TEEN AMBASSADORS

The Z’s Teen Ambassador Program facilitates learning in the arts through exposure, collaboration, creativity and engagement in the arts. The program provides unique artistic opportunities as well as work readiness training for those interested in pursuing a career in the arts, or an arts related field.

The Teen Ambassador program is a free program for students 13-19 years of age who demonstrate an interest in the performing arts, community engagement and have an aptitude for writing. Through the Teen Ambassador Program, students will be able to:

• Attend 6-8 world-class performances by an array of artists in genres they may not be exposed to otherwise

• Participate in master classes and workshops

• Author original reviews of performances and have their work published to The Z’s website

• Gain exposure to behind-the-scenes operations at a nonprofit arts organization by working closely with the organization

• Accumulate community service hours

• Participate in arts events throughout the community

• Collaborate with peers also interested in the arts

• Write, produce, and act in their own public service announcement on why the arts matter

PERFORMANCES

Throughout the months of November to June, students are invited to at least 6 different performances from internationally renowned artists, free of charge. Performances take place at night or on the weekends.

PRESHOW MEETINGS

Ambassadors meet one hour prior to each of the performances to discuss concepts and themes, take part in ancillary activities and prepare themselves with the knowledge needed to provide a comprehensive arts experience.

REVIEWS

Participants author original reviews for each of the performances they attend. The reviews are then published in the form on blogs, which live on The Z’s website. Students with a strong interest in writing about the arts are encouraged to apply.

VOLUNTEER HOURS

Ambassadors will complete a total of at least 15 volunteer hours at The Zeiterion and throughout the community during their time with the program.

WORKSHOPS/CLASSES

The program offers a number of workshops that will incorporate a variety of performing arts related skills and topics. Workshops take place after-school or on the weekend. Teen Ambassadors participate in these workshops at no cost.

ATTENDANCE

Attendance is mandatory at all meetings, shows, workshops and volunteer events. Students are permitted two excused absences throughout the year only with written documentation from a parent or guardian. Further absence may be cause for dismissal from the program.

FINAL PROJECT

Participating students will complete a final project in which they work with the Zeiterion education department, as well as teaching artists, to write and produce an original Public Service Announcement about the importance of the performing arts in New Bedford and beyond.

TO APPLY

Apply by submitting the below application. Deadline for Fall 2023 submissions to be decided - stay tuned!

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New! Intergenerational Mentorship Program

In partnership with the Association for the Relief of Aged Women (ARAW), The Z is pleased to offer teens an exceptional volunteer opportunity for intergenerational engagement. Students will be paired with an adult over 65 years of age to see live shows, participate in Creative Classrooms, and interview one another on why the performing arts are important across the life span. Applications will be available soon.