MCC Theater's Education & Outreach Department reaches out to underserved New York City public high school students, using theater to unlock a world of knowledge and creativity that they may use to express their unique and dynamic voices. We believe that theater and theatrical techniques are effective tools to engage young minds and that theater education can inspire students to use their artistic talents to solve real-world challenges. We also believe that all teenagers have artistic talent and a voice that deserves to be not only heard but celebrated. Our work with students has two components: a unique classroom partnership program in which individual schools' arts education needs are custom-met by experienced teaching artists, and the MCC Theater Youth Company, a free, professionally led program for teenagers interested in acting and playwriting.

Acting, improvisation, movement, playwriting, script analysis, and other theater skills propel youth to become involved in school curriculum and help them to develop a greater sense of self confidence. In the MCC Theater Youth Company (YC), young writers and actors write and perform four shows annually.

MCC Theater seeks to build in our students an appreciation for the arts and for themselves as potential artists. Even if our students do not pursue a career in the arts, the interpersonal skills, teamwork, confidence, and social poise they learn while engaging in theater will help them to find success in whatever career they may choose.

For more information about the Youth Company, click here.
For more information about classroom partnerships at MCC Theater, click here.