How it Began
Launched virtually in the spring of 2021, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mosaic was co-founded by Tony Award winner Karen Olivo, along with Project Broadway’s Tabitha Matthews and Yvette Kojic. What began as a small online creative space for eight students seeking connection and inspiration quickly grew. Later that same year, a second virtual cohort expanded to twelve students from across the U.S. and internationally—proof that creativity and community could thrive even in challenging times.
In 2022, Mosaic transitioned to its first in-person cohort, welcoming students from the New York Tri-State area under the direction of Broadway artist Anthony Wayne. Since then, the program has grown steadily, now celebrating its fourth year of programming.
To date, Mosaic has supported more than 50 young artists, many of whom have continued their creative journeys through higher education in musical theater and theater.
About the Program
The Mosaic Training Program is a six-week, in-person musical theatre masterclass that brings young performers into the heart of New York City—the center of the Broadway world.
Through focused training in acting, voice, and dance, students work with Broadway professionals, experience the energy of the city firsthand, and develop the discipline, confidence, and artistry needed to grow as performers.
The program runs Sundays from February 22 through March 29, with regular sessions held from 10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m at Ripley Grier Studios 500 8th Avenue. The final session will conclude with a Student Showcase, extending the day to 1:00 p.m.
Mosaic invites up to twelve (12) BIPOC artists, ages 14–19, to participate tuition-free through full scholarships provided by Project Broadway. Participants are selected based on passion, potential, and a demonstrated desire for access to high-quality musical theatre training, and receive mentorship typically found in professional settings.
Program Highlights
- Musical Theater Masterclasses from Broadway teaching artists
- Weekly feedback and mentorship
- Headshots from a professional photographer
- Final student showcase/presentation for top–notch industry guests
Eligibility
- Students must self-identify as Black, Indigenous, or a Person of Color (BIPOC), including Latinx, Asian, and mixed-race identities.
- Must be in 9th-12th grade at the time of application.
- Students must demonstrate how access to this tuition-free program would support their artistic growth and opportunity, as described in the Statement of Access & Impact.
Judith Franklin
2026 Lead Teaching Artist
From the moment she could dream, Judith Franklin’s heart has belonged to the arts. Growing up in Missouri City, Texas, she imagined herself singing and dancing on world stages like Whitney Houston, commanding the screen like Phylicia Rashad and Viola Davis and aspiring to bring all her gifts together as a true triple threat, much like the incomparable Leslie Uggams.
Judith’s passion for performing ignited in her hometown church, and that spark grew as she attended Houston’s Grammy Award-winning High School for the Performing & Visual Arts, majoring in vocal and dance. From there, she earned a music scholarship to Clark Atlanta University, where she graduated with a BA in Theatre Arts.
Judith’s Broadway dream came true when she joined the National Broadway Company of Motown The Musical (her dream show), traveling the world and sharing her voice and story. She has also been seen on stage in Broadway’s Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, understudying the legendary role of Donna Summer herself. Her journey continued when she joined the Original Broadway Cast of Tina: The Tina Turner Musical and the revival of The Wiz.
Judith has also performed Off Broadway, toured across the United States, and brought her art to the Caribbean, Africa, Europe, and South America. Today, she continues to build, create, and inspire as an artist, producer, entrepreneur, and proud member of Broadway Inspirational Voices.
But most importantly, Judith wants young artists to know this: your dreams matter. The stage, the studio, the classroom…there is space for you. Your voice, your story, and your imagination are powerful. The arts can take you places you’ve never dreamed of, and who you are and who you are becoming is always enough.
From church choirs to Broadway stages, Judith’s journey is a testament to the power of dreams, hard work, and faith.
My story isn’t just about me, it’s about inspiring others to believe that anything is possible.
Apply Now
Applications due on or before February 15, 2026.
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