Builders, storytellers, and curious creatives—you belong here.

Springboard to Design gives students the chance to dive into the world of theatre design and discover new artistic possibilities—no experience required. With housing available and tuition fully covered, this program is built to remove barriers for the next generation of theatre designers.

Photo Credit: Rebecca J Michelson

Springboard to Design is a free summer program that introduces high school students from underrepresented backgrounds to the world of theatrical design. Through hands-on workshops and mentorship from award-winning artists, students explore costume, set, lighting, sound, and projection design in the heart of New York City.

Photo Credit: Rebecca J Michelson

WHO WE ARE

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 consist of award-winning artists who 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. Those living outside the NYC area are encouraged to apply: the program provides housing for students and one guardian each at no cost. 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 program 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.

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.

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. The days are roughly 9am-11pm, with significant breaks. Participants are taken to evening shows, which let out between 9pm and 11pm.

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.

When will I hear back if I applied?

Decisions from the 2025 application cycle were released in April.

Any more questions?

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

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