First ACT!
First ACT! was created to support, encourage and nurture students, pre-professionals, and working artists of all socio-economic backgrounds, races, ethnicities and genders so that they may receive the highest level of theatrical training, theatrical education, and opportunity possible. ACT of CT strongly believes that theater fosters empathy and inspires creative thinking while providing a safe space in which all can listen and learn from one another.
Scholarships and Apprenticeships
First ACT! supports enrollment in all of ACT of CT’s educational programming (including classes, conservatory, camps, private lessons, and other offerings) and also production and artistic apprenticeship, mentorship, and residency opportunities. Participants are given the opportunity to work directly with and learn from highly experienced and skilled theatrical professionals who are leaders in the industry. The First ACT! program strives to train the next generation of theatrical artists and technicians. To apply, please fill out the form on this page.
Audience Access Initiative
ACT of CT's Audience Access initiative allows student and individuals who have not had the opportunity to experience live theater the chance to attend a professional production and participate in a Q&A with leaders from ACT of CT. Through the generosity of private donors, ACT of CT will be offering tickets for its mainstage productions to small groups of students (grades 5 and up) and adults from traditionally underserved schools and communities. ACT of CT is grateful to the donors providing the means for the theatre to work toward fulfilling part of its mission: making theatre more accessible to a wider audience, including students and individuals of all socio-economic backgrounds, races, ethnicities and genders.
Sensory Friendly Performances
ACT of Connecticut’s Sensory Friendly series is designed specifically for our patrons with sensory sensitivities who may require adjusted production elements in order to enjoy the performance. For this special performance, technical elements are adjusted (including the omission of strobe lights, jarring sound effects, as well as leaving the house lights dimly lit for the duration of the performance).
This free performance is reserved only for our friends with sensory sensitivities and is not open to the general public. In order to reserve space, please contact the Box Office, (475) 215-5497 or boxoffice@actofct.org, with your contact information and the names of everyone in your party!
To learn more about these opportunities and to discuss potential ways to partner with ACT of CT’s First ACT! program, please contact FirstAct@actofct.org.
To support ACT of CT’s First ACT! program, please contact Development@actofct.org.