In 2012, with the support of The Pierre and Tana Matisse Foundation, we began our most ambitious youth development program: Epic NEXT; Developing Young Thinkers, Actors & Leaders. Through specifically-personalized pairings between artist-mentors and developing young artists, Epic NEXT utilizes a comprehensive, individualized approach to artistic and youth development.
The Epic NEXT program pairs Epic’s professional artists with selected students from Epic’s partner schools beginning in a summer lab and extending throughout the school year. Each Epic ensemble artist mentors 2 to 3 students a year in the theatre-making process as well as in leadership development, civic engagement, and college readiness. As the culmination of their work in the summer intensive, the students integrate the ideas and concepts explored in the program to create 30 minute touring plays based on different aspects of educational justice.
Epic believes that theatre is the art form that is uniquely capable of fostering social change, because it is always a journey: the journey of self-discovery and revelation the young artist takes as they express themselves in the public forum; the journey the accomplished actor takes as they transform themselves before the audiences’ eyes; the journey the audience takes as they experience the impact of a bold piece of theatre that challenges their expectations and engage in a public dialogue afterward with their community.
Changing lives all across NYC
Epic NEXT is already changing the lives and futures of its’ participants. Epic NEXT students have been admitted to top SUNY’s as well as private colleges including Muhlenberg, Ohio Wesleyan, Howard, Bard, Northwestern, Goucher, DeSales, Marist, Emerson and Arcadia. Since 2013, Epic NEXT students have received a total of more than ONE MILLION DOLLARS in scholarships.
Epic NEXT is made possible through support from foundations like the Pierre and Tana Matisse Foundation. We are pleased to offer free of charge to participating students:
- Metrocards and travel expenses
- Tickets to Broadway & Off-Broadway performances
- Master classes with professional artists
- Material for auditions and college prep
Epic NEXT returns this summer!
Click here for more information about upcoming Epic NEXT performances.