urbanStages outreach

For over 20 years, our Outreach Program has brought plays and workshops to all 5 boroughs of NYC in over 200 events a year. We have a repertoire of 20+ multi-cultural programs, ranging from plays that explore science, plays that spotlight historical figures as well as dance and mime workshops. Each show caters to specific age groups, from toddlers to families to Adult Learners. Many of the neighborhoods we reach (and return to multiple times) have little to no theatre and arts programming. We are even the first theatrical experience for some. Our programs travel mainly to libraries and non-profit organizations. They are all admission-free for patrons. For artists, our Outreach Program offers paid opportunities. We commission plays, pay royalties and fees allowing writers, directors, designers, actors and teaching artists to be working artists.

Under the Outreach Umbrella are our art residencies. We are able to offer extended theater and art related residencies for weeks to months at a time to places like to senior citizens centers, community centers and schools. In the past, we offered programming to LGBTQ homeless centers, centers helping women reclaim their lives from incarceration and drug abuse and various non-profit agencies. Finally, annually we hold a Summer Theater Camp for children 10-14 years old. Professionals teach our campers about all aspects of theatre and the campers collaborate on an original musical. We offer partial scholarships making our summer theater camp more accessible.