As I spend more time connecting with other organizations over our effort to amend ESSB 5814, I am also learning about some new amazing opportunities for our students and teachers!
For teachers in the Puget Sound area, you are undoubtedly familiar with The 5th Ave Theatre in Seattle. Like many professional performance organizations in the Seattle area, The 5th Ave Theatre offers discounted tickets to teachers and students. However, there is a Community Ticket Program through which free tickets can be made available to nonprofits. Think of the possibilities for your chapters: social outings with fellow teachers, taking students to see professional productions, prizes for competition/recitals, or maybe even as an auction item for your chapter’s fundraisers! Please contact me if you would like to learn more.
In addition, the Rising Star Project is an exciting opportunity for students 14-19 – not just actors and singers – to get some hands-on experience with professional theatre. This tuition-free career development program offers unprecedented access to professional training and mentorship. Students work alongside industry professionals to replicate a full production from The 5th’s season, giving them a truly immersive, professional work environment.
Participants gain hands-on experience in:
· Arts Administration
· Theatre Technology & Design
· Creative Leadership & Production
· Stage Performance & Orchestra
You can learn more about the Orchestra track, including what to expect and what instruments they are looking for here. Yes, there are also keyboard positions available. This opportunity is open to students with some experience playing in ensembles, but they do not need to be prize-winning students. Students are encouraged to apply if they have had some experience playing in the orchestra pit in school musical production.
Click here for an application. The deadline is January 5, 2026, and the musical this year is the iconic rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar.