Photo Credit: Rebecca J Michelson

Springboard to design applications are now open!

Springboard to Design encourages and mentors high school students from underrepresented populations to explore the process of theatrical collaboration and the many avenues of American Theatre design. Led by renowned members of the contemporary theatre in the heart of NYC, the Springboard to Design curriculum includes workshops, seminars, and access to important work on and off Broadway. Instructors will consist of award-winning artists who will create a collaborative environment for students, as they explore costume, set, lighting, projection, and sound design.

Springboard to Design aims to provide students with access to theatre education they may not otherwise receive. Therefore, no prior experience is required to participate. Applicants with an interest in sewing, fashion, drawing, painting, building, creating, and storytelling are highly encouraged to apply. Students who already have a love for theater but don’t know where they fit in are also encouraged.

Springboard to Design is a tuition-free program. Students are responsible for getting to and from the program each day. There are a limited number of rooms available on a first-come, first-serve basis for students based outside of NYC who wish to attend. Any student requesting a room must have a parent or guardian with them for the duration of their stay/outside the hours of the program.

This summer, Springboard to Design is proud to partner with The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, who is hosting the events in their building on the Lincoln Center campus.

Springboard to Design was recognized by the 2023 Anthem Awards as a Bronze Winner for Education, Arts, & Culture - Community Engagement.

Applications are due February 28th, 2025.

Frequently asked questions

Who is eligible for the program?

The Springboard to Design program is for high school students (grades 9-12) from underrepresented populations.

Where does Springboard to Design take place?

Springboard to Design will take place in the theatre district in midtown Manhattan. The program has qualified staff that will supervise participants at all times during the program. All of our staff are at least eighteen years of age and have strong leadership skills and experience.

What will participants do during the program?

The Springboard to Design curriculum includes workshops, seminars, and access to important work on and off Broadway. Instructors will consist of award-winning artists who will create a collaborative environment for students, as they explore costume, set, lighting, projection, and sound design.

What are the dates of the program?

In 2025, the program will take place from July 6th - July 12th

Is there a cost to attend the program?

This is a tuition-free program, therefore there is no cost to attend. Students are responsible for their transportation to and from the program. 

Are there any skill or previous experience requirements?

No, not at all! This program is for everyone, especially those just starting out. Springboard to Design aims to provide students with access to theatre education they may not otherwise receive. Therefore, no prior experience is required to participate. Applicants with an interest in sewing, fashion, drawing, painting, building, creating, and storytelling are highly encouraged to apply. Students who already have a love for theater but don’t know where they fit in are also encouraged.

Any more questions?

Ask away! Please reach out to us at springboardtodesign@gmail.com

Photo Credit: Rebecca J Michelson

Some of our Past contributors include:

  • Alejo Vietti

  • Amber Whatley

  • Clint Ramos

  • David Bengali

  • David Zinn

  • Dede Ayite

  • Derek McLane

  • donyale werle

  • Gabriel Clausen

  • Jadyn Buchanan

  • Jane Cox

  • Jeanette Oi-Suk Yew

  • Jocelyn Girigorie

  • Ken-Matt Martin

  • Lear deBessonet

  • Leigh Silverman

  • Lucy Mackinnon

  • Nevin Steinberg

  • natasha Katz

  • Paul Tazewell

  • Rachel Chavkin

  • Rachel Hauck

  • Robert O'Hara

  • Sam Pinkleton

  • Schele Williams

  • Whitney White

  • Yee Eun Nam

  • Qween Jean

  • Cody Renard Richard

  • David Korins

  • Christopher Vergara

  • Suki Tsujimoto

  • Jake DeGroot

  • Justin Townsend

  • Paloma Young

  • Anita Yavich

  • Machine Dazzle

  • Kevin Adams

  • Tal Yarden

  • Sophia Skiles

  • Mark Stanley

  • Celeste Jennings

  • Miguel Urbino

  • Amara McNeil

  • Justin Ellington

  • Mikaal Sulaiman

  • Eric Winterling