A New School Year Brings New Opportunities with the Collaborative School of the Arts

The 2026-27 school year is underway, and the Collaborative School of the Arts is already helping students across the Capital Region discover their creativity, strengthen their skills, and experience the performing arts in new ways.

From hands-on theatrical training to live performances and immersive learning experiences, the education team at Proctors Collaborative has been busy connecting young people with opportunities that extend far beyond the traditional classroom.

One of the programs kicking off the fall season is the Collaborative Academy for Theatrical Training, which gives aspiring performers the opportunity to work directly with experienced theatre professionals. The Senior Academy, designed for students ages 14-20, began in September and continues through December at Proctors. Through classes in acting, singing, and dance, students are developing their performance skills, building confidence, and preparing for future auditions and opportunities in the arts.

The program emphasizes more than just what happens on stage. Students also gain valuable insight into the entertainment industry while learning from professionals who have built careers in theatre. The Junior Academy, for ages 10-13, will continue that mission when its next session begins in January.

Meanwhile, the student matinee program is helping bring the magic of live theatre into the school day. Through performances at Proctors in Schenectady, Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany, and Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs, students have opportunities to experience professional productions that connect directly to what they are learning in their classrooms.

These performances offer more than a field trip. With educational resources designed to support classroom curriculum, student matinees introduce young audiences to storytelling, history, literature, and the performing arts in ways that encourage curiosity and conversation. For some students, these experiences may be their first introduction to live theatre, opening the door to a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

The Musical Theatre Academy at Proctors is also providing a unique educational experience for high school students interested in pursuing the performing arts. A collaboration between the Schenectady City School District and Proctors Collaborative, the half-day academic program allows students to earn high school credit while receiving pre-professional training in a working theatre.

At the Adeline Graham Theatrical Training and Innovation Center at Proctors, known as The Addy, students are immersed in music, dance, theatre, and media. Along with developing their artistic abilities, they are learning the importance of collaboration, exploring career pathways, and gaining practical experience that can help prepare them for their futures.

Together, these programs reflect the Collaborative School of the Arts’ commitment to making arts education accessible, meaningful, and inspiring for students at every stage of their development. And while the school year is only beginning, the work happening in classrooms, rehearsal spaces, and theatres across Proctors Collaborative is already laying the foundation for another year of creativity, discovery, and growth.

To learn more about educational opportunities, visit collaborativeschoolofthearts.org.