Springboard to Design Extends Application Deadline to January 15

	The program is scheduled to run July 19-25, in The Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab housed in The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts (NYC) at Lincoln Center.

Springboard to Design, the tuition-free theatrical design mentorship and education program for students from underrepresented communities, has announced an extension of the 2026 application deadline to January 15. The extension ensures more high school students from across the country and internationally have the chance to dive into the world of theatrical design, advancing the program's mission to broaden access and foster a more inclusive future in design.

Springboard to Design (SB2D) is presented by Design Action and led by Tony Award-winning designers Clint Ramos and David Zinn. Through hands-on workshops, seminars, and access to Broadway and off-Broadway productions -- onstage and backstage -- students will explore costume, set, lighting, projection, hair, makeup, and sound design.

"My experience at Springboard to Design showed me that the entire theatre industry is built on effective collaboration and community building," says alumna Sophia. "I continue to bring the skills I cultivated not just to my own community theatre, but also to the way I approach my homework or group projects."

"Springboard to Design encouraged me to take creative risks and trust my instincts," says alumnus Theo. "Before the program, I mainly thought about design in terms of theater, but through the experiences and guest artists, I realized how the same design principles apply to architecture, film, and even theme park design."

The program is scheduled to run July 19-25, in The Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab housed in The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts (NYC) at Lincoln Center. The cost is free, including tuition, housing, and supplies. Eligible international students are welcome to apply.

The application includes a few short essays. A brief introduction video, one original piece of artwork, and a $25 application fee (fee waivers available upon request). The fee goes directly back into the program to help keep the experience free for students. If the fee is a concern, the company says, requesting a waiver is quick and easy.