# Arena Stage Voices of Now

Arena Stage's devised-theater program in Washington, DC: students in grades 6-12 meet weekly for 12 weeks to write and perform an original autobiographical play at the Voices of Now Festival. No experience required.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Arena Stage |
| Category | arts |
| Cost | Not listed |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 6–12 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | Washington, DC |
| Apply | https://www.arenastage.org/education/voicesofnow/mead-ensemble/ |

## About this program

# Arena Stage Voices of Now

Voices of Now (VON) is Arena Stage's internationally recognized devised theater program, in which ensembles of young artists work alongside theater professionals to create original plays that pose significant social questions relevant to their communities. The Mead Ensemble meets, rehearses, and performs at Arena Stage's Mead Center for American Theater in Southwest Washington, DC, and the season culminates in the annual Voices of Now Festival on Arena's stages.

## What You'll Do

- Meet weekly over 12 weeks (February-April) to learn the Voices of Now devising techniques and process
- Write collaboratively with your ensemble, turning lived experiences into an original autobiographical theater piece
- Rehearse with Arena Stage teaching artists at a major American regional theater
- Perform your ensemble's premiere at the Voices of Now Festival, followed by post-show talkbacks

## Who Should Apply

Students in grades 6-12 in the DC region who want to write, perform, and share stories that shape their lives. No prior performance experience is required - just a passion for storytelling and a commitment to creative expression. Registration for the 2026 Mead Ensemble closed February 1, 2026; registration for the next season is expected to open in the fall through Arena Stage's education office.

## Outcomes

Participants premiere an original play on a professional stage, gain training in devising and ensemble playmaking from Arena Stage artists, and join a program whose ensembles have performed internationally. For students interested in playwriting, devising, or socially engaged art, VON is one of the strongest theater credits available in the capital region.

## Frequently asked questions

### Who is eligible for Arena Stage Voices of Now?

Arena Stage Voices of Now is open to students in grades 6–12 (middle and high school). Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Arena Stage Voices of Now online or in person?

Arena Stage Voices of Now is an in-person program based in Washington, DC.

### How do I apply to Arena Stage Voices of Now?

Apply directly through Arena Stage's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-28.
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