Launched in 2017, this partnership between The Public Theater and Brooklyn College shapes the next generation of theater artists and administrators through exposure to, and experience in, all aspects of the theater. This partnership includes artist residencies, masterclasses and student fellowships. Residencies take place in the summer, with two artists or independent companies receiving a four-week residency at Brooklyn College. Student apprentices assist with production, dramaturgy and artist support. Masterclasses are curated by the Public to explore compelling, urgent issues of the American theater, involving students in nine half-day seminar-style sessions. In 2022, the fellowship portion of the program was expanded due to its success to offer a third fellowship for Brooklyn College students.

The Public Theater (The Public) was founded in 1954 on the principle that art belongs to everyone. This grant provides continuing support for The Public’s two flagship community engagement programs, Public Works and The Mobile Unit.

Launched in 2012, Public Works aims to restore and build community by connecting people through the creation of extraordinary works of art. Participants from across the five boroughs of NYC experience workshops, classes, social gatherings and theatrical productions culminating in large-scale joyous pageant-type presentations at The Delacorte in Central Park.

The Mobile Unit stages free professional theater productions and programs in local neighborhood venues where people with severely limited access to the arts are congregated, including correctional facilities.

To support a residency for Erika Dickerson-Despenza to gain experience and insight into all aspects of the nonprofit theater world. Her residency will culminate with a full production of her play, Cullud Wattah, and will be at The Public Theater

To support a residency for Patricia Ione Lloyd to gain experience and insight into all aspects of the nonprofit theater world. Her residency will culminate with a full production of her play, Eve’s Song, and will be at The Public Theater.

To support a residency for A. Zell Williams to provide him with the time and resources to write, generally, and develop his play, The Urban Retreat, produced in May 2014.