Theatre Scholarships and Grants for 2025 and 2026

Are There Scholarships for Theatre Majors?

Yes, many scholarships and grants are available for students pursuing degrees in theatre, performing arts, or related fields. These scholarships are offered by universities, professional organizations, and arts foundations to support students interested in acting, directing, stage management, and production design.

What Is the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship?

The Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship is awarded to college theatre students who excel in acting. Eligibility requirements include:

• Being nominated during participation in the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF).
• Demonstrating exceptional acting talent during auditions.
• Competing in regional and national competitions.

Scholarship awards range from $500 to $5,000, depending on the level of competition.

Are There Scholarships for Women in Theatre?

Yes, scholarships specifically for women in theatre include:

• Jane Alexander Scholarship: Supports female students pursuing degrees in acting, directing, or playwriting.
• Association for Women in Theatre Scholarship: Awards funding to women excelling in theatre arts.

These scholarships aim to increase representation and opportunities for women in the performing arts.

What Is the Donna Reed Performing Arts Scholarship?

The Donna Reed Performing Arts Scholarship supports high school seniors and college students pursuing theatre or other performing arts. Eligibility includes:

• Submitting a video audition showcasing acting or musical theatre talent.
• Demonstrating academic achievement and artistic dedication.
• Writing an essay about career goals in theatre or the performing arts.

Awards typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 annually.

Are There Scholarships for High School Students Interested in Theatre?

Yes, high school students can apply for scholarships such as:

• National High School Musical Theatre Awards (Jimmy Awards): Recognizes outstanding musical theatre performances by high school students.
• YoungArts Foundation Awards: Provides funding for talented high school students excelling in theatre, acting, or directing.

These scholarships encourage young talent to pursue careers in theatre and the performing arts.

What Is the Theatre Communications Group (TCG) Scholarship?

The TCG Scholarship supports students pursuing advanced degrees in theatre or related disciplines. Eligibility includes:

• Enrolling in a graduate theatre program, such as directing, playwriting, or dramaturgy.
• Demonstrating a commitment to promoting diversity in the performing arts.

Awards range from $2,000 to $5,000, with additional funding for professional development opportunities.

Are There Scholarships for Theatre Production and Design?

Yes, scholarships for production and design include:

• USITT (United States Institute for Theatre Technology) Scholarships: Awards for students specializing in lighting design, scenic design, costume design, or stage management.
• Stagecraft Institute of Las Vegas Scholarship: Provides funding for students pursuing careers in stage and technical production.

These scholarships support students focusing on behind-the-scenes roles in theatre.

What Is the Actors’ Equity Association Scholarship?

The Actors’ Equity Association Scholarship provides funding for actors and stage managers pursuing theatre degrees. Eligibility includes:

• Being a member of the Actors’ Equity Association or the child of a member.
• Enrolling in a college theatre program.
• Demonstrating financial need and artistic talent.

Awards range from $1,000 to $5,000 annually.

Are There Corporate Scholarships for Theatre Majors?

Yes, several corporations offer scholarships for theatre students. Examples include:

• Disney Theatrical Productions Scholarship: Supports students excelling in musical theatre or theatre production.
• Warner Bros. Reach Honorship: Provides funding and internships for students studying theatre, film, or media production.
• NBCUniversal Tony Co. Fellowship: Awards for aspiring Broadway performers or producers.

These scholarships often include mentorship and internship opportunities in the entertainment industry.

What Are Some University-Specific Scholarships for Theatre Majors?

Many universities offer scholarships tailored to theatre students, such as:

• Juilliard School Drama Scholarships: Need-based and merit-based awards for students in one of the top theatre programs in the world.
• Carnegie Mellon School of Drama Scholarships: Funding for undergraduate and graduate theatre students excelling in acting, directing, or design.
• NYU Tisch School of the Arts Scholarships: Merit-based and need-based awards for students pursuing theatre and performing arts degrees.

Contact your university’s theatre department for additional opportunities.

How to Apply for Theatre Scholarships?

To apply for theatre scholarships:

• Prepare an Audition or Portfolio: Most scholarships require acting reels, performance videos, or portfolios for technical design students.
• Write a Personal Statement: Highlight your passion for theatre, career goals, and artistic achievements.
• Research Opportunities: Look into national programs like the Irene Ryan Scholarship and local theatre organizations.
• Meet Deadlines: Ensure all required materials, including letters of recommendation and transcripts, are submitted on time.

Applying to multiple scholarships increases your chances of receiving financial aid for your theatre education.