Springboard to Design, Design Mentorship/Education Program, Accepting 2026 Applications

	The application includes a few short essays, a brief introduction video, one original piece of artwork, and a $25 application fee (waivers available upon request).

Springboard to Design, a tuition-free theatrical design mentorship and education program for students from underrepresented communities, is now accepting applications for its 2026 program. This weeklong intensive offers high school students the chance to dive into the world of theatrical design, with no experience required.

Springboard to Design (SB2D) is presented by Design Action and led by designers Clint Ramos and David Zinn. Through hands-on workshops, seminars, and access to Broadway and off-Broadway productions, students will explore set, costume, lighting, projection, and sound design under the mentorship of award-winning theatre professionals.

"Springboard to Design is close to my heart because it gives young artists from underrepresented communities the chance to see themselves in this industry," says Ramos, who also serves as Lincoln Center's artist-in-residence. "This program affirms that they have the power to build meaningful, fulfilling careers."

"Springboard to Design opens the door to possibilities students may never have realized were within reach," Zinn says. "Collaborating with award-winning designers and craftspeople, seeing productions, and experiencing the world behind-the-scenes allows students to grow their confidence, their creativity, and their sense of community."

The program will run July 19-25, 2026, at the Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab housed in The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts (NYC). The cost is free, including tuition, housing, and supplies. Current high school seniors graduating in the spring of 2026 are eligible. Eligible international students are welcome to apply.

The application deadline is December 15. The application includes a few short essays, a brief introduction video, one original piece of artwork, and a $25 application fee (waivers available upon request). The application fee goes directly back into the program and helps keep the experience free for students.

The Springboard to Design curriculum includes workshops, seminars, and access to important work on and off Broadway. Instructors consist of award-winning artists who create a collaborative environment for students, as they explore costume, set, lighting, projection, hair, makeup, and sound design.

Visit SpringboardtoDesign.com to apply and learn more.