Research has demonstrated that children who participate in arts programs indicate having a deeper understanding of themselves, demonstrate less at risk behaviors and perform better academically. With this in mind, during the 2017-2018 academic year, Project Broadway piloted the Community Arts Partnership Program. Through partnership with organizations and schools including Hunts Points Alliance for Children, Harlem Grown, Murrow High School, St Hope Academy and Gilda’s Club, Project Broadway offered free theater arts programs to over 200 children from at-risk backgrounds, low socio-economic means and to those who have survived a trauma or loss. Utilizing a workshop format, we engaged participants in theater games, dance/musical instruction, and Q & As with Broadway professionals.
Curriculum themes include self-confidence, anti-bullying, female empowerment and arts exploration; workshops are able to be tailored to the specific needs of attendees. Many workshops culminate with a trip to a Broadway performance and backstage tour; for most participants, this was their first live theater experience. Children and administrators offered high praise for the program expressing sentiments including, “I cannot begin to thank you for the profoundly wonderful experience you provided to the scholars”, “This morning when I arrived to work I was met with the most effusive words of joy from those who attended”, and, from one young participant, “This changed my life.”
Here is what some Project Broadway honorees have to say about their involvement in shows, camps, productions and workshops, made possible by your generosity
Getting to be involved in Broadway Workshop’s Children’s Musical Theatre Festival was not only one of the greatest experiences I have ever had, but an insanely inspiring one as well. It would have never been possible without the generous scholarship from PROJECT BROADWAY. I feel so fortunate to have had incredible training from some of the most talented people I have ever worked with, while making so many new friends from all around the country, and learning so much in just one week about musical theatre and the industry. Without that scholarship, I would have missed out on a truly amazing experience. I cannot thank Broadway Workshop & Project Broadway enough.
— Anthony, Student
Being part of the Teen Excel Intensive program was was such a great experience. Project Broadway has made my summer so wonderful and I am so thankful for this amazing opportunity. It is an honor to be part of it. Getting to work with the incredible teachers has made a huge impact on my future. There are not enough words to say “Thank you” to Project Broadway.
– Quinn, Student
The programs I have been able to be part of because of Project Broadway have made me a better actor and person. In these programs, I feel like myself, and I become more confident in my own skin. I have learned so much from my incredible teachers over the years, and this is truly a priceless education. Learning from the best on Broadway is such a once a lifetime experience, and I appreciate that Project Broadway given me that opportunity. I am forever grateful for continuing to inspire me and help me grow.
-Isabella, Student
The entire team at Project Broadway have truly have defined my future career. I fully intend on being a part of the performing arts world with the confidence of what I have learned and will continue to go into learning with this company. My family and I are so grateful for a place as welcoming and warm. I truly believe that this company is the best experience I could have ever imagined!
– Catherine, student
I cannot thank you enough for providing scholarship for my daughter which allowed her to be part of a wonderful production. I am a single mom raising two very talented children that are both in the industry of entertainment. It means the world to me to give them a chance to be part of the program and to learn from the very best. Being a recipient of a scholarship means the world. You have made dreams come true.
– Victoria, Parent
My parents are great providers but have limited on resources, the Project Broadway program at Broadway Workshop program gave me an opportunity to pursue my passion. Because of the generous scholarship to attend the program, I have gained the confidence I did not have and have grown as a performer. This program has taught me a work ethic and a level of professionalism that not only takes place in our rehearsals but in my every day life.
— Kevin, Student
Thank you so very much for the amazing opportunity you gave me with this camp. I had a fantastic time and learned so much from everyone. A huge thank you to the teachers who took the time to work with all of us, too. It was one of the best weeks of my life.
— Emma, Student
I just wanted to say “Thank You” from the bottom of my heart for all of the work and time you put in with our kids this past week. Our students had the time of their lives, and I was so impressed with the level of professionalism displayed by your staff. My daughter learned so much, and was so excited to share all she had learned every day. The Showcase was amazing, and I know this workshop will be a lifetime memory for these kids!
— Kelly, Mother
The opportunities given to me through Project Broadway have been endless. This program has been such a blessing to me. I have gotten to work with so many incredible teachers, I wouldn’t have been able to do that without the help of scholarship funds! I am forever grateful!
— Sarah, Student
We love your staff for helping kids fulfill their dreams. As a teacher, I know that it’s rewarding and exciting to see your students learn and grow. When my daughter took the stage at the showcase, I didn’t recognize her as she appeared so confident and mature.
