New York, NY – September 10, 2024 – Opening Act, a leading theatre education nonprofit organization, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Alexander Santiago-Jirau as its new Executive Director, starting September 23, 2024.

Alexander Santiago-Jirau brings his wealth of experience to Opening Act’s work of enriching the lives of New York City youth through theatre education. Before accepting this position, he was Director of Education and Community Engagement at New York Theatre Workshop, where he played a key role in expanding programming and deepening partnerships. His profound understanding of theater’s transformative power is exemplified by his involvement with Theatre of the Oppressed, and his commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable spaces for young people is central to his service as Vice Chair of the NYC Arts in Education Roundtable.

“Alex immediately impressed our Search Committee with his deep understanding of theatre education and how that empowers young people, particularly those from underserved communities,” said Jamie Trowbridge, Chair of the Opening Act Board of Directors. “His compassion and thoughtful management approach and his desire to expand Opening Act’s presence in the arts education space in New York City (and beyond) make him the ideal person to lead our organization into its next phase. We are delighted that he is joining our amazing team.”

In his new role as Executive Director, Alex will oversee Opening Act’s strategic planning, program development, and fundraising. He will lead the Opening Act community in advancing its mission, deepening its impact, and expanding its reach. Alex brings with him a proven track record for this kind of work, and a passionate understanding of its importance and urgency.

“Theater builds community, deepens empathy, and helps us imagine and create the world we want to live in,” says Alex. “In an increasingly divided world, Opening Act’s mission to close the arts education gap by centering students’ voices through inclusive theater education is more vital than ever. As it enters its 25th year of impactful programming, I am honored to join this dedicated community of staff, teaching artists, artistic advisors, board members, and supporters in empowering students to shape a more inclusive and equitable future.”

For more information about Opening Act and its programs, please visit www.openingact.org and follow @openingactny on Instagram and Facebook.

Reynoso and Ramos Announced Funding at Special Event on the Intersection of Social Justice and the Arts Co-Hosted With The Action Lab and Bushwick Campus

BROOKLYN, NY – Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and Bushwick-born-and-raised actor and arts advocate Anthony Ramos last night teamed up to bring free, year-round after-school theater education back to Bushwick Campus. Reynoso and Ramos announced an allocation totaling $40,000 to ‘Opening Act,’ a Brooklyn-born nonprofit that brings inclusive theater education to New York City public schools. Opening Act began partnering with Bushwick Campus in 2015 but was forced to pause after-school programming at the Academy of Urban Planning and Engineering in 2022 because of COVID-related budget concerns. To bring the program back for the next two school years, Reynoso will allocate $20,000 in FY25 discretionary funding and Ramos will match the allocation with $20,000 from the Anthony Ramos Charitable Fund. The announcement was made at a special event on the intersection of social justice and the arts, organized by The Action Lab and co-hosted by Borough President Reynoso, Anthony Ramos, and Bushwick Campus.

“The arts are and always have been an engine of social justice, and in our city, they should be an essential part of our students’ education,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “All too often, however, our arts programs and aspiring artists are left without the funding, resources, and spaces they need – and that starts in our schools. I’m so grateful that Brooklyn could come together to make it clear: the arts belong in our schools. Together, we recognized the intersection of social justice and the arts and honored the contributions of Bushwick’s Anthony Ramos, who continues to remind us that we have a responsibility to channel our own excellence and passion into expanding opportunities for everyone around us. Thank you to Anthony Ramos, The Action Lab, Bushwick Campus, and Opening Act for the incredible event and bringing after-school theater programming back to Bushwick Campus. This is what it looks like to celebrate through service.”

Born and raised in Bushwick, Anthony Ramos is a Grammy-winning, Golden Globe-nominated, and Emmy-nominated actor and activist best known for his roles in “Hamilton,” “In the Heights,” “Transformers,” and the soon-to-be-released summer feature, “TWISTERS.” Since receiving his own theater education at New Utrecht High School in Bensonhurst, Ramos has been a leader in arts education advocacy in New York. He currently serves on the Artistic Advisory Board of Opening Act and has long championed their mission to connect students of color and underserved students to high-quality theater programming.

Anthony Ramos said, “I’m honored to receive this proclamation here today from Borough President Reynoso, and I am grateful to be able to give back to the community that has given me so much and shaped who I am today. Brooklyn, stand up!”

Opening Act’s free, year-long, after-school theater program is based on a highly structured, goal-oriented curriculum that teaches improvisation, acting technique, and writing exercises to help students unleash their creativity, foster collaboration, and develop leadership and problem-solving skills. The program culminates in an annual play festival, YESfest, premiering original works created, written, and performed by Opening Act students in a professional theater.

“This transformative support is a perfect example of how public officials and private individuals can partner with nonprofit organizations for the betterment of our young people and their communities,” said Deborah Steinglass, Interim Executive Director of Opening Act. “We are filled with gratitude for the generosity of Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and actor Anthony Ramos to ensure our after-school program will be onsite at the Academy of Urban Planning and Engineering once again, and for the years going forward.”

“Anthony Ramos’ journey is a playbook for the youth to follow and make their own, and it was so inspiring to host his homecoming alongside Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and The Action Lab,” said Principal Jorge Sandoval of the Academy of Urban Planning and Engineering. “We must continue to celebrate the arts in Bushwick and the passions and creativities of our students. Thank you to today’s guests and partners for showing what it looks like to support the arts and bringing after-school theater programming back to our students.”

The surprise announcement took place at a special event on the intersection of social justice and the arts, organized by The Action Lab and co-hosted by Borough President Reynoso, Anthony Ramos, and Bushwick Campus. The event kicked off with a performance by the Bushwick Tigers Cheer Squad and welcome remarks from Principal Jorge Sandoval of the Academy of Urban Planning and Engineering at Bushwick Campus. Borough President Reynoso then moderated a panel titled “Social Justice Artivism,” featuring Anthony Ramos, his mentor and former high school teacher Sara Steinweiss, and Jolie Santiago, a youth organizer and senior at El Puente Academy for Peace and Justice. The Syrup Kids then performed a dance piece to “Beggin’,” by Madcon, before Borough President Reynoso and Ramos returned to the stage for a fireside chat. Following an African percussion celebration by Bushwick Campus students, Borough President Reynoso marked the event by awarding Anthony Ramos with a proclamation designating May 15, 2024, “Anthony Ramos Day” in recognition of Ramos’ tradition of arts advocacy and excellence. The event concluded with remarks by Anthony Ramos and a performance of the song “Burn” from the musical “Hamilton” by Jazlene Rivera, a student at the Academy of Urban Planning and Engineering at Bushwick Campus.

“Anthony Ramos and Antonio Reynoso both exemplify the homegrown talent and leadership that exists throughout Brooklyn,” said Jesus Gonzalez, Bushwick Native and Co-Founding Advisor of The Action Lab. “Now they are giving a new generation of young people in Bushwick an opportunity to shine, and those youth will, undoubtedly, inspire and amaze us!”

New York, NY – April 4, 2024 – In support of Opening Act’s mission to invest in New York City youth through free theatre programming, WGA Award-Winner Marcus Gardley (The Color Purple, Maid, The Chi, black odyssey) is returning to the classroom to uplift the voices of these gifted young artists. A member of Opening Act’s Artistic Advisory Board and longtime supporter, Gardley will lead a writing workshop April 20, 2024 in advance of accepting the Opening Act Legacy Award at their annual gala on June 3, 2024.

Gardley began his relationship with Opening Act in 2012 as a Teaching Artist at Walton Educational Campus in The Bronx. In Gardley’s own words: “I had the honor of being a teaching artist over a decade ago, and not only did it encourage me as an artist, but it also fostered my love for teaching young people and giving back to my community.” His work in the classroom and subsequent success in theatre, film, and television, made him uniquely positioned to continue supporting the organization’s mission beyond his teaching artistry.

The Artistic Advisory Board launched in 2014, composed of a group of key supporters who lend their names, time, and expertise to serve as ambassadors for Opening Act, to garner excitement and interest in our work, and to expand Opening Act’s impact on our city’s talented and deserving youth. Gardley’s fellow Artistic Advisory Board members include Anthony Ramos (Transformers: Rise of the Beasts), Aja Naomi King (How to Get Away With Murder), Dominique Fishback (Emmy Nominee, Swarm), Kristen Bell (The Good Place), Marcus Gardley (screenwriter of the upcoming The Color Purple), Rachel Chavkin (director, Hadestown), Jean Smart (Hacks), and Brittany Adebumola (The Other Black Girl, Opening Act alumna).

As part of his ongoing commitment to Opening Act, Marcus Garley will bring his experience, expertise, and excitement for young talent to his upcoming Playwriting Masterclass on April 20. He will be joined by teen and young adult participants from the organization’s Student Leadership Company and Alumni Writer’s Group. Following the workshop, participants will be invited to submit short plays for consideration to be featured in the upcoming gala.

Their largest fundraising event of the year, Opening Act’s “Because Theatre” Gala on June 3 at Chelsea Factory is a celebration of the students, alumni, and Teaching Artists who move the organization’s mission forward. Central to the celebration will be the presentation of the Legacy Award to Gardley, an honor that was presented in 2023 to director Kenny Leon. Sponsorship packages to the event are on sale now and will underwrite tickets for current students and their families to attend the event along with Opening Act supporters and donors.

Says Gardley: “Opening Act is an arts organization that is vital to the New York area community because it provides young people with an outlet to express their dreams, frustrations, and passions, exploring complicated questions that only theater can raise. It also promotes community, camaraderie, and lasting friendships amongst peers and mentors at a time when not only are many arts organizations dying, but we’re seeing a plethora of art programming expunged from the educational system. Opening Act remains an inspiration to us all.”

Marcus Gardley is an acclaimed poet, playwright, and screenwriter who wrote the screenplay for the just released reimagining of THE COLOR PURPLE (2023). He won the 2022 WGA award for best adapted tv longform series for MAID (Netflix). He is the recipient of the 2019 Doris Duke Artist Award. He was a 2019 Obie Award winner for his play The House That Will Not Stand, the 2015 Glickman Award winner, and a finalist for the 2016 and 2015 Kennedy Prize. Other plays include X or the Nation v Betty Shabazz, black odyssey (2023 Drama Desk nomination), The Gospel of Loving Kindness, Every Tongue Confess, …and Jesus moonwalks the Mississippi, and The Road Weeps, The Well Runs Dry. In TV, he has written for several series including Boots Riley’s I’M A VIRGO (Amazon), THE CHI (Showtime), FOUNDATION (Apple), NOS4A2 (AMC), TALES OF THE CITY (Netflix), and MINDHUNTER (Netflix). Gardley was born and raised in Oakland, California. He is the current co-chair of the Playwriting Program at The David Geffen School of Drama at Yale University.

Committed to closing the arts education access gap in NYC, Opening Act centers the voices of students of color through free, high-quality theatre programming. Since inception in 2000, they have grown to reach over 7,000 young people at 53 under-resourced schools throughout New York City. This includes a partnership with District 79, the city’s alternative school district, and expansion into middle school. After graduation, Opening Act alumni join the Act 2 program, which sets them up for academic, professional, and artistic success. Please visit www.openingact.org to learn more.

Opening Act’s “Because Theatre” Gala will be held June 3, 2024 at Chelsea Factory.
For sponsorship opportunities visit openingact.org/annual-gala/
To support, go to openingact.nationbuilder.com/ and donate today.

Follow the campaign on Instagram, Twitter/X, and TikTok @openingactny

New York, NY – October 10, 2023 – Today Opening Act, an innovative nonprofit that seeks to close the arts education access gap for students attending New York City’s most under-served schools, announced the launch of their online fundraising campaign #BECAUSETHEATRE. The campaign starts tomorrow, October 11, 2023, and donations can be made at openingact.org/becausetheatre.

The annual campaign aims to raise an ambitious $100,000 in 20 days, from October 11- 30, through crowdfunded donations to support Opening Act’s free theatre arts programming in 53 under-served public schools across New York City. Programs offer opportunities for predominantly-BIPOC students to develop leadership, build community, and exercise creativity in high schools, middle schools, and alternative schools with little-to-no arts education offerings.

Central to the campaign is a question that proponents of these programs are always seeking to answer: Why is theatre education essential and worth financially supporting? Through original video content, interviews, and testimonials from Opening Act alumni, #BECAUSETHEATRE will highlight these programs’ effectiveness in raising test scores, ensuring college and career success, uniting immigrant communities, protecting queer youth, and inspiring young people to imagine a bright future beyond the stage. Supporters, followers, and volunteer fundraisers will participate in the conversation as well, as they will be prompted throughout the campaign to share how theatre made an impact on their lives, with a focus on the areas highlighted above. #BECAUSETHEATRE aims to create small viral moments, connecting people in all walks of life – not just those in the arts – to show the lifelong impact of this work.

The #BECAUSETHEATRE campaign features three-time Emmy award-winner Uzo Aduba, an Opening Act Artistic Advisory Board member who has long supported and advocated for arts in education. In a video introducing the campaign, Aduba says, “My early experiences in theatre prepared me for a career on stage and screen, but anyone who’s gone through the process of putting on a show knows what an impact it can have, no matter where life takes you. But too many young people will never get that chance. Less than 40 percent of all New York City public high schools have theatre programs, and – you guessed it – low-income students of color are hit the hardest. Those numbers aren’t going to get any better without our help.”

Opening Act is also supported by Aduba’s fellow Artistic Advisory Board members, including Anthony Ramos (Transformers: Rise of the Beasts), Aja Naomi King (How to Get Away With Murder), Dominique Fishback (Emmy Nominee, Swarm), Kristen Bell (The Good Place), Marcus Gardley (screenwriter of the upcoming The Color Purple), Rachel Chavkin (director, Hadestown), Jean Smart (Hacks), and Brittany Adebumola (The Other Black Girl, Opening Act alumna).

Also lending their voices to #BECAUSETHEATRE are Opening Act alumni and special guests whose testimonials and personal stories about early days onstage are backed up by overwhelming data illustrating the value of arts programming. Students with access to theatre education score an average of 100 points higher on the SAT and are three times more likely to earn a bachelor’s degree than peers without. Nearly three-quarters of employers identify “creativity” as a primary concern while hiring, but arts programs that are proven to build these competencies remain inaccessible to New York City’s most vulnerable populations – only 37% of public high schools have any theatre program at all.

Committed to closing the arts education access gap in NYC, Opening Act centers the voices of students of color through free, high-quality theatre programming. Since inception in 2000, they have grown to reach over 7,000 young people at 53 under-resourced schools throughout New York City. This includes a partnership with District 79, the city’s alternative school district, and expansion into middle school. After graduation, Opening Act alumni join the Act 2 program, which sets them up for academic, professional, and artistic success. Please visit www.openingact.org to learn more.

Opening Act’s #BECAUSETHEATRE campaign lasts twenty days, from October 11 – 30.
To support, go to openingact.org/becausetheatre and donate today.

Follow the campaign on Instagram, Twitter/X, and TikTok @openingactny

Opening Act is so very grateful to have received grant awards from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) supporting the recovery of the nonprofit arts and culture sector. Following New York State’s $105 million investment in the arts for FY2022, NYSCA has awarded more than $80 million since June 2021. 

Governor Kathy Hochul Quote: “The arts have long been a critical sector in our economy, and as we continue to rebuild a stronger New York, it’s essential we do all we can help this industry thrive once again,” Governor Hochul said. “These awardees represent the best of what New York’s vibrant communities have to offer and with this funding in hand, they will be able to not only continue their creative and inspiring work, but help spur revitalization in their own backyard as well.”

Mara Manus Quote: “NYSCA applauds Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature for their responsive investment of $105 million for the nonprofit arts and culture sector. 2022 will continue to bring change and [YOUR ORGANIZATION] will play a vital role in the renewal of our state’s economy and creative ecosystem,” said Mara Manus, Executive Director, NYSCA. “On behalf of the entire NYSCA Team, we wish to extend our sincere congratulations on your award.”

Katherine Nicholls Quote: “Council congratulates [YOUR ORGANIZATION] on their grant award! New York State arts and culture organizations inspire New Yorkers and cultivate community in every region,” said Katherine Nicholls, Chair, NYSCA. “Arts and culture are crucial to our state’s health, and Council recognizes the dynamic impact of NYSCA grantees on the well-being of all New Yorkers.”

You can read Governor Hochul’s press release HERE.

Hello friends! 

One of our ongoing goals throughout the pandemic has been to provide a sense of hope, joy, and community to Opening Act students and alums regardless of the uncertainty surrounding us. Month-after-month, our incredible supporters continue to show up for Opening Act, ensuring we can provide uninterrupted access to transformative arts education no matter what, and this Giving Tuesday, we would be honored to have your generosity directed toward Opening Act once again. 

Here are a few ways to celebrate Giving Tuesday in the spirit of HOPE, JOY, and COMMUNITY!

Give the gift of sustainable HOPE, by donating to Opening Act this Giving Tuesday! 

Many arts organizations did not weather the storm of the pandemic, and we do not take for granted that we remain a positive force for our young people thanks to ongoing donations from our generous supporters. 

Want to double your impact? To make your #GivingTuesday gift go even further, check to see if your employer has a matching gift program! 

And if you’re interested in setting up a monthly recurring donation, email Oshadi Kelly at oshadi@openingact.org for more information!

While holiday shopping for your loved ones, support Opening Act with the gift of JOY through Amazon Smile! 

Amazon donates 0.5% of your eligible purchases – at no cost to you! Sign in using your existing Amazon account through smile.amazon.com, and select Opening Act, Inc. as your preferred charity! More info HERE! 

Harness the power of community with a Facebook #GivingTuesday Fundraiser for Opening Act, and have your donations matched! 

Beginning Tuesday, November 30, Meta will match $8 million in qualifying donations made on Facebook during #GivingTuesday. Create your fundraiser for Opening Act today!

Opening Act alum and current Act 2 Fellow, Jacob Matthews, says it best… 

“Opening Act became the family that I needed to get me where I am today. Opening Act believed in me when I didn’t even believe in myself.”

With boundless hope, joy, and community,

Opening Act

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Hello Opening Act community!

I am beyond thrilled to share this special #POWEROF20 announcement with you all…

Opening Act alum, Ian Reynoso, has created an absolutely incredible piece of art inspired by OA programs, and YOU can receive a print of it! Not only is Ian an OA alum and brilliant artist, but he also participated in our Act 2 Fellowship last year AND – as of this fall – has officially launched his career as an Opening Act Teaching Artist! Ian is a remarkable young man and perfect example of how Opening Act programs go beyond the workshop space, supporting young people as they define their futures. 

Donate $500+ to our #POWEROF20 campaign, and we will mail Ian’s art to you! Check out this video to hear more about the piece from the artist himself…

Can’t see the video above? CLICK HERE!

Ian says it best himself, “Everybody in Opening Act is special.” Please support Ian and all of Opening Act’s students and alums by donating to #POWEROF20 today!

Forever inspired,

Zareta Ricks
Executive Director, Opening Act

In March 2020, Opening Act took theater off stage and moved to the screen, living rooms, parks, and rooftops. We shifted scenes, took on virtual roles, created more spaces for JOY, and made an unforgettable impact.

And now, we invite YOU to support our #POWEROF20 campaign because Opening Act is officially…

BACK ON STAGE!

Can’t see the video above? CLICK HERE!

SUPPORT #P20

Donate to #POWEROF20 today and immediately support:

In-person theater programming focused on supporting students’ social and emotional needs in our ever-growing partnering schools – including a new Middle School, a new High School, and 2 new District 79 sights! #SHOWUP

Expansion of Career & Leadership Development opportunities through our Student Leadership Company and Alumni Apprenticeship and Fellowship programs! #EMPOWER

Opening Act for All! Continued virtual arts education for anyone anywhere. #INCLUDE

DONATE TODAY!

Please help us spread the word!

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#POWEROF20 #ENCORE #BACKONSTAGE

Thank you!

Happy start of the school year OA community!

The Opening Act team and I are absolutely thrilled to be going safely back on stage with our brilliantly talented students and alums! We are optimistic about the year ahead and look forward to bringing hope, joy, and community to NYC public schools! Last week, we hosted our second annual State of the Ensemble (if you missed it, rewatch HERE!), and shared our 3 Pathways to ImpACT:

Act I: Live, in-person theater programming focused on supporting students’ social and emotional needs in our 56 partnering schools! #BACKONSTAGE

Act II: Expansion of Career & Leadership Development opportunities through our Student Leadership Company (SLC) and Alumni Apprenticeship and Fellowship programs! #EMPOWER

Act III: Greater impact by reaching more students including pre-adolescents in our middle school programs and young adults in our expanding District 79 partnership and alumni workforce development programming! #INCLUDE

These are BIG plans, and just like everything we do at Opening Act, we need our amazing community to empower this work – and this is your opportunity to make a major impact as we bring our students and alums back on stage…

#POWEROF20, our annual peer-to-peer fundraising campaign fueled by our dedicated Opening Act supporters is launching, and I am delighted to invite you to be a #POWEROF20 Leader! I’ve already committed to being a #P20 Leader this year, and I can’t wait to rally my personal network to SHOW UP for our students and alums in a powerful way. Will you join me as a #P20 Leader to help bring our students and alums back on stage, giving them the encore they deserve?

Running from Monday, October 4th through Saturday, October 23rd, #POWEROF20 is an incredible opportunity to engage and activate a broad community of support to bring equitable, transformative arts access into the lives of young people in NYC and beyond! The commitment is low, the impact is high, and our toolkit makes being a #P20 Leader easy. Join our dedicated force of #P20 Leaders today so that YOU can help ensure as many young people as possible have access to the socially and emotionally rich arts education they need and deserve. 

Let’s join together once again to give our students and alums their very well deserved ENCORE!

With a round of applause, 

Zareta Ricks
Executive Director

Hello Opening Act friends and family!

We have big news!! In just a few weeks, Opening Act programs will be in person, and our students and alums will BACK ON STAGE! YES, our virtual classrooms and stages have proven to be very impactful this past year – AND we are beyond thrilled to be back in person with our brilliant students in September! #TOGETHER

Join us (virtually) on Thursday, September 9th at 7pm ET for our second annual State of the Ensemble to learn all about our plans for the year ahead (RSVP HERE!), and keep reading for a sneak peek at what we have on the horizon!

Can’t see the image above? CLICK HERE!

#YESAND-ING economic equity!

Act 2, Opening Act’s College and Career Readiness Program, is hiring a new cohort of Act 2 Fellows – a paid workforce development opportunity that prepares young adults for postsecondary success. 

#EMPOWERING youth activism!

We are relaunching our Student Leadership Company with a new group of dynamic students from across multiple OA program sites who will meet regularly for the full academic school year to devise and perform original social-justice centered theatrical pieces across the city!

#INCLUDING younger students!

We’re REACHING MORE STUDENTS AT AN EARLIER AGE! Join our State of the Ensemble on September 9th for an inside look at what’s to come! RSVP HERE!

Thanks for reading, and we hope you enjoy these last few weeks of summer! See you BACK ON STAGE very soon!!

Onwards & Upwards!
Opening Act

Dear Opening Act Community,

I hope you’re all enjoying the summer and finding some time to rest, recharge, and connect with loved ones! Our staff, teaching artists, students, and alums have been hard at work in the office, the classroom, and on stage continuing to create art against the odds – and I just had to take a few moments to share with our incredible community (including YOU!) a quick sneak peak of what we’ve been up to this summer!

SUMMER CONSERVATORY

Honing their craft!

For the first time ever, we welcomed a cohort of Opening Act middle school students into our 3-week Summer Arts and Leadership Conservatory! Our high school and middle school SALC students have been diving into play-making and acting technique, and we are so proud of the hard work and dedication they’ve shown over the last few weeks! #YESAND

SUMMER ARTS INSTITUTE

Young artist development!

Opening Act has been selected by the NYC Department of Education to teach in their Summer Arts Institute, helping prepare middle school students who want to audition for the city’s performing arts high schools! It’s been an honor to share Opening Act curriculum with even more middle school students than ever before! #INCLUDE

ALUMNI SHOWCASE

Industry exposure!

Modelled after showcase opportunities given to graduates of BFA and MFA programs, fourteen Opening Act Alumni prepared pieces for our Alumni Showcase which will be distributed to industry professionals including agents, managers, and casting directors. These OA alums are going places! #RESPECT

HI NOON IMPROV

Join the fun!

Hi Noon Improv – our weekly 30-minute virtual improv boost open to everyone, everywhere – launched over a year ago as part of #OPENINGACTFORALL, and it’s still going strong! Join us every Thursday at noon. All you have to do is #SHOWUP!

I feel like a record on repeat, but I have to say it once again – none of this would be possible without YOU, our unwavering community of Opening Act supporters. Thank you for your dedication to our students and alums, and for ALL you do to ensure that Opening Act can continue creating stages and empowering lives! 

Onwards and upwards!

Zareta Ricks, Executive Director

Hello Opening Act community!

9 months ago, we launched Opening Act for All, and it quickly became a great way for Opening Act students, alums, teaching artists, staff, and our entire community from all over the world to connect and create together! Since our launch, #OA4All has produced 45 Hi Noon Improv Zoom workshops, 40 video lessons and LIVE virtual events, and has paid $5,725 to Opening Act students and alums for their content creation. What an exciting way to launch a new program, and we’re just getting started!

Can’t see the video above? Click HERE!

Watch the video above to learn a little more about Opening Act for All, check out our full video catalog at youtube.com/openingact, follow us on social media @openingactny for updates on what’s next, and join us for Hi Noon Improv every Thursday at 12pm ET!

A thunderous round of applause and huge thanks to Opening Act students and alums for helping design and deliver #OA4All and coming up with so much incredible content, and thank you to our Celebrity Guest Artists, Teaching Artists, Staff, Board, and the entire Opening Act community (including YOU!) for SHOWING UP for our events and spreading the word about Opening Act for All!

Onwards & Upwards!
Opening Act

#OA4All #ShowUp #YesAND

Hello Opening Act community!

In December of 2019, Opening Act received a generous grant from The Mother Cabrini Foundation to expand our Act 2 Program, providing us with the resources to offer college and career readiness and success programming to more OA alums than ever before! One of the most exciting and impactful opportunities with this expansion was bringing on 8 Alumni Fellows to work in our office, our classrooms, and on our stages – including working closely with OA staff and teaching artists and interning with OA friends! 

The 16-month fellowship of our first cohort of Act 2 Fellows has come to a close, and we are so incredibly proud of all they accomplished during this time! Keep reading to find out what these amazing young people will be up to next!

ELIJAH CALLAHAN

Upon completion of his Act 2 Fellowship, Elijah was hired as a full time customer service representative. The hiring manager pointed out that Elijah’s experience as an Act 2 Fellow was extensive and impressive.

MARRY DIAZ

As a result of her Act 2 Fellowship experience – including her relationship with her mentor and her teaching experience – Marry plans to re-enroll in college to study drama therapy.

KILEA FRANCIS

After successfully completing an internship with The Hort as part of their Act 2 Fellowship, Kilea was hired as a full time assistant gardener.

NADAIR PALMER

After interning with Groundswell as part of his Act 2 Fellowship and receiving consistent positive feedback, Nadair has been hired to continue his work with the organization.

NAILAH PETERS

After completing her Act 2 Fellowship, Nailah has decided to pursue a career in acting. She will be featured in our Alumni Showcase this summer.

IAN REYNOSO

Upon completion of his Act 2 Fellowship, Ian was hired to work as camp counselor at Camp Young Judaea in New Hampshire. He will also be completing his Associates Degree in Performing Arts at the end of this year.

JOSE SUAZO 

Jose’s experience with hosting and producing “Not Your AV Club” as part of his Act 2 Fellowship fostered a love of producing and voiceover work. He will be pursuing both professionally moving forward.

JEREMIAH THOMPSON

After a successful internship with Dreamyard as part of his Act 2 Fellowship, Jeremiah has been hired for Dreamyard’s summer programming.

Congratulations to our first-ever cohort of Act 2 Fellows – even in the midst of a pandemic, these awesome OA Alums continued to SHOW UP and bring so much insight, heart, and joy to our office, classrooms, stages and the entire Opening Act community!

Thank you to our Fellows for their hard work and dedication, and thank you to The Mother Cabrini Foundation for making this possible! We are looking forward to hiring a new group of Act 2 Fellows this fall and continuing to provide college and career readiness and success programming in the year ahead!

Onwards & upwards!

Opening Act

Photo credit: David Katzenstein and Sherrie Nickol

Hello Opening Act community!

Our 2020-21 core program year is coming to a close, and we are so proud of the dedication, resilience, and hard work our students have shown! From performing for a virtual audience of 600+ supporters to writing scholarship-award-winning essays, they have continued to accomplish so much AGAINST THE ODDS! Keep reading for a few fun spotlights from this triumphant year…

YESFEST SPOTLIGHT! 

Our second virtual YESfest was an amazing showcase of Opening Act students’ creativity and brilliance. Over 70 students performed their original pieces with 600+ supporters in our virtual audience! These talented performers SHOWED UP and created truly remarkable theater – relive the magic of the 2-day event HERE! 

MIDDLE SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT!

Congratulations to Opening Act’s second-ever Middle School ensemble for being innovative, resilient, and truly embodying the YES, AND spirit! We are thrilled to announce that Opening Act will be expanding into our second Middle School site this fall!

DISTRICT 79 SPOTLIGHT!

This year’s Opening Act Scholarship Winner was one of our insightful and hardworking District 79 students, Elisa Rodriguez! Her EMPOWERING essay shows not only what she’s gained from Opening Act, but also how she’s carrying it forward: 

“Opening Act has taught me… that it’s okay to be different, creatively and personally, and that difference is what makes everyone stand apart from each other.”

LOOKING AHEAD!

Opening Act’s Summer Arts and Leadership Conservatory will take place in July, and we are thrilled to spend the summer with dedicated Opening Act students as we dive into more elevated and focused classes, including Contemporary Acting, Shakespeare, Arts Based Leadership, and more! We’re so excited to see these young artists take their craft ONWARDS AND UPWARDS!

Stay tuned for updates on our Act 2 College and Career Readiness Program, Opening Act for All, Student Leadership Company, and more fun announcements in the weeks ahead! Thank you, as always, for your incredible dedication to Opening Act! What a year it’s been, and we’ve been honored to have you join us on this journey! 

Stay amazing!
Opening Act

Hello Opening Act Community!

Young Black Artists are shaping our future, and although Black History Month is coming to an end, Opening Act has always and will always remain dedicated to centering the voices of Young Black Artists and teaching the stories of the many Black History Trailblazers who paved the way.

Follow @openingactny on Social Media to see how our students and alums are making history each and every day!

 DID YOU KNOW?

95% of our students indicate that they feel confident taking on new challenges thanks to Opening Act.

 OPENING ACT FOR ALL!

Join us every Thursday at noon for Hi Noon Improv! (Register HERE!) Follow us on social media for updates (@openingactforall), and subscribe to our youtube channel (youtube.com/openingact) for tons of great videos!

 STAY TUNED!

Keep an eye on your inbox for a BIG announcement coming soon!

Thank you for supporting Opening Act and our brilliant and talented students and alums!

Onwards and upwards!
Opening Act

Hello Opening Act Community!

At Opening Act, we know that storytelling has the power to open minds, increase empathy, and forge connections among people. During Black History Month, and always, Opening Act is proud to provide Young Black Artists with a stage on which to tell their own stories as well as stories written by the many Black History Trailblazers who committed their lives to shaping our history.

Follow @openingactny on Social Media as we celebrate Black History Month with Young Black Artists Making History and the Black History Trailblazers who paved the way!

 DID YOU KNOW?

94% of our students indicate that they are better able to understand how others think and feel thanks to Opening Act.

 OPENING ACT FOR ALL!

Join us TODAY (Feb. 18) at noon for Hi Noon Improv! (Register HERE!) Follow us on social media for updates (@openingactforall), and subscribe to our youtube channel (youtube.com/openingact) for tons of great videos!

 STAY TUNED!

Keep an eye on your inbox for a BIG announcement coming soon!

As always, thank you for being part of the Opening Act community and for joining us in celebrating Young Black Artists Making History each and every day!

Onwards and upwards!
Opening Act

Hello Opening Act Community!

In honor of Black History Month, we will spend February highlighting Young Black Artists Making History (including Opening Act’s incredible students and alums!), and the Black History Trailblazers who paved the way. #RESPECT

Follow @openingactny on Social Media to see more Young Black Artists Making History, and let us know which Black History Trailblazers have had an influence on YOU!

 DID YOU KNOW?

Respect is one of Opening Act’s six core values! In our classrooms and on our stages, we create an environment of respect so that all of our ensemble members feel brave and safe as they take center stage. 

 ANNOUNCEMENT!

Second Semester Core Programming in our 57 NYC partner schools reconvenes NEXT WEEK! Looking forward to being back together in the virtual classroom, making theater and sparking change! Check out our schedule HERE!

 OPENING ACT FOR ALL!

Join us Thursday (Feb. 4) at noon for Hi Noon Improv! (Register HERE!) Follow us on social media for updates (@openingactforall), and check out our youtube channel (youtube.com/openingact) for tons of great videos!

Thank you for supporting Opening Act and Young Black Artists Making History each and every day!

Onwards and upwards!
Opening Act

Hello Opening Act Community!

Calling all aspiring actors preparing for college auditions! GRAND ARMY’s Brittany Adebumola (OA Alum, OA Artistic Advisory Board Member) has put together a 3-part video series that demystifies the college audition process and empowers young actors to have brave auditions!

If you can’t see the image above, click HERE to watch all three videos!

 DID YOU KNOW?

Empower is one of Opening Act’s six core values! In our classrooms and on our stages, we strive to empower students and alums with tools to feel confident and promote self-actualization!

 ANNOUNCEMENT!

Oshadi Kelly, Opening Act’s new Director of Advancement, is a native Brooklynite with a passion for arts and a career dedicated to raising funds to support mission-driven organizations to do life-saving and life-changing work. We are so grateful to have Oshadi in the Opening Act cast. Check out her full bio HERE!

 OPENING ACT FOR ALL!

Join us TOMORROW (Jan. 28) at noon for Hi Noon Improv! (Register HERE!) Follow us on social media for updates (@openingactforall), and check out our youtube channel (youtube.com/openingact) for tons of great videos!

Thanks for reading, friends! Stay well, and we hope to see you at Hi Noon Improv tomorrow!

Onwards and upwards!
Opening Act

It’s a new year full of new possibilities, and we are thrilled to announce four new additions to our Opening Act cast! Anthony Ramos (HAMILTON, IN THE HEIGHTS), Odley Jean (GRAND ARMY, OA Alum) Brittany Adebumola (GRAND ARMY, OA Alum), and Caleb Grandoit (GRAND ARMY, OA Alum) have joined our Artistic Advisory Board!

Odley, Brittany, and Caleb are former OA students who are achieving their professional acting dreams (if you haven’t seen them in GRAND ARMY yet, get on it – they’ll blow you away!), and Anthony has been an incredible mentor and supporter of OA students and alums for many years. Anthony recently spent an afternoon with us, and he shared so many jewels of wisdom! Here are a few that we’re carrying with us into the new year!

JEWELS OF WISDOM FROM ANTHONY RAMOS

“Show up as much as you can! You never know the magic that can happen from you just being there.”

“I always check in with myself as I’m growing, learning, changing. Am I okay? Am I still here?”

“As long as that fire is still burning in you, never quit!”

“Work hard, be prepared, do your best.”

Yes, AND to that! We’re so grateful to have Anthony, Odley, Brittany, and Caleb join us in sharing their artistry, vision, and passion for Opening Act! 

DID YOU KNOW?

Opening Act’s Artistic Advisory Board is a group of professional artists and key supporters (Kristen Bell, Uzo Aduba, Aja Naomi King, and more!) who serve as ambassadors for our programs, mentors for our students and alums, and advocates for fulfilling our mission of providing equitable, healing-centered, joyful arts education.

Yes, AND is one of Opening Act’s core values! In improv (and in life!), saying “Yes, AND!” encourages us to accept others’ contributions and expand upon their offer in return. We use it on our stages, in our classrooms, and throughout our day-to-day lives – if you haven’t done so already, give Yes, AND a try!

As of December 7th, only 41% of nonprofit arts organizations are currently open. Opening Act is one of the 41% thanks to our hardworking staff, our brilliant teaching artists, our stalwart school partners, our students and alums who are leading us forward, and our incredible supporters – like YOU. 

We’re fewer than 20 days from the close of 2020 and excited to start a fresh new year full of opportunities for young people in NYC and beyond!!

In honor of our 20th Anniversary, we invite you to help us raise $20,000 to kick off our next 20 years of life-changing arts access!

For over 20 years, Opening Act has remained committed to actively centering the voices of students of color through our free, high-quality theater programming. In the spirit of YES, AND we will continue to show up for as long as we are needed. But we need your help …

DONATE TODAY so we can continue moving ONWARDS & UPWARDS!

 It only takes 200 people giving $100 for Opening Act to reach our end of year goal.

Can we count you in? 

Follow us online as we reflect on 20 years of Opening Act during these 20 days of giving!

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

#ONWARDSANDUPWARDS #20YEARS20MORE

And a very special thank you to our campaign sponsor:

Hello friends!

Temperatures are dropping outside, but this week’s Opening Act for All line up is on fire!! From a hip hop dance lesson to “Ask an Artist” with TV and film star Hampton Fluker (with some improv in between, of course!), you won’t want to miss these fun events! ALL are welcome, no performance experience necessary, and the only requirement is showing up!

 LEARN HIP HOP DANCE WITH NATHASHA BELL

• Wednesday at 2pm ET – Watch on YOUTUBE!
• For dancers of all ages and experience levels!

Do you want to learn hip hop dance but never had the chance? Your time has come! Follow along with Opening Act Alum and professional dancer, Nathasha “Nash” Bell, and make sure to share your progress by posting a clip on Instagram! Tag @openingactforall with the hashtag #YourMove – we can do it!

 HI NOON IMPROV 

• Thursday at 12pm ET – Register HERE!
• For EVERYONE, EVERYWHERE!

Are you looking for a brave space to learn improv? Are you an improviser missing the stage since COVID-19? Are you simply wanting to connect and laugh with others? Hi Noon Improv has what you need! Join actor, comedian, and Opening Act Alum, Jeremiah Thompson, (along with special guests!) for this weekly, 30-minute workshop open to anyone, anywhere!

 FREESTYLE FRIDAY 

• For aspiring actors and fans of the arts!
• Friday at 4pm ET – Join via FACEBOOK LIVE or YOUTUBE!

#FreeStyleFriday continues our “Ask an Artist” series with a Q&A between Hampton Fluker (SHADES OF BLUE, BLIND SIDE), Brittany Adebumola (OA Alum, GRAND ARMY), and Lucia Morel (current OA student). Brittany and Lucia will interview Hampton about his journey from Atlanta to star of stage and screen! Join this live event and be ready with a question to Ask an Artist!

If you didn’t catch last week’s “Ask an Artist” with Guillermo Díaz, check it out HERE! It was the first interview that OA Alum, Keith Morris, has ever conducted, and we think he’s going places! And as always, thank you for showing up, spreading the word, and helping to ensure that as many people as possible have access to Opening Act for All! 

Onwards and Upwards!

Your Friends at Opening Act

Hello friends!

Happy December! Hope you all had a chance to relax and connect over the long weekend! We have another fun and energizing line-up of Opening Act for All events this week with a special appearance Friday from TV and film star, Guillermo Díaz (SCANDAL, CHAPPELLE’S SHOW)! Hope you can join us – ALL are welcome, no performance experience necessary, and the only requirement is showing up!

 HOW TO WARM UP LIKE A REAL DANCER

• Wednesday at 2pm ET – Watch on YOUTUBE!
• For anyone, anywhere who loves to move and groove!

Do you love to dance? Are you looking for a fun way to get your blood flowing and your body moving? Do you simply need a brain break from sitting at your desk all day? Watch Opening Act Alum and professional dancer, Nathasha Bell, as she teaches us a quick hip hop warm up that you can do anytime, anywhere!

 HI NOON IMPROV 

• Thursday at 12pm ET – Register HERE!
• For EVERYONE, EVERYWHERE!

Are you looking for a brave space to learn improv? Are you an improviser missing the stage since COVID-19? Are you simply wanting to connect and laugh with others? Hi Noon Improv has what you need! Join actor, comedian, and Opening Act Alum, Jeremiah Thompson, (along with special guests!) for this weekly, 30-minute workshop open to anyone, anywhere!

 FREESTYLE FRIDAY 

• For aspiring actors and fans of the arts!
• Friday at 4pm ET – Join via FACEBOOK LIVE or YOUTUBE!

#FreeStyleFriday continues our “Ask an Artist” series with a Q&A between Guillermo Díaz (SCANDAL, CHAPPELLE’S SHOW), Brittany Adebumola (OA Alum, GRAND ARMY), Keith Morris (OA Alum, City College). Brittany and Keith will interview Guillermo about growing up in NYC and his journey to becoming a TV and film star, activist, and role model! Join this live event and be ready with a question to Ask an Artist!

Thanks to so many of you for joining our #Friendsgiving4All event last week! We had TONS OF FUN! Please keep showing up, spreading the word, and helping to ensure that as many people as possible have access to Opening Act for All! THANK YOU, and be well!!

Onwards and Upwards!

Your Friends at Opening Act

Hello friends!

Happy Holiday Week! With many of us isolated and missing loved ones, Opening Act for All is excited to offer our OA family a radical act of community … 

Join us from 12-12:30pm ET this Thursday, November 26 (Thanksgiving Day) for a special holiday edition of Hi Noon Improv: #Friendsgiving4All! (Register HERE!) Hope to see you there for some laughter, joy, and connection! And check out our other fun #OA4All offerings this week, as well!

 IMAGINATIVE PLAY WITH LITTLE KIDS

• Wednesday at 2pm ET – Watch on YOUTUBE!
• For parents, grandparents, older siblings, and anyone with young children at home!

Do you have little ones in your life who love to use their imaginations and/or who need to stretch and strengthen their creative muscles? Learn how to keep young minds engaged in imaginative play from Opening Act Teaching Artist, Dianna Garten! 

 HI NOON IMPROV 

Special Holiday Edition: #Friendsgiving4All!

• Thursday at 12pm ET (Thanksgiving Day!) – Register HERE!
• For EVERYONE, EVERYWHERE!

Not able to be with loved ones this Thanksgiving? We’ve got your back! Join our special holiday edition of Hi Noon Improv: #Friendsgiving4All! Anyone, anywhere is welcome to join us for this 30-minute holiday improv boost! 

 FREESTYLE FRIDAY 

• For aspiring actors and fans of the arts!

We will not have our live #FreeStyleFriday event this week, but if you haven’t done so already, check out last week’s “Ask an Artist” with Geoffrey Arend (GOLIATH, MADAM SECRETARY) and Brittany Adebumola (OA Alum, GRAND ARMY)! And find tons of fun Opening Act for All content at youtube.com/openingact!

We are always so very grateful for our incredible community near and far, and especially during this season of thanks! Please keep showing up, spreading the word, and helping to ensure that as many people as possible have access to Opening Act for All! THANK YOU, and be well!!

With many thanks!

Your Friends at Opening Act

Hello friends!

We’re back at it again, inviting you to join us for another exciting week of Opening Act for All events – including the launch of our new series, “Ask an Artist,” featuring actor and director Geoffrey Arend! Check out our lineup for the days ahead … 

 HOW TO AUDITION FOR COLLEGE ACTING PROGRAMS

• Wednesday at 2pm ET (TODAY!) – Watch on YOUTUBE!
• For high school students and aspiring artists!

Are you or any young people in your life thinking about applying to a college acting program? Learn where to start and what to expect from Opening Act alum and recent SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY grad, Brittany Adebumola (GRAND ARMY)!

 HI NOON IMPROV 

• Thursday at 12pm ET – Register HERE!
• For everyone, everywhere!

Are you looking for a brave space to learn improv? Are you an improviser missing the stage since COVID-19? Are you simply wanting to connect and laugh with others? Hi Noon Improv has what you need! Join actor, comedian, and Opening Act alum Jeremiah Thompson (along with special guests!) for this weekly, 30-minute workshop open to anyone, anywhere!

 FREESTYLE FRIDAY – ASK AN ARTIST

• Friday at 4pm ET – Join via FACEBOOK LIVE or YOUTUBE!
• For aspiring actors and TV fans!

#FreeStyleFriday kicks off the first installment of our “Ask an Artist” series with a Q&A between Geoffrey Arend (GOLIATH, MADAM SECRETARY) and Brittany Adebumola (OA Alum, GRAND ARMY). Brittany will interview Geoffrey about his journey from a NYC public school student to star of stage and screen! Join this live event and be ready with a question to Ask an Artist!

We learned SO MUCH about college theater programs during last week’s special edition of #FreeStyleFriday: IN COLLEGE – ON STAGE. Click HERE to rewatch this incredible resource, and please share with anyone and everyone in your network who is considering studying theater in college!

Thank you once again to our incredible community near and far for showing up, spreading the word, and helping to ensure that as many people as possible have access to Opening Act for All! 

Onwards and upwards!

Your Friends at Opening Act

Hello friends!

What a rollercoaster this last week has been, and we were very grateful to ride it out with our wonderful community! Friends from near and far joined our Opening Act for All offerings – from NYC to Toronto and Florida to California! We hope our events left you feeling calm and refreshed! 

This week we’re focusing on tangible skills to help young artists move forward in their studies and careers, and we invite you, your family, and friends to join us! All are welcome – acting experience is not necessary, and the only requirement is showing up! 

 HOW TO ACT A SONG

Wednesday at 2pm ET – Watch on FACEBOOK or YOUTUBE!

Opening Act Teaching Artist, Liza Miller, teaches you how Broadway’s best fill the stage with action, emotion, and intent!

 HI NOON IMPROV 

Thursday at 12pm ET – Register HERE!

Are you looking for a brave space to learn improv? Are you an improviser missing the stage since COVID-19? Are you simply wanting to connect and laugh with others? Hi Noon Improv has what you need! Join actor, comedian, and Opening Act alum Jeremiah Thompson, along with special guests, for this weekly, 30-minute workshop open to anyone, anywhere!

 FREESTYLE FRIDAY – Special Edition!

Friday at 4pm ET – Join via FACEBOOK LIVE or YOUTUBE!

Act 2 and #FreeStyleFriday present “On Stage and In College!” Deciding to study theater in college is a big decision. This special, two-hour event brings together admissions professionals, students, performers, and more to dig into COLLEGE THEATER! 

Click HERE to relive the fun and collaboration that went into this group creation made during last week’s #FreeStyleFriday! And if you still need a few moments of peace (don’t we all?), click HERE for a quick #ChillhopMeditation!

Thank you to our incredible community near and far for showing up, spreading the word, and helping to ensure that as many people as possible have access to Opening Act for All! 

Onwards and upwards!

Your Friends at Opening Act

You don’t want to miss our kick-off event at 4pm featuring OA Alums and Stars of Netflix’s Grand Army!

Opening Act for All FAQ

Who can enjoy Opening Act for All?
ANYONE! ANYWHERE! Opening Act for All is FREE, virtual arts experiences designed for young people ages 12-21. Programming is accessible and engaging to ANYONE interested in developing their creative muscles!

How does Opening Act for All work?
Each week a new video, created by our talented teaching artists and amazing guest artists, will be released on Youtube and Instagram. Engage at your own pace!

How can I engage more?
At the end of each video, the instructors issue a challenge! We invite you to try the exercise, take a video, and share with us!

Are there live events?
Yes! #FreeStyleFriday is our weekly, live series where you can connect virtually in real time, build community, and socially engage with accomplished artists and surprise guests!

What should I do right now?
Subscribe to our YouTube channel, follow Opening Act for All on Instagram, and join us Friday at 4pm! 

Let the fun begin! 

Thank you!

#OA4All #OAforAll #OpeningActforAll

Dear Opening Act Community, 

I am speechless by the outpouring of support received during the #POWEROF20 campaign. Thanks to you, young people across New York City and beyond are engaging with arts-based, healing-centered programming. Thanks to you, students and alums continue to have access to critical college and career support. And thanks to you, Opening Act for All will launch beyond the building, bringing arts education to anyone, anywhere!

Ebenezer Arthur (OA alum and staff member) created this short video of thanks that wonderfully captures our gratitude for your support and our collective commitment to building community.

The #POWEROF20 campaign is not possible without #P20 Leaders. These incredible, forthright individuals volunteer their time, passion, and energy to make sure that young people across NYC and beyond have consistent, joyful, and hopeful programming.

In just a few days we have some very exciting announcements to share with you so, please stay tuned!! But, today, we take a moment to celebrate with great applause this powerful community … Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Onwards and upwards,

Zareta Ricks
Executive Director

Opening Act is excited to announce that, in conjunction with the #POWEROF20 Campaign, Opening Act alum, staff member, and artist Ebenezer Arthur is giving away a select number of limited edition, signed prints of his original piece, We Belong.

Starting Saturday, October 3rd, we will hold daily drawings, selecting one lucky donor to receive this stunning print! The daily drawings will go through Saturday, October 10th – that’s 7 opportunities to win! Supporters who donate $500 or more will automatically receive a signed, limited edition print of We Belong!

Please support Opening Act, at this most critical time, as we continue to bring free, high quality theater programming and so much more to young people in NYC and beyond!

Donate today!

Watch this powerful conversation with Ebenezer and Opening Act Executive Director, Zareta Ricks about his work. 

Before the pandemic, only 40% of public high schools in NYC had theater programming. The devastating budget cuts announced July 1st include a roughly 70% reduction in arts education services for middle and high schools.

You can make an impact right now. 

For twenty years, Opening Act has been able to consistently show up for young people in New York City, despite fluctuating budgets, because our programs are free. And now we are able to reach more young people by going BEYOND THE BUILDING …

Donate to our #POWEROF20 campaign today and immediately support:

• Live, virtual theater programming focused on supporting students’ social and emotional needs in our 57 partnering schools in NYC
• Comprehensive college and career support for students and alums so they can map their future with confidence
• Opening Act for All! Arts education for anyone, anywhere…

DONATE NOW

JOIN THE CAMPAIGN

WATCH: 20 MINUTES OF JOY!

Please help us spread the word!
The #POWEROF20 is fueled by individuals making the powerful choice to work together to make a BIG impact!

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn

#POWEROF20 #POWEROF20YEARS #BEYONDTHEBUILDING

Thank you and got your back!

Broadcast LIVE Thursday, September 3, 2020

Hosted by Zareta Ricks (Executive Director) with Kayla Jackmon (Teaching Artist), Kamilla Barnes (Opening Act Student), Marcus Johnson (Director of Programs), Paul Gutkowski (District 79 Program Manager), Marc Montorara (Teacher, District 79 Pathways to Graduation Harlem Renaissance), Ian Reynoso (Act 2 Fellow), Matthew Greene (Act 2 Program Manager), Rahul Tripathi (Co-President Opening Act Board), Maza Myrie (Opening Act Board Member & Parent of Opening Act Alum).

Produced by Cathleen Carr & Alex Scoolis

Dear Opening Act Community,

With the start of the school year just a few days away, our students, school leaders, and families need answers right now. Opening Act is ready and excited to present our programmatic response for the 2020-21 school year and our plans for continuing to advance and meet the need for access to free high quality arts education for youth – extending both beyond the school building and beyond NYC.

We invite you to gather with us virtually Thursday, September 3rd at 7:00pm ET for Opening Act’s first ever State of the Ensemble! Please register here!

Yes, and … if you didn’t catch our conversation with NYC Advocate Jumaane D. Williams yesterday, be inspired by the wisdom shared from this great leader in our city, along with the brilliant Michael Wiggins, Tammi Cubilette, and Odley Jean!

With great optimism about the future,

Zareta Ricks
Executive Director

LEVELING THE PLAYING FIELD FOR YOUNG BLACK AND BROWN ARTISTS IN NYC
Discussing Arts Education in NYC with New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams

Moderated by Zareta Ricks with Michael Wiggins, Tammi Cubilette, and Odley Jean

Monday, August 24, 2020

Today is the final edition of our Summer Series 2020 newsletter. Thank you for staying connected and don’t miss out on some big announcements below!

BE WELL
Hi Noon Improv (Thursdays @ noon ET, 30 minutes) No experience necessary and all are welcome! Join Opening Act’s Jeremiah Thompson (Act 2 Fellow) and special guests every Thursday for a playful reboot to your day!  Registration is required!  

*Hi Noon Improv will continue into the fall because we’re all going to need a little laughter in the months ahead!

Yoga with Halima (Monday @ noon, Friday @ noon, Saturday @ 11:30am, Sunday @ 10am – all ET)
Teaching since 2014, Halima’s Vinyasa yoga classes focus on proper alignment and straightforward yet challenging sequences in a light-hearted, welcoming environment. Halima believes a mindful practice can decompress and strengthen the body, mind, and spirit! Off the mat Halima is a NYC based actor and Opening Act teaching artist who’s a proud U of Michigan alum. Classes are Pay What You Can.

*Halima will be continuing her classes into the fall!

WATCHING
Opening Act Presents: Leveling the Playing Field for Young Black and Brown Artists in NYC: A Virtual Discussion (Wednesday, August 26th @ 3pm ET)
Please join us for an important discussion with Zareta Ricks (Executive Director, Opening Act) and Jumaane Williams (New York City Public Advocate) for strategizing ways to protect and expand equitable arts education for students of color during this most critical time. 

We will be joined by Michael Wiggins, (Director of Engagement & Education, at Little Island), Tammi Cubliette (Opening Act Teaching Artist), and Odley Jean (former Opening Act student and star of the upcoming Netflix original series, Grand Army) for a first-hand perspective on why access to the arts is essential to building supportive communities, developing strong identities, and connecting youth to life-changing opportunities. 

SAVE THE DATE 
Opening Act’s State of the Ensemble (Thursday, September 3, 2020 @ 7pm ET) More details to come!

READING
Are you familiar with the extraordinary life of Civil Rights Activist, Ella Baker? Take a moment to read about and learn from this incredible woman.

FAMILY FUN
Swimming with Shark Scientists (Thursday, August 27th @ noon ET) Despite what you see on television, there are hundreds of fascinating shark species other than great whites swimming in the ocean. Likewise, there are plenty of incredible women and people of color making scientific discoveries about these mysterious creatures. Join Jasmin Graham, one of the founders of Minorities in Shark Sciences, and Triana Arguedas Alvarez, a MISS member, in a LIVE conversation about all things sharks! Great for all ages!

COMMUNITY
Opening Act says goodbye this week to our remarkable Deputy Director, Erika Atkins. For half a decade, Erika has dedicated her ingenuity, awe-inspiring competencies, and thoughtful leadership towards making Opening Act a durably innovative organization committed to arts equity for every young person living in NYC. Erika departs Opening Act to become the Executive Director at the Bloomingdale School of Music on the Upper West Side. While it’s difficult to say goodbye, Erika will always be an important member of the Opening Act family and will remain a collaborator in our shared goal of equitable arts education. Take 2 minutes to watch this lovely video featuring Erika and Malia Braithwaite from 2018. It captures beautifully our friend and colleague, Erika Atkins.

WHAT OA STUDENTS ARE UP TO
We checked in with a couple of Opening Act students who are heading off to college. Here’s what they had to say …

“I’m pretty excited for college. Don’t get me wrong I miss high school a lot and not fully completing my senior year or having YesFest physically kinda sucked. I’ll also miss having Opening Act after school. It was something I could look forward to, whether it was a stressful day or not. It was so wonderful just making everyone laugh. But yeah, for college I’m pretty excited and a little sad because I can’t be there physically. Do I feel prepared? Honestly I do. Having Opening Act classes and joining The Barrow Group program this summer helped evolve my acting skills. I feel like this was a good start for me as I head to college.” –Muhammad Ali

“Um, preparing for college for the first time for me is like that feeling you get when your mom comes home and calls your name so loud, you know there’s something wrong but you don’t know what. Your anxiety builds so much because you don’t know why she’s calling you and boom she points to the sink and there’s a spoon or a plate in the sink you didn’t wash and then you’re like “really”? Going off to college is nerve racking. You have to see it and feel it for yourself. Someone else’s description won’t be the same as your own, so don’t sweat it. At least that’s what I keep telling myself to myself to stay sane with this pressure, especially with the pandemic going on. Sometimes I feel like “eh, no big deal” and then “omg I’m about to go to college what the heck!!” I’m glad I get to have this opportunity and pursue my dreams.” –Chinyere Nwosu

CALL TO ACTION
Opening Act’s annual fall fundraiser, the #POWEROF20 goes BEYOND THE BUILDING this year from September 21 through October 10, 2020. This dynamic, online event raises much-needed funds early in our programming year so we can consistently show up for our students and alums. The success of this campaign depends on our community mobilizing to spread the word and raise critical dollars to continue this work. We invite you to join us! Please take a moment to complete this google form so we can follow up on how you can help us reach our goal.

Here at Opening Act, connecting with you each week – whether through improv, yoga, music, thoughtful reading, or student updates – has been the highlight of our summer months. Community is essential right now and we continue to be grateful for our strong network of students, alums, families, partners, staff, supporters, and friends. 

Thank you for reading and as always, got your back!

Monday, August 17, 2020

Nearing the end of summer, Opening Act continues to Yes, And with a weekly roundup of notable events, helpful resources, and delightful distractions to keep you connected, inspired, and activated as we bravely enter the fall. Delivered to your inbox every Monday morning, the OA Summer Series invites you to connect from a distance!

If you have friends or relatives who would like this weekly resource guide, you can tell them to sign up here. 

BE WELL
Hi Noon Improv (Thursdays @ noon ET, 30 minutes) No experience necessary and all are welcome! Did you know that just 20 minutes of improv practice promotes overall wellbeing? Join Opening Act’s Jeremiah Thompson (Act 2 Fellow), Cathleen Carr, and special guest Paul Gutkowski for this weekly, free, 30 minute improv boost to keep you connected and resilient! Registration is required!  

Yoga with Halima (Monday @ noon, Friday @ noon, Saturday @ 11:30am, Sunday @ 10am – all ET) Teaching since 2014, Halima’s Vinyasa yoga classes focus on proper alignment and straightforward yet challenging sequences in a light-hearted, welcoming environment. Halima believes a mindful practice can decompress and strengthen the body, mind, and spirit! Off the mat Halima is a NYC based actor and Opening Act teaching artist who’s a proud U of Michigan alum. Classes are Pay What You Can.

WATCHING
Anthony Ramos just released his new single, Stop and it’s giving us life! Stop what you’re doing right now and watch this timely, nourishing video for a recharge and reminder that we’re all in this together!

And then take a quick moment to spy Anthony with Opening Act students here. 

READING
This high school student’s perspective on learning during the time of COVID-19 brings into full focus why including youth voices in the decision making process is so important. 

LISTENING
Williamstown Theatre Festival’s Audible Season is announced and will feature Opening Act Artistic Advisory Board Member Aja Naomi King!

LEARNING
We were introduced to Dr. Gholdy Muhammad earlier this summer through the excellent webinar Abolitionist Teaching and the Future of Our Schools. Catch Dr. Muhammad on August 20, 2020 at 1pm ET for Conversations Around The Table: Equity in Education. 

FAMILY FUN
Check out the brand new Good Humor ice cream truck song composed by Wu-Tang Clan’s RZA! Read more about how this awesome collaboration came about here. 

Did you miss Opening Act’s Marcus Johnson and Justin Daniel youth theater workshop last week? No problem! Catch it here!

COMMUNITY
Thrilled to see Art As Air and Charles Chessler collaborating with Opening Act Teaching Artists and Alums! And a short video is on the way too? #YesAnd

WHAT OA STUDENTS ARE UP TO
Opening Act students completed their summer intensive with The Barrow Group last Friday!

Thanks for reading and please reach out with suggestions and submission ideas to hello@openingact.org and don’t forget to follow our Act 2 Fellows on Instagram! See you next Monday!

Got your back! 

Monday, August 10, 2020

Keep Yes, And-ing this summer with a weekly roundup of notable events, helpful resources, and delightful distractions to keep you connected, inspired, and activated through these sweltering months. Delivered to your inbox every Monday morning, the OA Summer Series invites you to connect from a distance!

If you have friends or relatives who would like this weekly resource guide, you can tell them to sign up here.

BE WELL
Hi Noon Improv (Thursdays @ noon ET, 30 minutes) No experience necessary and all are welcome! Did you know that just 20 minutes of improv practice promotes overall wellbeing? Laugh it out with Opening Act’s Jeremiah Thompson (Act 2 Fellow), Cathleen Carr, and special guest Paul Gutkowski with this weekly, free, 30 minute improv boost to keep you connected and resilient! Registration is required! 

Feel better by doing Yoga with Halima! (Monday @ noon, Friday @ noon, Saturday @ 11:30am, Sunday @ 10am) ET. Teaching since 2014, Halima’s Vinyasa yoga classes focus on proper alignment and straightforward yet challenging sequences in a light-hearted, welcoming environment. Halima believes a mindful practice can decompress and strengthen the body, mind, and spirit! Off the mat Halima is a NYC based actor and Opening Act teaching artist who’s a proud U of Michigan alum. Classes are Pay What You Can.

WATCHING
So much to discuss as we mark the centennial anniversary of the 19th Amendment, granting the Women’s vote! Join 19th Represents: Suffrage Tuesday, August 11th from 2:00 pm – 4:45 pm ET for a powerhouse conversation featuring Stacey Abrams, Alicia Garza, María Teresa Kumar, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Meryl Streep, and Zoe Saldaña.

READING
… And then catch up on the history of this complicated amendment and the continued work we collectively face now and ahead with this piece from National Geographic.

LISTENING
Parade has named September by Earth, Wind & Fire as the happiest song of all time. As we prep ourselves for a busy fall, let’s take a quick moment to DANCE IT OUT!

LEARNING
If you’ve been reading the Summer Series surely you’ve caught mention of Abolitionist Teaching. This movement is gathering steam quickly and we continue to learn and grow as we read and engage more. For parents, educators, or anyone interested in growing young people who feel valued, heard, and seen with accompanying policies that protect their potential, check out this helpful Guide for Racial Justice and Abolitionist Social and Emotional Learning.

FAMILY FUN
Join Opening Act’s Marcus Johnson and Justin Daniel Wednesday, August 12th @ 1:00 pm ET for this lively Opening Act workshop intended for the whole family! Tune into this asynchronous class on Facebook Live and Youtube!

COMMUNITY
Applications are now open for the Fall 2020 Teaching Artist Project (TAP). This year’s program will be virtual, opening up a rare opportunity for those not living in the NYC metro region. Learn more about this richly rigorous experience for artists here.

WHAT OA STUDENTS ARE UP TO
Our friend, photographer Charles Chessler is taking point on mentoring and gearing up former Opening Act students interested in visual storytelling. Learn more, including how you can support his efforts here!

Thanks for reading and please reach out with suggestions and submission ideas to hello@openingact.org and don’t forget to follow our Act 2 Fellows on Instagram! See you next Monday!

Got your back! 

Monday, August 3, 2020

Keep Yes, And-ing this summer with a weekly roundup of notable events, helpful resources, and delightful distractions to keep you connected, inspired, and activated through these sweltering months. Delivered to your inbox every Monday morning, the OA Summer Series invites you to connect from a distance!

If you have friends or relatives who would like this weekly resource guide, you can tell them to sign up here.

BE WELL
Hi Noon Improv (Thursdays @ noon, 30 minutes) No experience necessary and all are welcome! Did you know that just 20 minutes of improv practice promotes overall wellbeing? Ride out the tropical storm this week with Opening Act’s Jeremiah Thompson (Act 2 Fellow) and Cathleen Carr for this weekly, free, 30 minute improv boost to keep you connected and resilient! Registration is required! 

Feel better by doing Yoga with Halima! (Monday @ noon, Friday @ noon, Saturday @ 11:30am, Sunday @ 10am) ET. Teaching since 2014, Halima’s Vinyasa yoga classes focus on proper alignment and straightforward yet challenging sequences in a light-hearted, welcoming environment. Halima believes a mindful practice can decompress and strengthen the body, mind, and spirit! Off the mat Halima is a NYC based actor and Opening Act teaching artist who’s a proud U of Michigan alum. Classes are Pay What You Can.

WATCHING
Need some hope? Take a moment and listen to these young leaders share a panel discussion with Opening Act’s Executive Director, Zareta Ricks on how important (and meaningful) paid internships are to creating a vibrant and inclusive future for everyone.

READING
John Lewis left us his final words. Please take a moment.

LISTENING
BRIC’s Celebrate Brooklyn Festival delivered despite the virtual odds! These beautifully produced performances (including Common) will ignite a fire in your heart to squash this virus so we can be together once again at the Bandshell in Prospect Park!

LEARNING
Yesterday would have been James Baldwin’s 96th birthday. If you haven’t already, take 1 hour, 33 minutes, and 48 seconds to watch I Am Not Your Negro streaming for free on YouTube. This excellent documentary about his life and work will catalyze and inspire you to live authentically and unapologetically. 

FAMILY FUN
Listen and dance to this playlist from Spotify, empowering and energizing the little listeners in your life!

Then why not build some social-emotional learning into your kiddo’s day with this fun, music-centered lesson plan from The Morningside Center for Teaching Social Responsibility.

COMMUNITY
Big news in arts ed: The NYC Arts in Education Roundtable and the New York Community Trust have teamed up to create an “Arts Educator Emergency Relief Fund” to award at least 300 grants of up to $1,000 to arts educators who are facing serious financial hardship due to the COVID-19 crisis. Follow this emerging story here. 

Congratulations to Opening Act Artistic Advisory Board Member Alexa L. Fogel on her Emmy nomination for Outstanding Casting for a Drama Series for her incredible work in Ozark! This Netflix original also features long-time Opening Act friend and guest artist Marc Menchaca. Fans can read an interview with Alexa about casting this compellingly drama here.

WHAT OA STUDENTS ARE UP TO
Act 2 Fellows hosted an Alumni Open Mic this past week. Former students gathered on Zoom from all over to laugh and share space together through theater games and micro-performances. These moments remind us how important community is right now…

Thanks for reading and please reach out with suggestions and submission ideas to hello@openingact.org and don’t forget to follow our Act 2 Fellows on Instagram! See you next Monday!

Got your back! 

Monday, July 27, 2020

Summer is here and Opening Act is ready to Yes, And … with a weekly roundup of notable events, helpful resources, and delightful distractions to keep you connected, inspired, and activated through the summer months. Delivered to your inbox every Monday morning, the OA Summer Series will keep you up to date on what’s worth knowing so you can relax and enjoy your summer!

If you have friends or relatives who would like this weekly resource guide, you can tell them to sign up here.

BE WELL

Hi Noon Improv (Thursdays @ noon ET, 30 minutes) Did you know that just 20 minutes of improv practice promotes overall wellbeing? Crank up the a/c and join Opening Act’s Jeremiah Thompson (Act 2 Fellow) and Cathleen Carr for this weekly, free, funny, 30 minute improv boost to keep you connected and resilient! No experience necessary and all are welcome! Registration is required!  

Feel better by doing Yoga with Halima! (Monday @ noon, Friday @ noon, Saturday @ 11:30am, Sunday @ 10am) ET. Teaching since 2014, Halima’s Vinyasa yoga classes focus on proper alignment and straightforward yet challenging sequences in a light-hearted, welcoming environment. Halima believes a mindful practice can decompress and strengthen the body, mind, and spirit! Off the mat Halima is a NYC based actor and Opening Act teaching artist who’s a proud U of Michigan alum. Classes are Pay What You Can.

WATCHING
Calling all Arts Orgs – Keep Those Interns (Especially Now)! Catch Opening Act’s Executive Director, Zareta Ricks, moderating this live streamed webinar on Wednesday, July 29th from 1pm – 2pm ET. Featuring Ami Scherson (Equity in Arts Leadership Program Associate, Americans for the Arts), Carol Loja (2020 Diversity in Arts Leadership (DIAL) Intern, Opening Act), Sarah Branch (Programs and Act 2 Coordinator and former DIAL Intern, Opening Act), and Kilea Francis (Act 2 Fellow, Opening Act). This conversation is centered on the importance of paid internships in advancing our next generation of leaders in the field. Discussion will also focus on how to make virtual internships meaningful and impactful for everyone. Register here!

All we have is this trailer but it’s enough to spark curiosity for Beyoncé’s, Black is King dropping Friday, July 31st on Disney Plus.

READING
We here at Opening Act are digging into Abolitionist Education as defined by Dr. Bettina L. Love. Take a moment to read more from her in this Education Week piece: An Essay for Teachers Who Understand Racism is Real.

LISTENING
WHAT?! Matthew Greene, Opening Act’s Act 2 College and Career Program Manager, was just named Winner of the Best New Song Prize 2020 (Stiles and Drewe Prize), along with Amir Shoenfeld for their soon to be hit ‘I’m Your Guy’ from their musical in development, Benny in Beta. Enjoy Tyrone Huntley (Jesus Christ Superstar) performing the number here! Congratulations Matthew!

LEARNING
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is so important to developing young people into thoughtful, accountable, and empathetic adults. Theater and improv supercharge SEL in the young (and old) alike. However, the application of SEL can be problematic if it is not placed squarely in an antiracist context. Dr. Dena Simmons gets us caught up on this national discussion with her issue brief, Applying an Equity Lens to Social, Emotional, and Academic Development.

FAMILY FUN
Homemade popsicles are what’s happening this week with this hot, hot, heat!

Perhaps we can stay cool by dreaming of winter … Opening Act Teaching Artist, Stephanie Anderson, is part of the creative team behind this NYU Steinhardt production of The Winter’s Tale. This innovative, virtual performance features a neurodiverse ensemble of 23 young performers! Two opportunities to catch the broadcast, Friday, July 31st @ 7pm ET and Saturday, August 1st @ 2pm ET (Actor talkback immediately following the 8/1 performance).

COMMUNITY
We can’t stop sweating here at Opening Act! During this week’s heat wave, take a break at your closest cooling center, head to your local playground’s splash pad, take a dip at the pool, or cool off by the beach. Did you know the custom of uncapping fire hydrants has been in practice since the heat wave of 1896? Anyone over 18 can ask the local fire department to uncap the hydrant in these extreme temps. Stay safe and hydrated out there!

Free Professional Development workshops focused on digital skills-building, self-care, and collaborative art-making for administrators, educators, and artists (of all ages). The NYC Arts in Education Roundtable hosts these free, weekly sessions through August on Thursdays @ 4pm ET. Full line-up and info to register here!

WHAT OA STUDENTS ARE UP TO
Today we cheer on Opening Act students, Muhammad Ali, Latavia Hall, Adara Rosemont, and Jennifer Solon as they start The Barrow Group’s 3-Week Teen Acting Intensive! Awarded scholarships through a partnership between Opening Act and The Barrow Group, these incredible young artists will collaborate with other teen actors from across the country, learning script analysis, scene study, and so much more! Break a leg!!!

Thanks for reading and please reach out with suggestions and submission ideas to hello@openingact.org and don’t forget to follow our Act 2 Fellows on Instagram!. See you next Monday!

Got your back! 

Monday, July 20, 2020

Summer is here and Opening Act is ready to Yes, And … with a weekly roundup of notable events, helpful resources, and delightful distractions to keep you connected, inspired, and activated through the summer months. Delivered to your inbox every Monday morning, the OA Summer Series will keep you up to date on what’s worth knowing so you can relax and enjoy your summer!

If you have friends or relatives who would like this weekly resource guide, you can tell them to sign up here.

BE WELL
Say hi and feel a high with Hi Noon Improv! (Thursdays @ noon, 30 minutes) Did you know that just 20 minutes of improv practice promotes overall wellbeing? Join Opening Act’s Jeremiah Thompson (Act 2 Fellow) and Cathleen Carr for this weekly improv boost to keep you connected and resilient! Jeremiah and Cathleen both believe strongly that anyone can benefit from the pro-social skills activated through improv practice. This free, weekly, 30-minute session is suitable for anyone needing a lift and a laugh. No experience necessary and all are welcome. Registration is required.

Feel better by doing Yoga with Halima! (Monday @ noon, Friday @ noon, Saturday @ 11:30am, Sunday @ 10am) Teaching since 2014, Halima’s Vinyasa yoga classes focus on proper alignment and straightforward yet challenging sequences in a light-hearted, welcoming environment. Halima believes a mindful practice can decompress and strengthen the body, mind, and spirit! Off the mat Halima is a NYC based actor and Opening Act teaching artist who’s a proud U of Michigan alum. Classes are Pay What You Can.

WATCHING
“When you see something that is not right, not fair, not just, you have to speak up. You have to say something; you have to do something”
– John Lewis

May we honor the life and legacy of John Lewis – whose passing stung us awake this past weekend – through continued commitment and action towards a just world. An excellent tribute is to gather family and friends to watch John Lewis: Good Trouble, a just-released documentary of his monumental life and work. Let’s get into some good trouble, together.

READING
Thrilled to catch this glowing piece about Opening Act Artistic Advisory Board member and Brooklyn native, Dominique Fishback in Entertainment Weekly! Starring opposite Jamie Foxx in the upcoming Netflix feature film Project Power, Dom has been an incredible mentor to Opening Act students in the classroom and on the stage.

LISTENING
Uzo Aduba has been activating and mentoring Opening Act students for years as a member of our Artistic Advisory Board. Listen to Uzo speak with Variety’s Mark Malkin about the world, playing the iconic Shirley Chisholm, and young people driving the change we wish to see.

LEARNING
Black Theatre United (BTU) hosts Our Voices. Our Votes. Our Time, a Virtual Town Hall on Friday, July 24th at 7:00 pm ET. Featured guests will be Stacey Abrams, Founder of Fair Fight & Fair Count, and Dr. Jeanine Abrams McLean Vice President of Fair Count. This conversation will be moderated by Tony, Emmy and Oscar Award winning Actor, Activist and BTU member Viola Davis. Register here to join this important conversation. Founding members of Black Theatre United include Opening Act Artistic Advisory Board member Kenny Leon (who just won the Obie!)and Opening Act supporter, Billy Porter.

FAMILY FUN
Follow along with Opening Act Teaching Artists, Dana Shulman, Ayo Oneké Cummings, and Jose Suazo (Act 2 Fellow) as they guide you through an Opening Act virtual workshop.Recorded for students at the Graphic Educational Campus in Manhattan, this 25 minutes of fun, energizing, and creative play is a much-needed spark for you and the kids in your life!

COMMUNITY
Have you completed the Census yet? Opening Act is more than happy to nudge you along! The Census will shape how power and resources are distributed across NYC and the country for the next decade. Watch this short video about why the Census is important, then read this handy graphic to keep you motivated! And now… let’s complete the Census because if we aren’t counted, we don’t get counted!

Youth mental health is so important, especially during COVID-19. For people from birth to age 24, NYC Well is here to help. Check out this comprehensive and easy to read guide to connect you or your young person to resources and support.

WHAT OA STUDENTS ARE UP TO
Opening Act’s two-week Summer Arts and Leadership Conservatory wrapped up on Friday, July 17th with an excellent talk back with Jeremy Pope, who made history earning two Tony Award Nominations in the same seasons for Choir Boy and Ain’t Too Proud, and is currently starring in Netflix’s Hollywood.

Talking to students via Zoom from Los Angeles, Jeremy demystified his journey from just starting out actor looking for work, roles, and representation to his current success on stage and screen. He urged the young artists of Opening Act to, “Keep going, as hazy as it seems, especially right now. We are the next generation of artists and activists. Keep asking, ‘Why not us, why not me, why not now?’”

Congratulations to the incredible Opening Act students who completed the 2020 Summer Arts and Leadership Conservatory! Your hard work, commitment, and curiosity drives us onward! And special thanks to Opening Act Teaching Artists Andrea Ang, Claire Fort, and Caitlin Gaspar for your excellent facilitation, artistry, and endless support!

Thanks for reading and please reach out with suggestions and submission ideas to hello@openingact.org and don’t forget to follow our Act 2 Fellows on Instagram! See you next Monday!

Got your back! 

Monday, July 13, 2020

Summer is here and Opening Act is ready to Yes, And … with a weekly roundup of notable events, helpful resources, and delightful distractions to keep you connected, inspired, and activated through the summer months. Delivered to your inbox every Monday morning, the OA Summer Series will keep you up to date on what’s worth knowing so you can relax and enjoy your summer!

If you have friends or relatives who would like this weekly resource guide, you can tell them to sign up here.

BE WELL
Join Hi Noon Improv (Thursdays @ noon, 30 minutes) Did you know that just 20 minutes of improv practice promotes overall wellbeing? Join Opening Act’s Jeremiah Thompson and Cathleen Carr for this weekly free, 30 minute improv boost to keep you connected and resilient! Last week was a blast and we sure do hope you join us! No experience necessary and all are welcome. Registration is required.

Feel better by doing Yoga with Halima! (Monday @ noon, Friday @ noon, Saturday @ 11:30am, Sunday @ 10am) Teaching since 2014, Halima’s Vinyasa yoga classes focus on proper alignment and straightforward yet challenging sequences in a light-hearted, welcoming environment. Halima believes a mindful practice can decompress and strengthen the body, mind, and spirit! Off the mat Halima is a NYC based actor and Opening Act teaching artist who’s a proud U of Michigan alum. Classes are Pay What You Can.

WATCHING
NYC-based actors, comedians, and improvisers are the braintrust behind Netflix’s Astronomy Club Sketch Comedy Show. Before landing a Netflix series, this comedy ensemble was the first all-Black sketch team at Upright Citizens Bridge in NYC. Make time for some laughs this week, you deserve it!

Anthony Ramos – who we adore – asks Opening Act Alumni what they want to see on stage and screen and what they need from him. Watch this 9 minute clip. It’s honest, heartfelt, and very powerful.

READING
Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, National Book Award-winning author of Stamped from the Beginning and How to Be an Antiracist has released Antiracist Baby Board Book (illustrated by Ashley Lukashevsky). Thank you Dr. Kendi!

LISTENING
Tune into WNYC tonight (Monday, July 13th) at 8:00pm for the first of a four-part, serialized radio broadcast of Richard II, co-produced by The Public and WNYC Studios. “A fractured society. A man wrongfully murdered. The palpable threat of violence and revenge against a broken system. Revolution and regime change. This was Shakespeare’s backdrop for Richard II,” says Director Saheem Ali of the production. “It’s my hope that listening to Shakespeare’s words, broadcast in the midst of a pandemic and an uprising, will have powerful resonance in our world.” Featuring an extraordinary cast including André Holland, Lupita Nyong’o, and former Opening Act teaching artist Sean Carvajal, this not-to-be-missed radio production will be made available for download and streaming after the WNYC broadcast at WNYC Studios.

LEARNING
#WeSeeYou White American Theatre – a collective of artists and those working in the arts – have released their full demands. This important and illuminating document provides a roadmap towards a more just and equitable American Theatre. Take a read, learn more, and support this movement that includes Opening Act Artistic Advisory Board members Uzo Aduba, Marcus Gardley, Kwami Kwei-Armah, Tracey Scott-Wilson, and many other leaders in the field.

FAMILY FUN
Join Opening Act teaching artist Dana Shulman for FamProv daily @ 12:30pm on Socially Distant Improv! This delightfully imaginative and silly show features adults and kids alike creating joy through improv and song! Tune in on Instagram Live! 

Brighten your kid’s day and sprinkle a little glitter on your own with this episode of Bilingual Drag Queen Story Hour featuring Bella Noche reading Julián Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love and Just Add Glitter by Angela DiTerlizzi with illustrations by Samantha Cotterill.

COMMUNITY
For many years, Opening Act has been fortunate to partner with NYC-based photographer David Katzenstein. Two current projects, through his organization, The Human Experience, La Pequeña Despensa and No Justice, No Peace are visual, community-driven collections and actions worth knowing more about. 

We at Opening Act know all too well that arts education is the first to go in a budget crisis. Americans for the Arts and the National PTA have come together to create this Arts Ed Leaders Guide. This handy resource puts the power back in the sphere of parents, students, and the community to organize and advocate for equitable Arts Education. Great tool for your local organizing efforts!

WHAT OA STUDENTS ARE UP TO
Opening Act students completed their first week of our annual Summer Arts and Leadership Conservatory on Friday, July 10th. This exclusively online, two-week intensive brings together young artists for a rich and deep conservatory learning experience in the theater arts. Guest artist Darrell Grand Moultrie – one of America’s most diverse and sought-after choreographers and master teachers – spent time with students on Friday sharing his personal story, wisdom, and practical career advice.

Moultrie, a proud New Yorker, born and raised in Harlem, and a graduate of P.S. 144, Laguardia High School, and The Juilliard School, inspired and motivated students (and adults listening in) to remember, “It’s ok to fail miserably! You win when you take the risk.”

Thanks for reading and please reach out with suggestions and submission ideas to hello@openingact.org. Follow our Act 2 Fellows on Instagram and look out for for the latest on Opening Act’s Summer Arts and Leadership Conservatory. See you next Monday!

Got your back! 

Tuesday, July 7, 2020

Summer is here and Opening Act is ready to Yes, And … with a weekly roundup of notable events, helpful resources, and delightful distractions to keep you connected, inspired, and activated through the summer months. Delivered to your inbox every Monday morning, the OA Summer Series will keep you up to date on what’s worth knowing so you can relax and enjoy your summer!

If you have friends or relatives who would like this weekly resource guide, you can tell them to sign up here.

BE WELL
Join Hi Noon Improv (Thursdays @ noon, 30 minutes) Did you know that just 20 minutes of improv practice promotes overall wellbeing? Join Opening Act’s Jeremiah Thompson and Cathleen Carr for this weekly free, 30 minute improv boost to keep you connected and resilient! No experience necessary and all are welcome! Registration is required! 

Feel better by doing Yoga with Halima! (Monday @ noon, Friday @ noon, Saturday @ 11:30am, Sunday @ 10am) Teaching since 2014, Halima’s Vinyasa yoga classes focus on proper alignment and straightforward yet challenging sequences in a light-hearted, welcoming environment. Halima believes a mindful practice can decompress and strengthen the body, mind, and spirit! Off the mat Halima is a NYC based actor and Opening Act teaching artist who’s a proud U of Michigan alum. Classes are Pay What You Can.

WATCHING
Ahem. Have you watched Hamilton on Disney Plus yet?

Anthony Ramos made a surprise entrance for our alumni-led discussion, Hamilton Four Years On: Opening Act Alumni Discuss Hamilton, Black Lives Matter, and the Future. If you missed this poignant and powerful reflection from former OA students on the impact that Hamilton had on their lives, no fear! You can watch it here. 

READING
Opening Act Artistic Advisory Board member, Kenny Leon co-authored, along with Indira Watraoo, A New World Awaits Us for American Theatre. This is a must-read for the theater lovers among us.

LISTENING
Need to freshen your Spotify for the summer? Check out Opening Act’s first ever playlist, Got Your Back. Sourced just for you from alumni, teaching artists, and the staff of Opening Act!

LEARNING
Wow. Abolitionist Teaching and the Future of Our Schools, a webinar featuring Dena Simmons, Bettina Love, Gholdy Muhammad, and Brian Jones, has really inspired us. Produced by Haymarket Books and the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, this is a must-watch for those interested in learning more about antiracist and abolitionist education. 

FAMILY FUN
Nothing beats an 8 count shake out! Follow along with OA Teaching Artist Jesus Pellot as he leads this signature improv warm-up that has been energizing young people and teachers alike for years!

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan presents The Magic of Meditation on Wednesday, July 8th from 11:00 am – 11:30 am (ages 6 and older). You can register for this free, online workshop here. 

COMMUNITY
Read this moving valedictorian speech by Rafaelina Fabian Ciprian, a graduating senior from one of our 2019-2020 partner schools – Academy for Excellence in Leadership at the Bushwick Campus in Brooklyn – published in the New York Daily News.

WHAT OA STUDENTS ARE UP TO
Opening Act graduating seniors were welcomed into the Act 2 Alumni Network Thursday, July 2nd through our annual Open Mic Alumni Kick-Off event.
Students and alumni performed original pieces, played improv games, and shared knowledge and wisdom during this special event. Organized and facilitated by Act 2 Fellows, this annual event bridges graduating seniors into our strong and supportive network of alumni, mentors, and community partners. 

Thanks for reading and please reach out with suggestions and submission ideas to hello@openingact.org. Follow our Act 2 Fellows on Instagram and look out for for the latest on Opening Act’s Summer Arts and Leadership Conservatory. See you next Monday!

Got your back! 

Dear Opening Act Community, 

Today, we take a stand. 
Today, we kneel in solidarity. 
Today, we pause to reflect. 
Today, we move from wishful thinking to hope and action. 

Today, we shut down our virtual offices to remember George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Eric Garner, Trayvon Martin, Tamir Rice, Sandra Bland, Stephon Clark, Alton Sterling, Philando Castile, Dominique Clayton, Bettie Jones, Atatiana Jefferson, Botham Jean, Walter Scott, Sean Bell, and the countless names that are not listed. 

Today, Opening Act boldly confronts social and racial injustice. We address the heartache and pain of our black and brown communities, and we show them that BLACK LIVES ALWAYS MATTERED. The young people that participate in our programs are mirror images of the lives that have been violently taken, yet, they are the brightest hope for our future. 

Today, in solidarity of #BlackoutTuesday, we pause so our black and brown young people can know that we hear them, we see them, most importantly, we value THEM – their lives, the color of their skin, and the brilliance of their minds.

Today, we close to recalibrate and prepare for a better tomorrow. And we will not dismiss, we will not be silent, nor will we rest until we have elevated silenced voices, provided platforms, and done our due diligence to help disrupt and dismantle an unjust system.

The truth is, our students have been speaking for many years. Watch this powerful monologue from YESfest 2015 by the Clara Barton ensemble for just one of many examples. This painful moment we are living in is an opportunity to recommit hope to action. 

With great determination and relentless commitment,

Zareta Ricks, Executive Director
Opening Act Team & Board Members

Rising New York City actress talks about how her after-school theater experience helped shape her professionally

by Emily Davenport | amNewYork May 27, 2020

Brittany Adebumola has known that acting was her thing from the time she was a kid.

Adebumola got bitten by the acting bug while she was nine years old. At the time she lived in Florida and started to do some showcases before ultimately moving back to Brooklyn when she was 14 and joining Opening Act, which provides after-school theater classes for high schoolers that don’t have theater programs in their schools.

It was during her time at Opening Act where she really got to truly be herself and not hide from her personality.

“I’ve always been told that I’m extra and have a big personality,” said Adebumola. “Normally people tell you to dial it back, but at Opening Act I was able to be my full self.”

It was during her time at Opening Act where Adebumola got to experiment with different types of acting while also learning how to collaborate with the other students.

“I was familiar with traditional acting but Opening Act focuses a lot on improv,” said Adebumola. “You learn how to be more empathetic because every student comes from a different walk of life. Being able to collaborate with them was really inspiring. It made me grow a lot in understanding people.”

Since her time at Opening Act, Adebumola has graduated from Syracuse University with her BFA in Acting, and landed a role on “Grand Army,” a Netflix show that is set to premiere in 2020. The show is centered around five Brooklyn teenagers who attend Grand Army High School and watches them figure out their identities.

While she was participating in Opening Act, Adebumola was also taking part in Katie Capiaello’s acting school. It was through her connection to Capiaello that she got the audition for “Grand Army” and ultimately landed a role. However, it was her experiences at Opening Act that helped her feel comfortable on set.

“This was my first time on a television or film set. On the first day, you almost can’t focus on acting because there’s so much to take in,” said Adebumola. “There’s a lot going on, but you have to get the story through. At Opening Act you learn to think on your feet and be collaborative, so it really helped me manage my nerves.”

Four other actors on “Grand Army” also participated in Opening Act, which made the experience that much more fun for Adebumola.

“It was great to get to go on this journey with them and move on to the professional world.” said Adebumola.

For Adebumola, Opening Act was more than just an after-school program – it helped her navigate the professional world of acting by building up skills that she couldn’t learn anywhere else.

“For myself and a lot of Opening Act students, it goes way beyond performing on a stage,” said Adebumola. “In my experience, Opening Act taught me a lot of professional practices that I didn’t learn in high school, like making a resume. It made me feel more confident in professional spaces, including in college interviews and auditions. The tools I learned are what I’m using now to create and maintain these relationships.”

Interview with Aja Naomi King in amNewYork published Friday, May 15, 2020 by Emily Davenport

New York City after-school theater program to host year-end show online

An after-school theater program for New York City youth has launched a campaign to bring their year-end show online.

Opening Act is a nonprofit that provides free after-school theater programming to 57 of New York City’s most under-served public high schools. The program prides itself on bringing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment so that their students feel empowered to share their stories.

“It’s about more than just theater,” said Aja Naomi King, who serves on Opening Act’s Artistic Advisory Board. “It’s about giving students a chance to work on team building and collaboration. The students learn to develop empathy and commitment, which in turn helps create a pathway to have success in what they want to pursue in life.”

Opening Act’s new campaign, The Show Must Go ONLINE, was launched to help support YESfest, the organization’s year-end show where students can showcase their talents. 98% of Opening Act students said that their final performance gave them the opportunity to have their talents recognized by their peers, family, and teachers. 

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Opening Act wanted to make sure that their students didn’t lose this opportunity to show their stuff in this year’s YESfest.

“With everything shut down, there are students who have been disproportionately impacted by coronavirus,” said King. “It’s not just about theater, it’s an opportunity to connect. These kids feel like they have an impact at YESfest, and Opening Act refuses to let that go to waste.”

Those who wish to donate to The Show Must Go ONLINE can visit support.openingact.org/campaign/the-show-must-go-online/c282047. Funds will go to support Opening Act and all donations will be matched 1:1. 

“By participating and watching these kids, it is so important and valuable to let the youth know how important they are,” said King. “The value of that is unimaginably huge. Anyone who can take part is deeply appreciated.”

This year’s YESfest will take place at 6 p.m. on May 15. To watch this year’s YESfest, visit www.facebook.com/OpeningActNY/videos.

The Show Goes ONLINE TONIGHT!

The tenacity, ingenuity, and joy of Opening Act students takes center stage tonight at our 20th Annual YESfest Student Performances!

Tune in at 6pm on Facebook LIVE!

We are so proud of the young artists of Opening Act for showing up, week after week, ready and willing to connect, collaborate, and create with their ensembles and teaching artists! 

Aja Naomi King, star of How to Get Away With Murder and Opening Act Artistic Advisory Board member is quoted in amNewYork this morning saying …

“With everything shut down, there are students who have been disproportionately impacted by coronavirus,” said King. “It’s not just about theater, it’s an opportunity to connect. These kids feel like they have an impact at YESfest, and Opening Act refuses to let that go to waste.”

READ full interview here!

Don’t miss these young stars and their shining #HighSchoolProud moments!

Good news! Only $18k left to raise of our $100k goal! You can still double your impact and support this critical work. Give now and a generous supporter will match your donation, dollar for dollar!

Be well, and see you tonight!

#TheShowMustGoONLINE

Dear Opening Act Community,

I can’t believe how generous folks are – right now – during this extraordinary time. We’re halfway to our $100k goal with 4 days remaining before YESfest!

An anonymous supporter is boldly showing up for the students of Opening Act with a $10k match grant. Give now, and your donation will be matched, dollar for dollar!

Despite these tough times, what we can report is that students are showing up online each week to connect, create, and rehearse. They are safe, they are seen, and they are heard. We even have NYC Department of Education teachers opting in for theater games and warm-up exercises with their students. As long-term artists and educators, we know that improv makes people feel more comfortable and tolerant of uncertainty. Opening Act has the talent and the know-how to face this situation. We need you as a partner to get the job done because #TheShowMustGoONLINE!

DOUBLE YOUR DONATION (Now until Friday, May 15th)

And please join our students and celebrate their #HighSchoolProud moment this Friday, May 15th at our 20th Annual YESfest Student Performances on Facebook LIVE!

With gratitude,

Cathleen Carr
Associate Director of Impact and Communications

At Opening Act, every student matters, and every program counts.

Today is a day that we all stand together in global unity to ensure that our commitment to bring change, hope and, joy to the world continues.

#GivingTuesdayNow 

As our young people wrap up this unprecedented school year, your support will help us give them the Opening Act celebration and end of year performance that they have worked so hard for. 

LISTEN to Act 2 Fellow and Opening Act Alum, Jeremiah Thompson, on why YESfest, our end of year performances, are so important.

We are diligently committed to continuing the great work we’ve done for twenty years, and this is only possible through the generous ACT OF GIVING from our supporters.

May you and your loved ones STAY WELL, and thank you for helping us change the lives of our students ONE ACT AT A TIME!

GIVE TODAY

Follow and share Opening Act campaign content on INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK, and TWITTER. Check out our handy campaign toolkit with everything you need to share to your networks, family, and friends! 

Thank you! 

#TheShowMustGoONLINE

Notable Entertainment from Opening Act’s Artistic Advisory Board Members!

In the wake of the COVID-19 crisis, we had to cancel their 20th Anniversary Play Reading Gala – originally scheduled for April 6, 2020 – and quickly pivot to an online event. A robust community of supporters, including Billy Porter, Anthony Ramos, Aja Naomi King, Kenny Leon, and James Monroe Iglehart rallied around the organization to create a virtual production that inspired, entertained, and raised critical funds to sustain and support young people living in New York City. Produced LIVE on Zoom, March 25, 2020! For a round-up with more clips, click here. 

Opening Act is so grateful to all who contributed, supported, and (virtually) attended this magical event. We will always remember this time in history and #ShowUpToYesAnd will stand out as a showcase of human resiliency and the enduring power of community!

Zareta Ricks
Executive Director

Greetings Opening Act Community!

It is with great honor and joy that I introduce myself to you as Opening Act’s new Executive Director. For nearly two decades, I have been deeply committed to improving the lives of New York City youth by providing meaningful and impactful experiences that extend way beyond the classroom. In my first week with Opening Act, I’ve had the opportunity to see our programs in action, participate in improv exercises with our students, and get to know the amazing team behind the curtain. It has been magical to sit in a front-row seat and watch first hand how the success stories that I’ve read about actually unfold.

Zareta Ricks, Executive Director

We’ve all heard the old adage that it takes a village to raise a child; however, many of our villages need some repair. As a result, our young people need caring community members to step in, show up, and take on the role of village builders to ensure they have opportunities that ignite their creativity and brilliance with continuity and intention. This is why I joined Opening Act. Already from my first week in our classrooms, I have witnessed students authentically connecting with their teaching artists and ensemble-mates, displaying a strong sense of trust and willingness to collaborate fully (without smartphones in hand)! My time in the office, listening, learning, and asking questions has left no doubt in my mind that the villages I saw this week in classrooms across the city were built with care and intention.

The support I’m receiving as I step on stage during this watershed, 20th Anniversary year for Opening Act is incredible, and I cannot wait to celebrate with the larger community at our 20th Anniversary Play Reading Gala on April 6th! As we move towards the spring and the young people in our programs create performances straight from their hearts and minds, I’m energized to partner with you, so that we – together – can change the lives of our youth one act at a time.

With applause,

Zareta Ricks

Dear Opening Act Community,  

When I first entered Walton High School in the fall of 2003 as a new teaching artist with a small nonprofit called Opening Act, I wasn’t considering for a moment how my life was about to change. I was focused on making sure I remembered the vocal warm-up I was tasked to lead and the audition I needed to race to immediately after class. 

Suzy Myers Jackson, Teaching Artist since 2003

It didn’t take long for Opening Act’s students and our heart-filled process of making collaborative theater to eclipse my focus entirely, setting me on an astonishing journey, guiding me to where we find ourselves today.

While this week marks the end of my time as Executive Director, I am delighted to remain on staff through June as a Strategic Advisor, supporting our dynamic and accomplished incoming Executive Director, Zareta Ricks, and working closely with all of you during this critical 20th Anniversary Year.

It is the great gift of my life to have had the opportunity to work side-by-side with so many dedicated and awe-inspiring staff, teaching artists, volunteers, artists, supporters, and board members. The hours we’ve spent laughing, crying, collaborating, and simply being – together – has proven to be the most substantive and rewarding education one could imagine. 

Ultimately, it has been the students who have inspired my commitment. For 17 years, I have remained a teaching artist despite my evolving responsibilities as Executive Director. For two hours each week, year after year, I have journeyed alongside amazing ensembles of young artists creating shows that speak their truth, ask difficult questions, and voice their vision for a world they wish to see. I have watched young people develop the skills that will help them succeed in any profession. To humbly be a part of this process has been my deepest and most abiding honor. 

Upon my departure from Opening Act, I have one final ask of you. Please remain steadfast in your commitment to our students. We have built a strong and vibrant community that has the potential to unleash profound change in our divided world. The theater is life’s great laboratory to explore, create, and rehearse for a future that includes us all. While I may not be leading the mainstage production, please know that this work – arts and youth development access for all – will continue and must continue until everyone has the chance to take center stage. 

With love and gratitude,

Dear Opening Act Community,

It is with tremendous joy that we announce the appointment of Zareta Ricks as Opening Act’s new Executive Director beginning February 10, 2020. After a rigorous search involving members of our Board of Directors, Staff, Teaching Artists, and Opening Act Alums, Zareta was selected for her demonstrated experience as an exceptional and collaborative leader, capable of inspiring our extraordinary community as we embark upon our next act.

Zareta Ricks, incoming Executive Director

Zareta, a native New Yorker, has a deep knowledge of and passion for public education and its ability to provide opportunities for young people to realize their potential and actualize their dreams. Her relentless commitment to creating environments that provide youth with educational equity, meaningful opportunities, and intentional experiences has impacted the lives of thousands of students across the city.

Zareta comes to Opening Act from Change for Kids, where she served as the Senior Director of Programs and Innovation responsible for leading the development, implementation, and evaluation of their full portfolio of programs. During her tenure, Zareta served in various leadership roles and was a key contributor to the organization’s unprecedented growth and deepening of its capacity to deliver exemplary programs with an innovative approach. Under her direct leadership, programs expanded to include Graduating to Greatness – a program to prepare students for middle school – and a corporate social responsibility volunteer model to create symbiotic partnerships between their partner schools and corporations throughout NYC. 

Having attended public school all of her life, Zareta vividly remembers the joy of being introduced to arts education while in elementary school. When she is not trailblazing the youth development path, Zareta loves spending time with her three children and using them as “prototypes” for all of her program ideas.

Zareta studied Organizational Management at Mercy College in NYC, holds a professional certificate in Nonprofit Executive Leadership and Management from Fordham University, and is a member of the American Express Leadership Academy cohort for Emerging Nonprofit Leaders.

During this exciting 20th Anniversary Year, I couldn’t hope for a more dynamic and accomplished leader to champion our work, guide our incredible team, and steward our growth. We’re thrilled and so very honored to welcome Zareta to the Opening Act family.Please join us at our 20th Anniversary Play Reading Gala on April 6th to meet Zareta in person!

Most sincerely,

Suzy and Opening Act

All of us at Opening Act thank YOU for the gift of community!

Warm wishes to you and yours as we enter 2020!

Opening Act staff, missing Ebenezer Arthur and Kandace Pound

Here’s to our biggest year yet!

Click here if you’d still like to make an end-of-year gift to Opening Act, supporting #20years20more of high-quality arts programming for young people living in NYC!

Most sincerely,

Suzy and Opening Act

… for the individuals who support Opening Act!

Students | Alums | Board Members | Teaching Artists | Friends | You

Together, we commit to arts equity across NYC and beyond!

#GratitudeTuesday

Give today

Follow us on social to learn why Jared, Remington, Liza, Lori, Brittany, Pam, and Johnny support Opening Act …

#20years20more

Join Opening Act and Michael Longoria Tuesday, December 17th for…

Michael Longoria (Jersey Boys) sings us home for the holidays with a one-night-only Christmas concert with fellow Broadway talent to benefit the students of Opening Act!

BUY TICKETS HERE

Michael Longoria’s Holiday Hop
Tuesday, December 17, 2019
9:30pm
The Greenroom 42
570 Tenth Avenue
Inside YOTEL, Fourth Floor NYC

See you there!

#20years20more

… for the most exciting night of Opening Act’s 20th year!

Join us for a celebration honoring 20 years of Opening Act’s ground-breaking theater programming while looking toward 20 more years of history in the making!

More details about this not-to-be-missed event coming soon…

Mark your calendars now!

We are blown away.

Over the course of 20 days, we raised $165,142 … and counting! … for our #POWEROF20 campaign, exceeding our goal thanks to YOU!

By supporting the critical work of Opening Act, YOU are supporting life-changing access to theater for all young people living in NYC.

A BIG THANK YOU to our #POWEROF20 sponsor IHS Markit and challenge match partner Improv Asylum NYC!

Congratulations to our INCREDIBLE P20 Leaders who made our #POWEROF20 campaign a success!

Rachael Abbick, Brittany Adebumola, Marie Anderson, Gregg Arst, Temesgen Asmerom, Erika Atkins, Ashleigh Awusie, Omar Beer, Alexandria Bellivan, Loren Black, Kim Blair, Kym Blanchard, Jen Blood, Tracey Bookall, Cristin Boyle, Malia Braithwaite, Rebecca Brown, Dan Buell, Nikki Calliste, Suni Caraballo, Cathleen Carr, Rachel Carrico, Maura Cassidy, Ed Chidsey Aggie Chrakowiecka, Cristi Cohen, David Cohen, Nancy Comerford, Carolyn Conrad, John Cowan, Justin Daniel, Luke Doyle, Mallory Duncan, Andrew Eisen, Warachal Faison, Mark Fareri, Shelly Feldman Sussler, Michael Fleming, Claire Florian, Jared Gertner, Erin Gifford, Gabrielle Gilliam, Sari Granat, Gina Grandi, Matthew Greene, Iliana Guibert, Paul Gutkowski, Pam Hacker, Steve Halloran, Lahna Harper, Meredith Hellman, Marion Herbert, Zena Hinds, Diane Jackson, Jennifer Jackson, Gus and Charlie Jackson, Marcus Johnson, Christy Johnson, Mandi Joyner, Julia Kamin, Ali Kamin, Evan Kaufman, Celia Keenan-Bolger, Karen Kim, Sammuel Kim, Justin Klosky, Jenn Kuhlman, Nicole Kwan, Toby Lawless, Elizabeth Lewis, Gina Lewis, Ryan Macpherson, Mitch Malin, Kary Martinez, Michael Mastro, Meg McInerney, Marc Menchaca, Shorty Meyerson, Hannah Miao, Johnny Mickens, Liza Miller, Lisa Mishkin, Justin Molina, Peachy Myers, Suzy Myers Jackson, Maza Myrie, Hilary Nunez, Meghan O’Connor, Tricia Olds, Theresa Perkins, Nailah Peters, Kandace Pound, Rohini Pragasam, Anastasia Pronin, IQ Quiñones, Lily Raabe, Jen Pehr and Jon Ross, Carmine Salute III, Elisabeth Schaefer, Rebecca Schafer, Jonathan Schorr, Andrew Schorr, Ellen Schubert, Alex Scoolis, Timothy Shopa, Sustainable Sisterhood, Humzah Soofi, Sean Strobel, Rahul Tripathi, Jamie Trowbridge, LeeAnn Valvano, Leah and Greg VanHorn, Patrick Vassel, Matt Walters, Jonathan Wang, Christopher Wilkens, Kelly Wilkens, Valerie Yuen

#20years20more

Only 6 days of #POWEROF20 remain! 

Another dollar-for-dollar match!
Our campaign sponsor, IHS Markit, was so energized by the success of Improv Asylum NYC’s 5k match, they are supercharging the #POWEROF20 TODAY with another 24 hour, 5k, dollar-for-dollar match!

#MondayMotivation
Hear from star of How to Get Away With Murder and Opening Act Artistic Advisory Board member Aja Naomi King and then double your impact with a donation today!

HADESTOWN!
Donations of $100 or more will be entered into a drawing for 2 tickets and a backstage tour to the Tony award-winning Best Musical, HADESTOWN!

Please forward this email, share our posts on social, and DONATE today!

#20years20more

The #POWEROF20 begins TODAY! 

Listen to our alums talk about our 20 years of impact:

HADESTOWN joins #POWEROF20

Opening Act Artistic Advisory Board Member and Tony Award-Winner, Rachel Chavkin, would like to share something special…

If you donate $100 or more to the #POWEROF20, your name will be entered into a drawing for 2 tickets and a backstage tour to the Tony Award-Winning Best Musical, HADESTOWN! 

Looking back at what we’ve achieved in 20 years, imagine what we can do in 20 more!

Help us reach our goal of $150,000 in 20 days!

October 21 – November 9 

JOIN US!

DONATE TODAY
BECOME A P20 LEADER 

FOLLOW OPENING ACT ON SOCIAL FOR UPDATES, STORIES, AND MORE!

Twenty years ago, an intrepid collection of artists, activists, and educators came together for a simple purpose: use theater to give young people living in NYC something to look forward to after school.

This year, our #POWEROF10 Campaign becomes the #POWEROF20 as we celebrate 20 years of Opening Act. The Campaign is all about small donations adding up to BIG impact. And we need YOU to make that possible.

Officially launching in two weeks, we invite you to join us by becoming a #POWEROF20 LEADER!

• When you sign up to be a #POWEROF20 Leader, you join a cohort of engaged and passionate individuals committed to supporting equitable access to arts education and evidence-based youth development through theater.
• Opening Act provides all the tools you need to get your friends to make a small donation (think: $10! $25! $50!) towards our goal of raising $150,000 in 20 days, making it super easy and super fun!

Want to join us? Become a #POWEROF20 Leader today!

Is becoming a #POWEROF20 Leader not in the cards this year?
You can help us get a jumpstart towards our goal by DONATING today!  

October 21 – November 9

#20years20more

Spread the word on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!

…we’re celebrating 20 years of innovative, impactful theater programming with the amazing young people of NYC!

Witness this short clip from our 2019 Summer Arts & Leadership Conservatory to see how powerful theater can be in the lives of young people…

After an awe-inspiring summer with these young artists, new and returning students join teaching artists across 56 schools this week for the start of fall programming.

 AND we are…

   Piloting our first middle school program!

   Opening our first high school program in Queens!

   Expanding to 4 more District 79 sites!

   Continuing to support our students and alumni in their second act in life through our Act 2 College and Career Program!

Knowing what we’ve accomplished together over the past 20 years, imagine what we can do in #20more!

Opening Act is THRILLED to partner with Omaze & Sarah Jessica Parker to bring you an incredible opportunity!

 Meet Sarah Jessica Parker and go shoe shopping in one of her NYC SJP Boutiques

 Score two pairs of SJP Collection shoes (each!) to take home

 Enjoy a champagne toast (or your drink of choice) with SJP

 Be flown out to NYC and put up in a 4-star hotel

Deadline to ENTER is August 11th 11:59 PST!

“I have learned how important it is for people to just hear the word YES!”
-OA After School Student

“Act 2 has taught me that it is okay to come out of your comfort zone and take chances.”
-OA Act 2 Participant 

“I was homeless and in a low place at the time, so whenever [Opening Act] would come, it was like I could pretend to not be homeless … that’s what made me the happiest.”
-OA District 79 Student

Help us make a BIG impact by entering to win today!

Last weekend’s #YESfest2019 performances took our breath away!

Don’t miss this opportunity to see our amazing students in action!

FIVE ANGELS THEATER
789 10TH AVE (BETWEEN 52ND & 53RD)
NEW YORK CITY

YESfest is free and open to the public.

For more information, contact Sarah at sarah@openingact.org.

Can’t make this weekend? Support the work of our incredible students at the SOCIAL on May 30th!

Our students are offbook, energized, and ready to take center stage THIS WEEKEND at #YESfest2019, our annual festival of new plays!  

If you are unable to see this image please click here.

Check out our dynamic line-up this weekend, including Opening Act’s Student Leadership Company and our friends, The People’s Theatre Project!

FIVE ANGELS THEATER
789 10TH AVE (BETWEEN 52ND & 53RD)
NEW YORK CITY

YESfest is free and open to the public.

Can’t make it this weekend? Don’t worry! Plenty more incredible performances May 18-19!

For more information, contact Sarah at sarah@openingact.org.

Join us for THE SOCIAL, a celebratory night of wine, food, and fun, hosted by Opening Act’s incredible Social Board!

Connect with fellow Opening Act supporters, Opening Act alums, and new friends while enjoying excellent wine, incredible raffle packages, and so much more!

DETAILS
Thursday, May 30, 2019
7PM

The Strand Bookstore’s Rare Book Room
828 Broadway (at 12th Street), New York City

SPONSORED BY

---

HOST COMMITTEE
Ashlee Bolton, Maura Cassidy, Marissa Conrad, Cynthia Fontaine, Erica Futterman, Yasmine Kacha, Karen Kim, Cecile Lopez Mora, Lauren Rosalanko

SOCIAL BOARD
Lisa Akey, Jo Anthony, Claire Florian, Erin Gifford, Marion Herbert, Armani Johnson, Nicole Kwan, Johnny Mickens, Theresa Perkins, Anastasia Pronin, Humzah Soofi, Sean Strobel, Jonathan Wang, Valerie Yuen

On April 2nd, our students’ stories lit up the stage at IN THEIR OWN WORDS, our 13th Annual Play Reading Gala. Join us in May for YESfest 2019 where Opening Act students attending 56 schools across NYC will converge for our annual festival of new plays!

Serving as the culmination of our year-long theater programming, Opening Act students create and perform plays #InTheirOwnWords, exploring topics and themes important to them. Support our students as they take center stage and tell their stories!

To volunteer or for more information, please contact Sarah Branch at sarah@openingact.org

Psst! SAVE THE DATE for our Annual SOCIAL Event!
May 30, 2019
The Strand’s Rare Book Room 
828 Broadway, New York City

We are speechless. Tuesday, April 2nd has shown us, once again, the power the stage provides to ignite and amplify our students’ stories for all to see!

Check out more photos from the night!

COULDN’T MAKE IT?

You can still donate to help give our young people a stage on which to tell their stories!

SPECIAL PLAY READING THANKS TO:

Click HERE to see everyone who came together to make this night possible!

Whether or not you can join us in the theater, you can still win exclusive prizes AND support Opening Act’s 13th Annual Play Reading Gala, IN THEIR OWN WORDS, on April 2nd by purchasing raffle tickets today!

Raffle packages include: house seats to Broadway’s hottest new shows (with backstage tours!), one-of-a-kind vacation getaways, tickets to the US Open, and more! 

Find out the latest updates about our starry gala here and to purchase tickets for the event, click below.

Hi!

I hope you saw this exciting invitation from Opening Act last week!  We’d love to have you join us as we shine a spotlight on Opening Act students, backed by some serious star power (exciting cast announcements coming your way…)! 

I love the work Opening Act does empowering New York City teenagers and I am so proud to be a member of their Artistic Advisory Board.

Can’t make it? Visit www.openingact.org/play-reading to find other ways to support!

Sincerely,

Aja Naomi King
Award-winning actress, star of HOW TO GET AWAY WITH MURDER

Join us for Opening Act’s 13th Annual Play Reading Gala on April 2, 2019!
The finest talent from stage and screen will perform original works
by Opening Act students! IN THEIR OWN WORDS is a one-time only, must-see event!

DETAILS
Tuesday, April 2, 2019

NEW WORLD STAGES
340 West 50th Street
Between 8th & 9th Avenues

VIP TABLE GUESTS
6:30-7:30 pm: VIP Chef’s Tasting Menu and Wine Pairing
ALL GUESTS
7:30 pm:Pre-show reception with open wine bar & hors d’oeuvres
8:00 pm:Student and Celebrity performances
Post-show dessert and champagne toast

Exciting details about raffle prizes coming soon!

SPONSORS

PAST EVENTS

Past Play Readings have featured the talents of such actors as Uzo Aduba, Gbenga Akinnagbe, Cynthia Nixon, Aja Naomi King, Billy Porter, Auli’i Cravalho, John Slattery, Edie Falco, Anika Noni Rose, Loretta Devine, Jasmine Cephas Jones, Beau Bridges, Bernadette Peters, Dominique Fishback, and Courtney B. Vance, to name a few.  Featured playwrights have included Lynn Nottage, Katori Hall, Donald Margulies, Tracey Scott Wilson, Christopher Oscar Peña, Ike Holter, and Marcus Gardley.

STEERING COMMITTEE
Gregg Arst, Loren Black, Kym Blanchard, Cristi Andrews Cohen, Leah Day VanHorn, Warachal Faison, Amanda Granacher, Sari Granat, Iliana Guibert, Elizabeth Buckley Lewis, Charon Marden, Maza Tiyi Myrie, Jennifer Pehr, Rahul Tripathi, Mark Weinress

HOST COMMITTEE
Sandra Anojulu, Paul Cellupica, Carolyn Conrad, Philippe Dauman, Stephanie Dauman, Peg Donegan, Lahna Harper, Dana Herrman, Toan Huynh, Diane Jackson, Jennifer Jackson, Julia Kamin, Jean-Marc Levy, Jessica Linder, Jennifer Marrus, Cecile Lopez Mora, Jonathan Adam Ross, Andrew Schorr, Kyra Sedgwick, Maggie Walker

ARTISTIC ADVISORY BOARD
Uzo Aduba, Kristen Bell, Celia Keenan-Bolger, Rachel Chavkin, Dominique Fishback, Alexa L. Fogel, Marcus Gardley, Jared Gertner, Richard Hester, Matt Hoverman, Aja Naomi King, Kwame Kwei-Armah, Kenny Leon, Kobi Libii, Donald Margulies, Michael Mastro, Andrew McCarthy, Susan Mufson, Lizabeth Newman, Christopher Oscar Peña, Louis Scheeder, Jean Smart, Cecily Strong, Patrick Vassel, Michelle Williams, Tracey Scott Wilson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Ali Kamin, Rahul Tripathi, Helen Lin, Loren Black, Gregg Arst, Omar Beer, Kym Blanchard, Elizabeth Buckley Lewis, Robert Burton, Nikki Calliste, Leah Day VanHorn, Warachal Faison, Michael Fleming, Sari Granat, Iliana Guibert, Pam Hacker, Maza Tiyi Myrie, Rohini Pragasam, Jamie Trowbridge, Jonathan Schorr, Ira Schreck, Chris Wilkens

Join us for Opening Act’s 13th Annual Play Reading Gala on April 2, 2019!
The finest talent from stage and screen will perform original works
by Opening Act students! IN THEIR OWN WORDS is a one-time only, must-see event!

DETAILS
Tuesday, April 2, 2019

NEW WORLD STAGES
340 West 50th Street
Between 8th & 9th Avenues

VIP TABLE GUESTS
6:30-7:30 pm: VIP Chef’s Tasting Menu and Wine Pairing
ALL GUESTS
7:30 pm:Pre-show reception with open wine bar & hors d’oeuvres
8:00 pm:Student and Celebrity performances
Post-show dessert and champagne toast

Exciting details about raffle prizes coming soon!

SPONSORS

PAST EVENTS

Past Play Readings have featured the talents of such actors as Uzo Aduba, Gbenga Akinnagbe, Cynthia Nixon, Aja Naomi King, Billy Porter, Auli’i Cravalho, John Slattery, Edie Falco, Anika Noni Rose, Loretta Devine, Jasmine Cephas Jones, Beau Bridges, Bernadette Peters, Dominique Fishback, and Courtney B. Vance, to name a few.  Featured playwrights have included Lynn Nottage, Katori Hall, Donald Margulies, Tracey Scott Wilson, Christopher Oscar Peña, Ike Holter, and Marcus Gardley.

STEERING COMMITTEE
Gregg Arst, Loren Black, Kym Blanchard, Cristi Andrews Cohen, Leah Day VanHorn, Warachal Faison, Amanda Granacher, Sari Granat, Iliana Guibert, Elizabeth Buckley Lewis, Charon Marden, Maza Tiyi Myrie, Jennifer Pehr, Rahul Tripathi, Mark Weinress

HOST COMMITTEE
Sandra Anojulu, Paul Cellupica, Carolyn Conrad, Philippe Dauman, Stephanie Dauman, Peg Donegan, Lahna Harper, Dana Herrman, Toan Huynh, Diane Jackson, Jennifer Jackson, Julia Kamin, Jean-Marc Levy, Jessica Linder, Jennifer Marrus, Cecile Lopez Mora, Jonathan Adam Ross, Andrew Schorr, Kyra Sedgwick, Maggie Walker

ARTISTIC ADVISORY BOARD
Uzo Aduba, Kristen Bell, Celia Keenan-Bolger, Rachel Chavkin, Dominique Fishback, Alexa L. Fogel, Marcus Gardley, Jared Gertner, Richard Hester, Matt Hoverman, Aja Naomi King, Kwame Kwei-Armah, Kenny Leon, Kobi Libii, Donald Margulies, Michael Mastro, Andrew McCarthy, Susan Mufson, Lizabeth Newman, Christopher Oscar Peña, Louis Scheeder, Jean Smart, Cecily Strong, Patrick Vassel, Michelle Williams, Tracey Scott Wilson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Ali Kamin, Rahul Tripathi, Helen Lin, Loren Black, Gregg Arst, Omar Beer, Kym Blanchard, Elizabeth Buckley Lewis, Robert Burton, Nikki Calliste, Leah Day VanHorn, Warachal Faison, Michael Fleming, Sari Granat, Iliana Guibert, Pam Hacker, Maza Tiyi Myrie, Rohini Pragasam, Jamie Trowbridge, Jonathan Schorr, Ira Schreck, Chris Wilkens

In 2017, as part of our 3 Year Strategic Plan, Opening Act renewed our commitment to serving the most vulnerable populations of students, including our District 79 (D79) programs where we work with young adults earning their high school equivalency degrees. In the past few years we’ve expanded to serve a total of six D79 sites, including one of our newest partnering sites, Lincoln Square:

“Rave, our most consistent student in class, worked very hard on his monologue, specifically on how to stage it and bring it to life. He memorized his monologue for the December showcase and then performed it brilliantly. During our end-of-class checkout, he shared with the ensemble how grateful he is for Opening Act and that he always wanted to act but never had a place to do it until joining Opening Act.”
Fall 2018, Lincoln Square Campus

The spring semester starts next week, bringing new opportunities for students across all Opening Act programs to explore, create, and perform about themes that matter most to them. Follow us @openingactny to watch the devising process unfold as we head toward YESfest – our annual festival of new student work!  Hope to see you in the audience!

JOIN US! We are thrilled to announce that for the first time ever, our biggest event of the year will exclusively feature original works by Opening Act students, performed by a star-studded cast!

Secure your VIP table before they sell out! Contact Gabrielle Gilliam to find out more.

Individual tickets go on sale late February!

More details about this must-see event coming soon at openingact.org/play-reading…

Want a preview of what’s to come?

Watch highlights from last year’s star-studded event, HEAR ME HERE.

ARTISTIC ADVISORY BOARD: Uzo Aduba, Kristen Bell, Celia Keenan-Bolger, Rachel Chavkin, Dominique Fishback, Alexa L. Fogel, Marcus Gardley, Jared Gertner, Richard Hester, Matt Hoverman, Aja Naomi King, Kwame Kwei-Armah, Kenny Leon, Kobi Libii, Donald Margulies, Michael Mastro, Andrew McCarthy, Susan Mufson, Lizabeth Newman, Christopher Oscar Peña, Louis Scheeder, Jean Smart, Cecily Strong, Patrick Vassel, Michelle Williams, Tracey Scott Wilson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Ali Kamin, Rahul Tripathi, Helen Lin, Gregg Arst, Omar Beer, Loren Black, Kym Blanchard, Elizabeth Buckley Lewis, Robert Burton, Nikki Calliste, Leah Day VanHorn, Warachal Faison, Michael Fleming, Sari Granat, Iliana Guibert, Pam Hacker, Maza Tiyi Myrie, Rohini Pragasam, Jamie Trowbridge, Jonathan Schorr, Ira Schreck, Chris Wilkens

As we bid 2018 adieu, we take a moment to think about the dynamic community that surrounds Opening Act. We are so grateful to be supported by a network of individuals who believe, as strongly as we do, in the powerful impact that theater can have in the lives of young people.

Wishing you and yours a joyful holiday season!

Click here if you’d still like to make an end-of-year gift to Opening Act. The work we do quite simply isn’t possible without YOU.

Peace and warmth to you, and see you in the New Year!

Most sincerely,

Erika, Suzy, and Opening Act

“Opening Act didn’t give me the confidence to act. It gave me the confidence to be me.”

-Elijah Callahan, Opening Act Alum

Over the course of 10 days, 1031 individuals #SHOWEDUP in a big way for our students to be able to amplify their voices. Our #STORIES are what brings us #TOGETHER. Opening Act is working to build a stage big enough for everyone to tell their own #STORIES and your support of this work is a brave and powerful choice.

We’d like to take a moment to say THANK YOU…

Through individual contributions and our generous challenge grant from IHS Markit, we raised $110,000!!

Didn’t get a chance to donate during the campaign?

There’s still time for folks to jump on stage! #INCLUDINGYOU! DONATE! Every dollar makes a huge impact on our programs and students.

We cannot possibly thank our extraordinary Team Leaders* enough for going ABOVE AND BEYOND. Thank you also to the incredible team who helped us create our Daily Sparks: Jacob Gabbard, Benjamin Lundberg Torres Sànchez, Haldane McFall, Kelly Rockwell, Stewart Villilo, Teaching Artists, Alums, Board Members, and our incredibly dedicated staff! And last, but certainly not least, our AMAZING sponsor, IHS Markit!

With gratitude,

Erika & all of Opening Act

*Thank You, Extraordinary Team Leaders!

Alex Scoolis, Alexon Dos Santos, Ali Kamin, Allie Waxman, Allison Matty, Amanda Granacher, Anastasia Pronin, Andrew Freese, Andrew Schorr, Anna Lewis, Armani Johnson, Ashia Johnson, Ashley Ortiz, Ayana Walker, Benjamin Lundberg, Brian Wilkens, Brittany Adebumola, Cathleen Carr, Chris Wilkens, Christy Johnson, Claire Florian, Cleo Fleming, Cynthia Fontaine, Dan Buell, David Hsia, Diane Jackson, Ebony Clendenin, Elizabeth Buckley Lewis, Emily Comisar, Erika Atkins, Florinda Montanaro, Frank Vesce, Gabrielle Gilliam, Gina Lewis, Gregg Arst, Halima Henderson, Hayley Sherwood, Helen Lin, Ileana Agostini, Iliana Guibert, Ira Schreck, James McLoughlin, Jamie Trowbridge, Jen Pehr and Jon Adam Ross, Jennifer Jackson, Jessica Linder, John Cowan, Johnny Mickens, Jonathan Schorr, Joshua Sanchez, Julia Kamin, Julia Sirna-Frest, Justin Daniel, Kandace Pound, Kellee Blades, Kelly Wilkens, Kristine Schweinsberg, Kym Blanchard, Leah and Greg VanHorn, Lisa Akey, Liza Miller, Loren Black, Marcus Johnson, Marion Herbert, Marissa Heringer, Mark Fareri, Matthew Greene, Meghan O’Connor, Michael Fleming, Michael Mastro, Nancy Comerford, Nicole Kwan, Nikki Calliste, Omar Beer, Pam Hacker, Patrick Vassel, Paul Gutkowski, Rachael Abbick, Rahul Tripathi, Rebecca Shafer, Richard Hester, Rohini Pragasam, Sammuel Kim, Sari Granat, Sean Strobel, Theresa Perkins, Tim Shopa, Toby Lawless, Valerie Yuen, Warachal Faison, Zach Seal, and Zena Hinds.

We all have a #STORY to tell, a special moment, a time when we felt included…

Allow our students to invite you to join the spotlight:

The #POWEROF10 officially launches in two weeks, and we can’t wait to join #TOGETHER to tell a compelling #STORY of change!

What will it take for every young person to feel #INCLUDED?

YOU

Become a Team Leader, help us get a jumpstart on our goal and donate today, or spread the word on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

Opening Act is for everyone…#INCLUDINGYOU

#POWEROF10

October 17 – October 26

This week, new and returning students and Teaching Artists will join #TOGETHER in their Opening Act classrooms to create never-before-told stories that will spark imaginations, illuminating new pathways that will endure a lifetime. Through our values, we strive to help our students achieve success on their own terms, which can look pretty amazing. See for yourself:

 If you are unable to see image, click here. 

New year, more news!

Strategic Plan Update #YEAR2: How we’re doing on our 3-year Strategic Plan…

New after-school locations: 22 programs serving 57 public high schools!

Enhanced Programs: Act 2 innovates the career and college readiness space and our partnership with District 79 expands to 6 sites!

New Teaching Artists: Meet the newest members of our teaching artist team!

Our #POWEROF10 Campaign is right around the corner…

We #INVITE you to join us for this community-driven campaign to expand our impact and introduce new voices to the #CONVERSATION.

OPENING ACT IS FOR EVERYONE #INCLUDINGYOU

Join the #POWEROF10 by becoming a Team Leader. Click here for more info!