Journal 2 Journey: APPLY TODAY!
Through an accessible yet thoughtful application process, six youth participants, ages 16 to 20, are selected to participate in a paid 15-week intensive, where they will work collaboratively with professional theater artists to refine their writing skills and devise a professional one-act theatrical production.
J2J youth artists explore themes of the American experience and identity and are invited to bring their lived experiences to the page in a safe, collaborative environment. Upon successful completion of the program, youth artists will receive a stipend and will conclude the program with two live public performances.
Preview the application
Program Eligibility
J2J is open to young people ages 16-20. While no prior experience is required, applications should demonstrate a strong interest in theater, performing arts, the humanities and/or the arts.
Participants must be available for 15 afternoon and evening sessions in Brooklyn, NY, and for the final public performances in May 2026. Regular attendance, punctuality, and active professional engagement are required throughout the program. Scroll down this page for the complete schedule.
Audition Process
Invited applicants will audition in late January 2026, performing a short spoken monologue, poem, or speech of their choice.
Program Highlights
Each participant works closely with a thoughtfully selected team of professional artists and teaching mentors throughout the 15-week program. Mentors guide participants through writing, devising, and performance processes, offering individualized feedback and collaborative support. J2J intentionally maintains a small cohort to ensure personalized attention and a supportive environment.
Mentors are practicing artists with expertise in theater, performance, creative writing, and education.
J2J alumni also frequently serve as peer mentors, fostering a tiered mentorship model that encourages leadership and continuity.
J2J provides participants with access to professional, creative, and logistical resources that support both growth and program success. Participants will have access to:
Professional rehearsal studios and a 120-seat state-of-the-art theater at L10 Arts & Cultural Center
Guidance and feedback from experienced theater and writing mentors
All necessary materials and supplies provided (scripts, notebooks, production tools)
Opportunities for collaboration with peers and mentors
Documentation of final performances for portfolio use
A robust marketing campaign promoting the final production
Important Dates*
| December 8, 2025 | Application Opens |
| January 14, 2026 | Application Closes & Audition Invitations Sent |
| January 23-24, 2026 | Auditions |
| January 26, 2026 | Participant Selection & Notification |
| February 2, 2026 | Journal 2 Journey Kickoff! |
| February 2-March 16, 2026 | Writing Workshop Sessions
Weekly group workshops, plus one-on-one virtual mentoring/editing sessions. |
| March 22-March 30, 2026 | Script Reading & Assembly
Group workshops to create a cohesive stage narrative and align final writing edits with anticipated staging needs. |
| April 6-May 11, 2026 | Staging Workshops
Group Rehearsals conducted by the Theater Director and supported by the Stage Manager. |
| May 12-13, 2026 | Technical & Dress Rehearsal |
| May 14-15, 2026 | Technical & Dress Rehearsal |
*Dates are subject to change
About Journal 2 Journey
Journal 2 Journey (J2J) is a pre-professional, creative youth development program designed to expose youth to the world of devised theater with a focus on Youth Leadership Development, Tiered Mentorship, Artistic Rigor, and Social Justice.
J2J is designed to inspire young artists to imagine the possibilities of writing that expand beyond traditional forms, styles, and genres while providing a platform that celebrates their voices. Previous participants have gone on to pursue successful careers as stage actors, playwrights, and designers.
