensemble of high school students who are ready to create something bold. Together, you’ll devise a brand-new play that takes on the social justice issues you care about most and perform it onstage at a professional NYC theater!
-Between the ages of 14-19 and currently enrolled in high school in the greater NYC area
-Available for in-person weekly sessions from October 22, 2025 to April 15, 2026
-Willing to attend consistently all in-person workshops, rehearsals, and performances
-Excited to create and perform theater
-Curious and open to exploring new perspectives
-Willing to take creative risks in a supportive space with fellow performers from across the city
-Create and perform an original show about issues that matter to YOU
-Work with professional theater artists who will guide you every step of the way
-Get professional headshots and résumé tips
-See live theater around the city (for free!)
-Make new friends and join a creative community
AUDITION INFORMATION
Applicants will be selected through a group audition process. No preparation for the audition is needed, just attendance on the scheduled date.
- -October 1 or 2, 2025, 4:00-6:00 PM
- -Attendance at only one of two audition dates required
- -Midtown Manhattan Studio TBD
- -Sign-up to audition by September 30th
No previous theatre experience is required, but enthusiasm for and commitment to the program are essential.
INTERESTED? SIGN UP HERE!
REQUIRED DATES
WEEKLY SESSIONS (Wednesdays 4:00-6:00 PM)
October: 22, 29
November: 5, 12, 19
December: 3, 10, 17
January: 7, 14, 28
February: 4, 11, 25
March: 4, 11, 18, 25, April: 1
INTENSIVE REHEARSALS (11AM–7PM)
April: 2, 3
TECHNICAL REHEARSALS (11AM–7PM)
April: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
FINAL PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
Friday, April 10 7:30pm
Saturday, April 11 2:30pm & 7:30pm
Sunday, April 12 2:30pm
FINAL SESSION
April 15