Deadline: July 31, 2026
Applications are open for the Kaleidoscope Dreams Fellowship 2026. The Kaleidoscope Dreams Fellowship connects early-career professionals to paid Broadway-level work experiences in order to help emerging artists from underrepresented communities develop sustainable careers in the arts.
Kaleidoscope Dreams Foundation (KDF) believes that sustainable careers in the arts are built on equitable professional development opportunities. The Kaleidoscope Dreams Fellowship connects early-career professionals to paid Broadway-level work experiences in order to help emerging artists from underrepresented communities develop sustainable careers in the arts.
For the 2026 KDF Fellowship, they are building a cohort of five (5) emerging New York-based theater artists who are committed to developing and applying their craft in service of something larger than themselves.
Benefits
- Compensation: All Fellows will be compensated at a weekly rate of $1,300 while working on assigned productions during the Fellowship period.
- Professional Mentorship & Work Experience: Each Fellow will work on a professional production, engaging in hands-on work alongside professionals within their respective artistic disciplines. Through this, they will have the opportunity to sharpen their skills and familiarize themselves with the ecosystem of commercial Broadway productions. Fellows will be paired with a mentor in their particular role who will guide their work and delegate tasks and responsibilities during the fellowship period. Mentors will be asked to provide additional learning opportunities and guidance as they see fit.
- Fellow Orientation: Before the first week of rehearsal, KDF will convene all Fellows for an orientation. Fellows will meet with KDF staff, build rapport with their cohort, and be introduced to the resources, network, and connections available through KDF.
- Weekly Fellowship Meetings: Each week, Fellows will engage in sessions designed and facilitated by KDF staff and guest speakers. These sessions will enhance industry knowledge, expand professional networks, and support long-term career sustainability. Time will also be built in for cohort check-ins and peer connection.
- Ongoing Staff Support: KDF’s Program Director will maintain regular check-ins with each Fellow throughout the program to ensure ongoing support, clear communication, and timely resolution of any concerns.
- Partnership Network: KDF will connect Fellows to organizations within our network for ongoing resources and support during and beyond the Fellowship. Network partners include Harriet Tubman Effect, RISE Theatre, and the How to Stand Out Network. Each Fellow will also have access to career coaching to assist with identifying next steps post-fellowship.
- Virtual Workshops: Fellows and KDF alumni are invited to ongoing virtual workshops featuring guest speakers and industry leaders. These provide additional professional development resources and community beyond the fellowship itself.
Eligibility
- Open to New York-based theater artists who are committed to developing and applying their craft in service of something larger than themselves
- Prior experience in a creative capacity within theater or live performance is a plus
- Strongly encouraged industry skills related to specific track
- Interest in connecting craft to community-oriented work
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel)
- Availability for evening and weekend work as needed
- Reliable, punctual, and able to complete tasks independently and collaboratively
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Demonstrated emotional intelligence (self-awareness, empathy, motivation, etc.)
- A naturally curious mindset and the ability to manage up when needed
- Comfortable working with people from diverse backgrounds and across departments
Application
A complete application includes:
- A resume
- A one (1) page personal statement that touches on:
- Your artistic practice and previous training
- Your career goals
- What you hope to gain from the Fellowship
- How you imagine your artistry serving community
- Contact Information for two (2) professional and/or academic references
You may also include:
- Any links to portfolios, websites, etc.
For more information, visit Kaleidoscope Dreams Fellowship.
