Young Artist Program

This Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe program develops up-and-coming performers.

Maicy Powell Young Artist Program Performance Image

Part of the mission that guides everything we do at WBTT is to support the development of a dynamic group of aspiring artists and build confidence in youth of color. We created our Young Artist Program with the intent of helping our up-and-coming performers take their careers to the next level, through mentorship, financial assistance, and a stage. Young Artist Program performers receive the net revenues from their show to further their artistic careers or education.

Raising the Curtain for the Next Generation

The Young Artist Program provides talented performers who have participated in our youth education program, Stage of Discovery, or performed in a show on our stage, an opportunity to showcase their talents on our MainStage in their own production.

Through the program, selected artists learn the entire process of show production. They have their hands in every facet, from on-stage aspects like finding a band, hiring co-performers, if desired, and arranging for lighting and sound assistance to off-stage requirements such as marketing and publicizing their show. Mr. Nate Jacobs and the WBTT production staff mentor the artists from pre-production to performance time.

The Young Artist Program has featured such WBTT favorites as Maicy Powell, Astrid Victoria, Michael Mendez, Leon Pitts, Raleigh Mosely II, Neyce Pierre and Earley Dean.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Individuals and corporations can show their support by underwriting production costs of the shows. This underwriting is a charitable donation to WBTT. You can also directly support the artists by purchasing a sponsor ticket to their shows for $100. Either sponsorship provides you with VIP seating, prominent visibility, and recognition at your sponsored production.

Net proceeds from the productions are used to further the artistic development of the young artist through professional training, schooling, or meaningful artistic creations of their choice.

If you would like to support the Young Artist or Independent Artist Programs, contact Development Director Debra Flynt-Garrett at dfgarrett@WestcoastBlackTheatre.org or 941-404-7755.