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Applications for the Inaugural 2026-2027 Emerging Arts Leadership Cohort will open July 15th.

A group of teens hanging out on indoor steps eating pizza and smiling

The Emerging Arts Leaders Program is Arlington Children's Theatre's premier leadership opportunity for teens who are passionate about theatre, education, and making an impact in their community.

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Designed for students ages 14–18, this year-long cohort empowers young artists to become mentors, facilitators, and creative leaders while gaining real-world experience in theatre production, arts education, and nonprofit leadership. Participants receive mentorship from industry professionals, collaborate with community partners, and help shape meaningful theatre experiences for younger students and audiences throughout the Greater Boston area.

Emerging Arts Leaders

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What You'll Do

As an Emerging Arts Leader, you'll:

  • Mentor and support younger actors

  • Help select and shape a youth production

  • Participate in exclusive workshops with theatre professionals

  • Explore careers in directing, choreography, stage management, design, marketing, and arts administration

  • Design study guides, audience engagement activities, and post-show discussions

  • Collaborate with community organizations and arts partners

  • Build leadership, communication, and facilitation skills

  • Create a professional portfolio and resume-ready leadership experiences

What You'll Gain

By the end of the program, participants will leave with:

  • Leadership experience

  • Mentorship and teaching experience

  • Public speaking and facilitation skills

  • Professional connections

  • Career pathway exploration

  • A leadership portfolio

  • Resume-building experiences

  • Increased confidence in their creative voice and leadership abilities

Program Highlights

  • 12–15 Teen Leaders Selected Annually

  • August 2026 – June 2027

  • 3–5 Hours Per Week Commitment

  • Bi-Monthly Meetings

  • Industry Workshops

  • Youth-Led Production Leadership Experience

Leadership Pathways

Throughout the year, participants can explore specialized leadership tracks, including:

  • Directing & Artistic Leadership

  • Choreography

  • Stage Management

  • Technical Theatre & Design

  • Accessibility & Inclusion

  • Arts Marketing

  • Curriculum Development

  • Nonprofit Arts Administration

A teen volunteer with a teacher hanging a Delta Nu sign for Legally Blonde to prepare for a show
A group of 15 teens and a teacher posing for a group photo
Who Should Apply

The Emerging Arts Leaders Program is ideal for teens who:

  • Want to take on greater responsibility within ACT

  • Enjoy working with younger students

  • Are interested in theatre beyond performing

  • Want to develop leadership and professional skills

  • Are passionate about making a positive impact through the arts

Previous leadership experience is not required. We are looking for enthusiastic, collaborative, and motivated young people who are ready to grow as artists and leaders.

Our Vision

We believe theatre is more than performance; it is a pathway to confidence, connection, and leadership. Through mentorship, collaboration, and creative ownership, Emerging Arts Leaders develop the skills to make a difference both onstage and in their communities.

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