The Bushnell Announces Auditions for Performing Arts Scholars Program

Press release

THE BUSHNELL'S NEW
PERFORMING ARTS SCHOLARS
Created for students ages 7 through 14
is a perfect activity for your rising star!

The program begins in early fall culminating with a
live performance of the hilarious and imaginative musical
MATILDA, Jr.
March 2026

REGISTRATION FOR AUDITIONS OPENS JUNE 1
- space is limited -

MARCH 3, 2025 / Hartford, CT – The Bushnell is pleased to share the news of The Bushnell Performing Arts Scholars, a new addition to the arts education program offerings beginning Fall of 2025! Youth between the ages of 7 to 14 years will have the opportunity to audition for this theatrical learning experience that will incorporate instruction and guidance in all primary aspects of performance fundamentals, including character development, creative expression, and stage presence. Be they an experienced young actor, or a complete novice, these young scholars will thrive in our impactful and comprehensive program that will allow them to explore the range of their imaginations and artistic intuition.

The skills that will be attained by way of active engagement in masterclasses, creative workshops, and semi-independent instruction led by industry professionals and our acclaimed teaching artists, will support the development of self-confidence, critical and divergent thinking, effective self-expression, and the art of collaboration. This five-month program will culminate in the live theatrical production of Matilda, Jr. at The Bushnell! Performances will take place on Saturday and Sunday, March 28 and March 29, 2026.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of a funny, bright, and imaginative production. Online Audition Registration opens June 1, so set a reminder to sign your star up and get ready to shine! Program registration is required for all students who are cast.

Program participation is limited and can be attained only by way of audition assessment and subsequent invitation/placement.

Learn more about the numerous Education programs at bushnell.org,

The following guidelines will apply to all program candidates and participants:

• Applications for audition appointments are required by all. Online submissions begin on Sunday, June 1, 2025, and a $10, non-refundable application fee will be applied.

• Audition appointments will be confirmed via email only prior to Monday, June 9, 2025.

• Optional audition prep classes will be offered in July and August 2025. Class fees are $100/session.

• Auditions will take place by appointment only on Sunday, September 7; Monday, September 8; Tuesday, September 9; and Wednesday, September 10, 2025.

• Cast lists will be distributed electronically prior to September 12, 2025.

• Program tuition is $600 for the full course, October 2025 - March 2026. A $150 participation fee deposit is required on or before September 30, 2025. (Remaining payment due dates are November 30, 2025, January 30, 2026 and March 1, 2026 - $150 each.)

• Masterclasses and Instructional Workshops will take place on Thursdays from 5:30-7:30 PM [10/9/25, 10/16/25, 10/23/25, 10/30/25, and 11/20/25.]

• Rehearsals will take place on Tuesdays & Wednesdays from 5:30-7:30 PM and Sundays from 11:30-2:30 PM starting 1/6/26 through 3/2/26.

• All tech week rehearsals are mandatory and will take place Tuesday, March 24, through Friday, March 17, 2026 from 5:30-8 PM.

• Performances will take place on Saturday and Sunday, March 28, and March 29, 2026 at the Bushnell.