OUR PROGRAMS
“Opening Act has not only taught me the craft of acting, but things that I can apply to life such as diligence and determination.”
Mila | Opening Act Alum (Brooklyn)
during our 2019 Play Reading Gala.
IN-SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Bringing life-changing theatre education programming directly to the campuses of some of New York City’s most under-resourced schools.
After-School Theatre Program – Weekly workshops that foster creativity, collaboration, leadership, and problem-solving. Culminates in YESfest, an annual festival of student work.
District 79 Program – In-school partnerships with campuses in New York’s alternative high school district, serving students facing various challenges and lacking access to arts education.
Middle School Program – Storytelling-based curriculum for younger students, scaffolding skills that will prepare them for a bright future with Opening Act and beyond.
OUT-OF-SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Creating opportunities for students to delve deeper, building community and developing creativity while sharing theatre for social good.
Student Leadership Company – An ensemble of students from across our school-based programs that meets bi-weekly to build skills and create theatre with a social justice focus.
Summer Arts and Leadership Conservatory – A three-week intensive that enhances students’ leadership and artistic abilities, offering advanced training and performance opportunities.
Student Summits – Annual trips to see a Broadway show, coupled with morning programming to delve deeper into the production and explore careers in the creative industry.
ALUMNI PROGRAMS
Continuing our commitment to the young people in our community after they complete high school and pursue their dreams on and off the stage.
Act 2 Fellowship – A year-long program designed to foster creative entrepreneurship, teach essential life skills, and elevate our alumni as ambassadors for the organization.
Alumni Conservatory – Professional-level artistic training for alumni pursuing careers in performing arts taught by working actors and trained instructors.
Alumni Writers Group – An opportunity for emerging writers to share their work, give and receive feedback, and collaborate with other artists to bring their stories to life.
Opening Act students perform their original play, LOST IN FLIGHT,
for a packed audience at a professional NYC theater. Photo by JG
Opening Act Programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. See HERE for more of our amazing Opening Act supporters!
Emmy Award-winning actress and Opening Act Artistic Advisory Board Member Uzo Aduba works with students at Opening Act’s Theater Arts and Leadership Conservatory.
Read about our impact.