ARE YOUR HIGH-SCHOOLER READY TO FLIP THE SCRIPT?
The Youth Theatre Conservatory is your chance to join an elite cohort of creative minds ready to redefine what theatre and storytelling can be. Guided by a team of experts in acting, writing, directing, and production design, and following a groundbreaking story development approach by Academy Award Nominated Filmmaker Carlos Lopez Estrada, whose powerful devising methodology draws from his experience at Walt Disney Animation and Pixar, you’ll develop and perform your own original work in a space that celebrates bold ideas, fearless storytelling, and limitless imagination.
This isn’t just a theatre program. It’s a high-performing space created for and by you.
WHY JOIN?
- Unleash your creativity: Master acting, writing, directing, and production design skills while discovering the power of your unique voice.
- Learn from the best: Receive mentorship from professionally trained actors, directors, and writers, including direct insight into Carlos Lopez Estrada’s innovative creative process.
- Collaborate and create: Work with other creative high schoolers to devise and produce original work for the stage.
- Expand your horizons: Attend live theatrical events and experience the magic of live performance from behind the scenes.
- Build your future: Develop confidence, craft an artistic portfolio, and create work that sets you apart for college or a career.
THE 4-YEAR JOURNEY
Build your foundation. Discover your voice. Start with the essentials of playwriting and acting. Learn to write scripts, develop characters, and bring stories to life while gaining access to exclusive master classes by top professionals in theatre, film, and storytelling. These industry leaders will guide you through writing, acting, directing, production design, and applied technology. You’ll gain insider knowledge that most artists can only dream of.
Fall Session: Explore the development process of writing and acting.
Spring Session: Undertake the revision process of writing and acting. Take the stage to perform your story in front of a live audience.
Become the expert. Shape your future.
Chose your track (Acting, Playwriting, Directing, or Production Design & Applied Technology) and master the skills needed to transform your passion into a career or prepare for university. Create a standout artistic portfolio that highlights your originality and dedication, positioning you for success in the arts and beyond.
FOR ADMINISTRATORS & TEACHERS
JOIN THE CONSERVATORY AT BOSTON COURT PASADENA
Deadline to Apply: July 11, 2025
Do you want to be part of something extraordinary? Out of all the high school students in the greater Pasadena and San Gabriel Valley region, only 20 positions are available for the inaugural 2025/2026 class of the Youth Theatre Conservatory at Boston Court Pasadena. Be a trailblazer and set the stage for others to follow.
PROGRAM DETAILS
- Dates: September 16, 2025 – April 2026
- Fall (9/16/25 – 12/16/25): Playwriting fundamentals and devising original stories
- Spring (February – April 2026): Acting fundamentals and performing for a live audience
- Schedule: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:30PM – 6:30PM (must attend both days)
- Location: Boston Court Pasadena (70 North Mentor Ave, Pasadena, CA 91106). Free parking is available, and the space is a 4-minute walk from the Lake Avenue Metro stop.
- Cost: $0. Full scholarships are offered to all 20 selected students, sponsored by the Unusual Suspects’ partners and supporters.
- Eligibility: Open to 9th and 10th grade students (public, private, charter, and homeschool). No prior experience is required. Just bring your imagination and willingness to collaborate.
HOW TO APPLY
- Applications open on Thursday, May 15, 2025 and close on July 11, 2025 at 11:59PM PT.
- Selected applicants will participate in a Zoom interview as part of the selection process.
- Final decisions will be announced on August 1, 2025.
SIGN UP FOR AN INFO SESSION
Curious to learn more? Join us for one of our info sessions:
JOIN THE CONSERVATORY AT YOUR SCHOOL
If you’re a student at Dr. Maya Angelou Community High School, John C. Fremont High School, Legacy Senior Visual and Performing Arts, or Arleta High School, the Unusual Suspects is bringing the Conservatory right to your campus!
- Dates: September 2025 – April 2026.
- Fall Session: Playwriting fundamentals and devising original stories.
- Spring Session: Acting fundamentals and performing for a live audience.
- Schedule: Meets twice a week after school.
- Cost: $0. Full scholarships are offered to all 20 selected students, sponsored by your school and the Unusual Suspects Theatre Company.
- Spots Available: 20 students per school, first come, first serve (via signup form).