The PTP Academy
The PTP 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 PTP 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.
The PTP Academy is comprised of the Pre-Academy (K–5th grade), and the Academy Core (6th–12th grade). All participants receive a full scholarship.
Pre-Academy (Grades K-5)
In the Pre-Academy, students in grades K - 5 develop foundational theatre skills, as they devise an ensemble-based theatre piece that celebrates their identities and communities. Classes take place on Saturdays and students may enroll in the fall or spring semester.
Pre-Academy Registration Now Closed
Questions about the Pre-Academy? Contact us.
Academy Core (Grades 6-12)
Now Enrolling for Fall 2022
Apply by May 1st, 2023!
The Academy Core engages 6th–12th graders in a 6-year track to develop leadership and activism skills through ensemble-based theatre-making. These young artists and their families have signed a middle or high school contract, formalizing their commitment. All Academy Core Young Artists are required to take their core theatre-devising course each year and engage in performance opportunities ranging from in-studio performances to producing the annual We the People festival in May.
Academy Core program features 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.
Academy Core Admissions Process
Step 1: Apply
The application form is brief, can be completed in English or Spanish, and will take approximately ten minutes to complete. As part of the application, you will be asked for your calendar availability to attend an informational session, an audition, and a family interview. There is no fee to apply.
Step 2: Attend an Info Session (Mandatory)
All applicant families are required to attend a virtual information session on April 21 or May 12, 2023 at 6:00 P.M.. At this virtual session, PTP Academy staff will provide an overview of this multi-year program's curriculum, our commitment to our Young Artists, and the admissions process.
After submitting your application, Education Program Manager Reyna Erika Bonaparte will be in touch to confirm your attendance at one of the two dates.
Step 3: Group Audition
April 22 or May 13, 2023 by appointment at the Dance Project of Washington Heights (350 Fort Washington Ave.)
After reviewing student applications, PTP staff will reach out to applicants with either an assigned group audition time or a request for more information.
Step 4: Family Interview
May 30-June 2 by appointment only.
Following the group audition, applicants will either receive an invitation to participate in an informal family interview, or a notification that the applicant will not be moving on to the next step. Family interviews will be held virtually via Zoom and are the final step in the admissions process.
Frequently Asked Admissions Questions
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.
Each year we invite 36 new participants, 24 middle school students and 12 high school students.
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 at PTP work both ways. This is a chance for all participants to get a taste of the work we do at PTP and decide whether they would love to commit to a program like this.
The family interview gives the students, parent/guardians, and PTP 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 families are encouraged to prepare by discussing why each family member is interested in being part of the PTP Academy, and what they hope to gain from the experience.
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