The Academy for Theatre, Leadership & Advocacy

Applications will open on February 9th!

The People's Theatre Academy is a rigorous, multi-year theatre and social justice leadership program in Upper Manhattan dedicated to the holistic development of immigrant youth and youth of color. We envision the Academy as an artistic laboratory that fosters a deep sense of belonging, a brave space where participants can come as they are and grow in their social-emotional learning as young artists and leaders.

All participants receive a full scholarship.

Click to Express Your Interest

From Middle School to Graduation: Building Leadership Through Theatre

The People's Theatre Academy is intentionally designed to engage Young Artists starting in middle school and continuing with them as they progress into high school and beyond. This unique 6-year program requires participants to commit to 2-year segments, each focusing on a specific set of skills: leadership in the first phase, theatre in the second, and advocacy in the final. The curriculum is carefully scaffolded to foster a comprehensive development in ensemble-based devised theatre-making. Each year of the Academy culminates with a performance in a theater during the Academy's We the People Festival. In addition to the core curriculum, the Academy supports the holistic development of Young Artists through the following offerings.

Academy offerings include:

Arts & Activism Electives
College and Career Readiness Opportunities
Excursions to Broadway or Off-Broadway shows
Summer Lab—a 2-week summer theatre intensive
Wraparound Services- In partnership with local organizations, young artists can receive priority access to resources and opportunities.

Frequently Asked Admissions Questions

What do I need to prepare for the audition?

No need to prepare anything in advance for the auditions. The participants will be engaging in group activities that explore ways to collaborate with other young artists and be creative in different ways. Wearing comfortable clothing is advised as movement is involved in the activities.

How many participants do you accept each year?

Each year we invite 24 middle school students to join the Academy.

What are you looking for in the audition process?

We strongly believe that we are all artists and activists so no need to have prior experience in acting in order to participate in the audition process. We are looking for enthusiasm, commitment, collaboration and creativity. Also, the auditions work both ways. This is a chance for all participants to get a taste of the work we do at The People's Theatre and decide whether they would love to commit to a program like this.

What can we expect in the family interview?

The family interview gives the students, parent/guardians, and Adademy staff members an opportunity to find out more about each other, gauge the family’s commitment to the program, and answer any questions that have come up along the way. Interviews are informal and held virtually. Families are encouraged to prepare by discussing why each family member is interested in being part of the Academy, and what they hope to gain from the experience.

Who will be facilitating Academy classes?

Each class is led by a Teaching Artist with a background in Educational or Applied Theatre. Additionally, all Academy classes include a Supporting Artist who assists with communication with families and classroom management.

Unless otherwise noted, all classes take place at the NoMAA Studios at the United Palace Theater (4140 Broadway) in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Upper Manhattan.