Opening Act Turns 25!

This year, Opening Act is celebrating 25 years of empowering young people through theater. Since our founding in 2000, we’ve been on a mission to bring the transformative power of theater to New York City students — helping them discover their voices, build confidence, and develop the skills they need to succeed both on stage and off.

A Quarter-Century of Impact

Over the past 25 years, Opening Act has:

• Reached thousands of students across NYC public schools

• Supported young people in building critical life skills such as collaboration, creative problem-solving, and self-expression

• Connected students to professional theater artists and the broader cultural community

• Helped launch the careers and passions of countless alumni who continue to shape the city’s arts landscape

Whether through in-school workshops, after-school programs, or citywide ensembles like the Opening Act Youth Company, our programs have always focused on showing up, listening, and creating space for every student to take the stage.

Celebrating the Moment

This milestone is not just about looking back — it’s about looking forward. We’re taking this moment to reimagine our programs, strengthen our community, and build toward the next 25 years of impact. Throughout the year, we’ll be sharing stories from alumni, highlighting the creativity and resilience of our students, and celebrating the dedication of our teaching artists and supporters who make our work possible.

Join the Celebration

Opening Act’s 25th Anniversary is a chance for everyone in our community — students, alumni, supporters, and theater lovers — to reflect on the power of theater to transform lives. We invite you to celebrate with us, stay tuned for special events and performances, and join us in shaping the future of youth theater in New York City. Visit https://secure.qgiv.com/for/openingact-giving to support today!

Here’s to 25 years of bold stories, creative risks, and voices heard on stage — and to the next 25 years of Opening Act!