Professional Development

UP NEXT

Up Next Symposia & Showcase

A daylong series of panel discussions and interactive workshops held annually in New York and Los Angeles that provide vital professional insight applicable for all ten disciplines. In addition to professional guidance, this program offers alumni the opportunity to meet with local artistic professionals and connect with fellow alumni in their community. Each symposium is followed by an alumni artist showcase and reception. Within the Up Next programs for professional development, smaller workshops and discussions are also held for YoungArts resident advisors in Miami, New York and Los Angeles.

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Up Next Focus
Up Next Focus is a series of intimate, discipline-specific industry events designed for YoungArts alumni to intersect with industry professionals who can advise and advance careers in their fields. Beginning with four disciplines in the 2019–2020 season, three more will be added in 2020–2021, and all ten disciplines will be served by the 2021–2022 season. These three-hour sessions allow for five local professionals to meet with 10–20 YoungArts alumni, provide on-the-spot feedback and make valuable connections. 

This season will feature:
  • Writing – November 2019 (NYC)
  • Jazz – January 2020 (NYC) 
  • Film – March 2020 (LA)
  • Theater – April 2020 (NYC)
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Sundance Ignite

January–February

Each year, YoungArts invites five alumni filmmakers under the age of 25 to attend the Sundance Film Festival and participate in the Sundance Ignite program of activities during the second weekend of the festival. Alumni attend panels and workshops with other young filmmakers, meet with established film industry professionals and view films debuting at the prestigious festival.

Applications and open calls for these opportunities and positions can be found on YoungArts Post. If you have any questions about alumni opportunities, please email our Alumni Community Manager Kelley Kessell at [email protected].