Do you dream of being or working on Broadway?
Do you know that you can have a rewarding career in the theatre even if you never set foot on stage?
Are you passionate about performance?
Do you enjoy coming to Shea’s and want to play a bigger role in what happens in this historic building?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions than The Shea’s Ambassador Program (SAP) is for you!
The SAP is designed to transform young people into arts leaders, team players, advocates, and engagement experts. In the program, we aim to create a supportive learning environment where we can be our whole selves, embracing and encouraging differences, and focusing on the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion throughout the program.
The program facilitates learning through exposure, collaboration, creativity, service, and engagement in the arts. Unique artistic opportunities as well as work readiness training for those interested in pursuing a career in the arts, or an arts related field, will be provided. Participants in this program will better understand the importance of community voluntarism, enhance interpersonal skills, build self-confidence, and foster new relationships and networks.
The SAP is a free leadership development program for a diverse and distinguished group of Western New York high school students in grades 10-12. Applicants are curious about performance arts and want to build leadership and teamwork skills. 2021-22 Ambassadors will be selected by application process. Passing academic grades, access to a Wi-Fi enabled device such as a laptop computer, tablet, or cell phone, and reliable mode of transportation are necessary to participate. If you need assistance with technology or transportation, please apply and let us know.
Being a Shea’s Ambassador means you will represent Shea’s Performing Arts Center in all you do AND have access to a wide range of activities and learning experiences, such as:
This new program will begin virtually and transition to an in-person/hybrid program through the year
pending local health regulations. Arts, theatre, or leadership experience is not required to participate! We are looking for students with
commitment, curiosity, enthusiasm, and positive attitudes. The program runs October 2021- June 2022. Please complete and submit your application to Jen Mysliwy at JMysliwy@Sheas.org by 5:00pm. on September 22nd to be considered for this year’s cohort.
Eligibility
Theatre-interested high school students ages 15-18 who reside in Western New York are eligible to apply. No leadership or theatre experience is required. We accept applicants from public, private, and charter schools, and students who are home-schooled or attend alternative schools.
Health and Safety
Shea’s Performing Arts Center is committed to following current State, County, and CDC guidance for reducing the spread of COVID-19. All Shea’s staff are required to be fully vaccinated, and all program applicants will need to be fully vaccinated to participate. If you have questions regarding this policy please contact Jen Mysliwy, Arts Education Coordinator at JMysliwy@Sheas.org
In the case of changes to local COVID-19 health regulations that prohibit in-person activities we will pivot to virtual access for as long as needed.
Program Commitment
This is a nine month, approximately 45-50-hour hybrid (virtual and in-person) program. Students and parents/guardians, please check the calendar and dates below to ensure your availability. This program allows for flexibility with individual schedules and interests but does require each Ambassador to attend Monday meetings. It is recommended that participants attend at least seven (7) events through the year.
Location and Access
Some meetings and workshops will happen over Zoom and require participants to have access to a Wi-Fi enabled device such as a laptop computer, tablet, or even a cell phone. Other portions of the program require in-person participation at Shea’s PAC. We are located at 650 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14202. Parking is available on Main and all adjacent streets. It is important for you know that the pay meters are in effect 8:00 am. to 5:00 pm. Monday through Friday, unless otherwise posted. Events will not conflict with your school schedule and most call times occur when parking is designated as free.
SAP Calendar of Events, Workshops, Meetings, Special Assignments, and more.
(Please be aware that some dates/times may change)
Monday October 4th 6:00pm. Virtual Welcome Meeting for the 2021-22 Shea’s Ambassadors
October 28-November 14th-The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time run at Shea’s 710
Monday November 1st 4:30pm. In-person Workshop (possible subjects, Marketing and Media, or Dramaturgy/Blog writing)
Monday December 6th 6:00pm. Virtual meeting for all SAP’s
Thursday Dec 2-4th (time tbd) Origin Stories Project
Monday January 3rd (time tbd) Individual check- ins with SAP membership (virtual)
Wednesday January 19th 5:30pm.-9:00pm. Kenny Social Event
Monday February 7th 4:30pm. In-person SAP Workshop
Monday March 7th SAP Meeting (time and place tbd.)
March 17-April 3rd-Kinky Boots run at Shea’s 710
Monday April 4th SAP Meeting (time and place tbd.)
April 23 – May 15th Once On This Island run at Shea’s 710
May, The Kenny Awards
Friday and Saturday June 3rd and 4th (9:00 am to 3:00pm) Junior Theater Celebration
Monday June 6th SAP 6:00pm End of Year Celebration
Other opportunities will include Kids’ Night on Broadway, Master Classes, Parades and Community
events, Panels, Backstage Tours, Saturday Academies, and more.
To be considered, please fill out and submit this application by September 22, 2021
