Students who attend high quality after-school programs fare markedly better in school and have far lower incidences of drug use, violence and pregnancy. Nowhere is quality after-school programming needed more than in New York City, where only half of high school students graduate in four years and nearly a third drop out altogether. Of course, the city's worst performing schools also have the greatest programming shortages ? most acutely, programs that teach the arts.
Founded by actors and educators, Opening Act is a unique theater program that helps inner-city kids build self-esteem and develop leadership skills. It uses a curriculum that incorporates improvisation, acting games and exercises to unleash students' creativity, foster collaboration and develop professional acting technique. All productions are entirely created, written and performed by the students, who through artistic achievement develop leadership and problem-solving skills and strengthen their abilities in self-expression.
Bringing Arts Education to Schools Where the Need is Greatest
Opening Act specifically targets the city's highest need schools ? those with substandard reading scores, low graduation rates and a lack of arts programming. All of its programs are offered at no cost to schools. Past productions have included theme-based ensembles, series of one-acts, full length plays created through group improvisation and a modern adaptation of Shakespeare's Othello. The plays have been performed at The Public Theater, the Brooklyn Museum of Art, and the Gene Frankel Theater, among others.
The Catalog is delighted to help Opening Act grow and prosper, so that more kids can take on the roles of their lives.
"Opening Act has changed my life - I know I will always make it in whatever I want to be, no matter what." - DARREN, 16
Where Will My Money Go?
Your gift will help them stand up for themselves and their peers by funding:
