The Kaleidoscope Dreams Fellowship connects early-career professionals to paid Broadway-level work experiences in order to help emerging artists from underrepresented communities develop sustainable careers in the arts.
Applications are currently closed. Stay tuned for info on our next Fellowship cohort.
Kaleidoscope Dreams Foundation (KDF) believes that sustainable careers in the arts are built on equitable professional development opportunities. The Kaleidoscope Dreams Fellowship connects early-career professionals to paid Broadway-level work experiences in order to help emerging artists from underrepresented communities develop sustainable careers in the arts.
For the 2026 KDF Fellowship, we are building a cohort of five (5) emerging New York-based theater artists who are committed to developing and applying their craft in service of something larger than themselves.
In partnership with the upcoming Broadway musical WANTED, each fellow will be placed in a specific track in the production where they will develop their skills while working under the guidance of their mentors. Simultaneously, fellows will participate in a KDF-designed curriculum that deepens their understanding of what it means to be a socially engaged artist. In partnership with a network of organizations, KDF provides fellows with mentorship, training, resources, and hands-on experience as they build careers that are both professionally sustainable and socially rooted.
The following tracks are available:
Application Closes: July 31, 2026
Fellows Notified: August 14, 2026
WANTED Fellowship Dates: September 1 – November 10, 2026
Fellows are expected to be available for the full duration of the Fellowship. All Fellows will receive compensation of $1300/week during the 10-week Fellowship period.
A complete application includes:
You may also include:
If you need accessibility accommodations or have any questions regarding the application, please reach out to info@kd-foundation.org.
The deadline to submit an application is Friday, July 31, 2026.
Compensation
All Fellows will be compensated at a weekly rate of $1300 while working on assigned productions during the Fellowship period.
Professional Mentorship & Work Experience
Each Fellow will work on a professional production, engaging in hands-on work alongside professionals within their respective artistic disciplines. Through this, they will have the opportunity to sharpen their skills and familiarize themselves with the ecosystem of commercial Broadway productions. Fellows will be paired with a mentor in their particular role who will guide their work and delegate tasks and responsibilities during the fellowship period. Mentors will be asked to provide additional learning opportunities and guidance as they see fit.
Fellow Orientation
Before the first week of rehearsal, KDF will convene all Fellows for an orientation. Fellows will meet with KDF staff, build rapport with their cohort, and be introduced to the resources, network, and connections available through KDF.
Weekly Fellowship Meetings
Each week, Fellows will engage in sessions designed and facilitated by KDF staff and guest speakers. These sessions will enhance industry knowledge, expand professional networks, and support long-term career sustainability. Time will also be built in for cohort check-ins and peer connection.
Ongoing Staff Support
KDF’s Program Director will maintain regular check-ins with each Fellow throughout the program to ensure ongoing support, clear communication, and timely resolution of any concerns.
Partnership Network
KDF will connect Fellows to organizations within our network for ongoing resources and support during and beyond the Fellowship. Network partners include Harriet Tubman Effect, RISE Theatre, and the How to Stand Out Network. Each Fellow will also have access to career coaching to assist with identifying next steps post-fellowship.
Virtual Workshops
Fellows and KDF alumni are invited to ongoing virtual workshops featuring guest speakers and industry leaders. These provide additional professional development resources and community beyond the fellowship itself.
This program seeks to connect emerging theatre professionals from diverse backgrounds to resources and experiences that can support a sustained career in the arts.
The KDF Fellowship Program is designed to:
Fellows will gain:
Kaleidoscope Dreams Foundation is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status.
