JJ Dolor at the NIDA Musical Theatre 101 workshop.
Talent knows no boundaries.But in Australia, it’s still the case that finance, geographical location andschoolcanprevent a young person from experiencing the empowerment and joythat creativity can bring.
The National Institute of Dramatic Art’s Open program isoffering over $50,000 worth of complimentary tuition in 2021 to help young people and adult emerging artists who are experiencing financial or other disadvantage to achieve their full creative potential.
Julian JoshuaDolor, or JJ as he likes to be known, was just 13 when he joined the NIDA Open Musical Theatre 101 program in Chatswood, Sydney.
It was JJ’s first ever workshop, despite being chosen as one of the YoungSimbasinThe Lion King International Tour back in 2018. Looking back on that moment,JJ said he ‘noticed a change on my outlook in that I saw the potential of a career in the performing arts, but only if I worked hard. It inspired me even more to keep on working for my dreams and aspirations.’
‘Often it takes just one open door to unleash the passion and empower the imagination of a young or emerging artist. Providing equity of access to our short course program is a large part of the journey to ensuring everyone can explore their creative side through a NIDA program,’ said NIDA’s Director of Public Programs, Tricia Ryan.
JJ says he learnt a ‘deeper understanding of the challenges every musical actor has to go through. And that those challenges, result in unique and beautiful theatre experiences, both for the performer and the audience.’
When PaygeKarovolos-Dymott, from regional Queensland High School GinGin, took advantage of the opportunity in 2019totake part in NIDA Drama School classes through the NIDA Open Equity Scholarshipprogram it had a huge impact on her life as a creative young person.
The impact wasfelt across her school as drama and English teacher, LouiseMayocci, explains. ‘As a regional school, we rarely have opportunities to experience the arts or collaborate with students outside of our area. The NIDA Open Equity Scholarship helped give Payge confidence and skills to grow her acting abilities. She was able to bring that experiences and the activities she did back to the classroom, so we all could benefit.’
‘NIDAdeliversworld-classexploratory, creatively challenging and inspiringperforming artstraining,’said NIDA’s Tricia Ryan.’We’re committed tosupportingthe rich diversity of aspiring creative talentacross theAustralianculturallandscape.This is whyNIDA isproud to once again offer theEquity Scholarshipsforour online and face to faceshort coursesin 2021.
‘We’re looking to ignite the creativity of youngand emergingartistsin Sydney, Melbourne,Brisbane,Adelaideand across the country through our online programsby offeringcomplimentarytuition onany NIDA Open short coursethroughout 2021.’
LouiseMayocchisums it up. ‘My advice for anyone considering taking part, is to pour your heart into this experience and take every opportunity with both hands. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there with students from across the state, as you’ll gain a new perspective which will be invaluable.’
Application closing date: There are four application deadlines each year: Round 1: Apply by Monday 15 March for Term 2 and Winter Holidays 2021.
All details, deadlines and requirements here.
