New Directions
New Directions serves teenagers interested in the arts. The program is structured to assist them in their transition into adulthood and independence. New Directions uses theater arts to help develop self-esteem, self-respect, and work skills. This program also enhances survival skills and helps the young participants to prepare for self-sufficiency through job readiness.
Each week, Black Ensemble Teaching Artists will utilize drama, music, and dance in activities designed to enhance the learning, cognitive, and social skills of students. Through these activities, students will develop a culminating show which will be performed on the Black Ensemble Theater stage!
- Ages 13-20
- Every Saturday 11am – 1pm
- Classes are free!
Classes begin June 22, 2024 – Contact Tia Jemison for more information: tjemison@blackensemble.org
About New Directions
Created and produced by Jackie Taylor, the New Directions program is an innovative program that addresses the myriad of problems that youth face in their everyday lives. The program teaches youth theater skills that strengthen their cognitive, work and social development skills. New Directions has proven to be highly effective in helping youth work toward their self-growth and development, while supplying them with problem-solving tools to enable them to overcome obstacles and barriers as they move toward independence. The program builds self-esteem, pride, self-respect, and self-awareness and instills motivation. It helps our youth to understand who they are and where they are going.
The Black Ensemble Theater uses theater as an educator to strengthen the positive aspects of human existence. We believe that theater is an educator, which can teach youth and adults how to increase their self-esteem, self-respect and respect for others, while learning how to make positive life choices. Since its inception, the Black Ensemble Theater has provided educational outreach programs to enhance the skills development of thousands of children, youth and their families. We have eight educational outreach programs: Strengthening the School Through Theater Arts, New Directions, Theater for Special Women, Theater for Special Men, Plays With A Purpose, Arts for Parents in School Communities, Summer Training in the Technical Arts, and Community Access.
If you would like more information about this program, please contact Tia Jemison at tjemison@blackensemble.org or (773)754-3921.