A free intensive study with master classes | June 15 to 26, 2026
Designed as a two-week intensive study in truly becoming a working artist, participating high school and early college students are enrolled in masterclasses:
- Vocal
- Acting
- Dance
- Music performance
They also learn critical industry support curriculums:
- Arts administration
- Marketing
- Professional development
In this program, students (ages 15 to 21) are taught resilience, perseverance, mastery of fears, and poise through the exchange of critical and constructive feedback readying them for a life in the performing arts.
The Arts Immersion graduate experience concludes with a live showcase performance of a full-length sketch comedy and music production alongside the professionally trained SBX meta-performing artists.
Successful completion of the Arts Immersion Program earns participants consideration for access to Shadowbox Live’s Educational Residency, an opportunity to join the cast of one or more Shadowbox Live productions.
Requirements
Students will be required to fill out an application and will audition in all four disciplines in order to be considered for the program.
Application deadline is Monday, April 27, 2026.
Audition Prep
Initial auditions will be taken through video submission due Monday, May 4, 2026
Callback auditions will be Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Shadowbox Live, 503 S. Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215.
Audition materials will be made available once the application is received.
Schedule
The Arts Immersion Program 2026 runs Monday, June 15 to Friday, June 26, 2026. Classes and Workshops are held Mondays – Fridays, starting at 10am.
The final day of the program is an all-day commitment, in order to rehearse and prepare for the public showcase performance that evening (Friday, June 26, 7p).
Students accepted into the Arts Immersion Program MUST commit to the full schedule of classes and workshops.
Tuition and Scholarships
The Akins Fund
The Arts Immersion Program tuition and fees are graciously covered by The Akins Fund, an arts education scholarship program sponsored by the American Electric Power Foundation. The Akins Fund was established to honor the contributions of Nick Akins—musician, community advocate, and Executive Chairman of AEP—to the performing arts in Greater Columbus.
The SBX Page Program
Recipients of The Akins Fund are also enrolled in The SBX Page Program, an opportunity for students to help produce the Shadowbox Live experience as house ushers, server assistants, and behind-the-scenes support. SBX Pages typically complete these required service hours during the holiday season.
For more information on how you can play a role in The Shadowbox Academy’s fundraising efforts, contact us here.