Free Program Develops Original Works By Next-Gen Park Slope Artists

BROOKLYN, NY — The next generation of Brooklyn comedians, dancers, actors, and performance artists have a chance to develop and perform an original work alongside seasoned art professionals at the Brooklyn Arts Exchange for free — yes, really — this January as part of the annual YouthWorks program.

Now in its 30th year, the YouthWorks program will take place on Sunday afternoons from January to February, where artists ages 8-18 will rehearse, gain performance skills, and develop their original works before performing a final project on Feb. 9.

Much like Brooklyn Art Exchange's professional artist residencies, YouthWorks will allow young artists to develop their artistic voices and receive professional mentorship.

Students will also attend workshops to learn more about professional careers in the arts and how to turn an idea into a performance.

Past YouthWorks final projects have included a stand-up comedy routine about being a teenager, a modern dance solo about identity and creativity, performance art about climate change, a multi-media performance inspired by the world of superheroes, an interactive play about how to be an upstander when conflicts happen at school, and so much more.

This year's YouthWorks will be directed by Kelindah Bee Schuster and Ashley Thaxton-Stevenson.

The info session for coaches, young artists and parents is on Dec. 8. Learn more here.

For questions and tips, email Miranda.Levingston@Patch.com.