I heard some of ya’ll don’t have plans for the summer. The Theater Lab is now accepting applications for its Summer Teen Training Institute. So if you want to learn more about acting, then keep reading!​

The Theater Lab is a leading institution in Washington, D.C. that is dedicated to providing accessible theater training to people of all ages and backgrounds. Their Summer Training Institute has provided award-winning summer youth and teen programs to the Washington Community.​

The Summer Training Institute provides Musical Theater, Summer Acting, and Performance Intensive programs. So this means whether you want to sing in the theater or learn the basic skills of acting, this program is for you. 

Applications are open now and are due March 1, 2026. You must submit a complete application with an audition tape, meaning recording a video of yourself performing a 1 to 2 minute monologue of your choice. Also, this program is not free, but no worries, the Theater Lab offers need-based scholarship along with financial aid, which will be part of your application.​

If acting is your dream, don’t hesitate to make it your career. The Theater Lab takes teens seriously in this field. You’ll not only be surrounded by unlimited support from your teachers but also like-minded aspiring actors who want to succeed like you.

Each summer, Sitar’s Emerging Arts Leaders Program employs a limited number of students ages 14-24 who are paid through one of two local government programs. This year's S.E.A.L Summer Internship program will run from June 22 – July 31, 2026. Apply now.

Do you dream of being on the big screen one day? If so, you’ve probably heard of the Washington Improv Theater Workshops. If not, no worries.

Washington Improv Theater is a non-profit organization that aims to unleash the creative spirit in all aspiring actors. So, in other words, if you have a sudden interest in acting, then these workshops are for you. Washington Improv Theater is seeking dedicated individuals 13-19 with a strong interest in Improv.​

Improv is a live performance where actors create scenes, dialogue, and characters spontaneously. So, basically, you don't have to memorize any lines; you come ready to act with your peers without any preparation beforehand.​

If you’re thinking I have no experience, this is my first time, or I don’t know what to say—no worries. Washington Improv Theater doesn't require prior experience for Improv classes; they simply want individuals open to learning.​ And if you desire to perform in front of a live audience, Washington Improv Theater provides that as well. 

Registration for workshops opens one month before the workshops begin. Also, this program is completely free. Do not hesitate to register and try something new; all of the actors we see now did it once. Workshops are held in libraries across DC so there is likely to be one near you. These classes not only provide versatile skills for acting but also help you get out of your comfort zone.

Are you an aspiring creative who wants to work in Film? If you are, then you should’ve heard of the C-SPAN StudentCam Documentary Competition? If you haven’t, no worries. C-SPAN is looking for kids in grades 6th-12th to create a 5 to 6-minute documentary about exploring the American story through the Declaration of Independence (DOI).​

So really, they want to know how you see America’s history and how the DOI has influenced America’s behavior. If you find yourself loving history, wanting to make America a better place, or if you’re curious about America’s history, then this competition is for you.

C-SPAN requires you to include a few of their clips in your documentary, which means you need to do research on the C-SPAN website and see if any clips have matched your topic. Also you’ll need to credit your sources and present a strong argument. Also, I forgot to mention but the first place winner gets a cash prize of $3,000. ​

C-SPAN values the use of journalistic skills, critical thinking, and the exploration of diverse viewpoints. Essentially, they want to check out your ability to articulate your opinion effectively.

​If you aren’t sure whether or not your idea is strong enough or second-guessing yourself, don't worry, just breathe. C-SPAN wants to know who you are and how you view the world. Don’t wait for the “perfect” opportunity; create now.

The deadline for the C-SPAN documentary is January 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. The story isn’t told until you pick up a camera and tell it.

DCEFF invites students looking for internship credits and service learning opportunities to reach out about working with the Festival during the 2025-26 academic year.