Representation in the performing arts is critical. However, far too many aspiring comedians, actors, directors, and producers are discouraged from this pursuit because they do not see their faces, bodies, and experiences reflected on the stage or screen. Philly Improv Theater recognizes this as a problem, and is committed to increasing representation and opportunity in comedy among and for historically marginalized identities. These identities include:
- people of color
- people over 40 years of age
- people in the LGBTQIA community
- women, people who are gender non-conforming, and people who identify outside the gender binary
- people with physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities
- people who are active duty military service members or military veterans.
Towards this end, PHIT offers Diversity Scholarships, which allow recipients to take free classes at our training center. Since 2016, PHIT has awarded $50,000 in scholarships each year, allowing hundreds of students who might not otherwise be able to do so to learn at the PHIT Training Center.
In addition to scholarships, PHIT’s Diversity Program also offers practice groups specifically for students from historically marginalized identities, opportunities to meet and discuss diversity at the theater, and a chance for greater involvement in our diversity work by joining the informal diversity committee.
For more information, read on, follow the links below, and/or contact PHIT’s Diversity Coordinator, Benjamin Kuss, at bkuss@phillyimprovtheater.com
