Opening Act

OPENING ACT: CHANGING LIVES THROUGH THEATRE EDUCATION Committed to advancing arts equity in NYC and beyond, Opening Act actively centers student voices through free, high-quality theater education programming. For twenty-five years, we have provided students in NYC’s most under-resourced public schools the opportunity to gain confidence, pride, and the knowledge that they can succeed at anything in life. WHY THEATER EDUCATION? New York City prides itself as the theater capital of the country, yet only 38% of NYC high schools offer theater education. This leaves thousands of students without access to a critical resource — especially those from marginalized communities and under-resourced backgrounds. Opening Act believes all students deserve to reap the benefits of arts education, specifically theater. WHY OPENING ACT? Our programs strive to bridge the arts education access gap and ensure that all students across NYC reap the benefits of a robust theater education experience. Opening Act’s unique student-centered curriculum leverages improvisation and playmaking skills, empowering students to develop their artistic voice and leadership qualities. OUR IMPACT 93% of students report that Opening Act motivated them to attend school. 96% are better able to understand how others think & feel 98% of students say Opening Act taught them skills they will use in a future career. 100% of students feel more confident in themselves as a result of participating in Opening Act 100% of students say Opening Act helped them feel confident taking on challenges, inspired them to work hard and grow, and made them feel safe.