Building for the Arts is thrilled to introduce The Studio Residency at Theatre Row, an initiative that provides nonprofit performing arts companies with resources of time, space, and professional development intended for organizational growth.
About the Studio Residency:
Four companies will be selected for the inaugural season of The Studio Residency. Nonprofit performing arts companies from all disciplines are welcome, including theater, dance, opera, puppetry, and more!
As a part of the residency, each company will receive access to studio and rehearsal space over the course of the ten month season to be used as they see fit. The goal of the residency is to provide dedicated space to emerging companies to develop new works and grow as an organization. While companies may use their space for presentations, there are no performance or project requirements for this residency.
How to Apply:
Applications for the 2027 Studio Residency are open now through October 4. Apply here.
FAQs:
Q: Who should apply?
A: We’re looking for nonprofit companies based in the NYC Metro Area with an annual budget of less than $300,000 and who have had at least two years or seasons of production history. For full eligibility guidelines, click here.
Q: Does it matter how many years my organization has been in operation?
A: Your organization must be at least two years (or seasons) old, but there is no upper limit to organizational age; however, highly competitive organizations will be between 2 -10 years old.
Q: Can individual artists apply for the Studio Residency?
A: No, The Studio Residency is designed for arts organizations not individual artists. Please only apply if your organization meets the listed qualifications.
Q: How long does the residency last?
A: Each season will last ten months, from February to November, and selected companies will be able to renew their residency for one additional year, if interested. New companies will be selected to join the residency at the beginning of each season if there is an open slot available.
Q: Are there performance requirements for The Studio Residency?
A: There are no performance or project requirements for The Studio Residency! Companies are welcome to use the space as they see fit.
Q: In what ways might a selected company use the residency space?
A: Companies may use the studio space in a variety of ways for their organizational growth: program development, workshops, rehearsals, readings, co-working space, staff retreats, board meetings, small convenings, etc.
Q: Can the residency spaces be used as housing?
A: No, the Studio Residency does not include any form of housing. Our spaces must be used for production or organization-related activities only.
Q: What performance opportunities are available through this residency?
A: Companies may schedule private workshops, readings, or presentations in the Studio Theatre. For public presentations, companies will have the opportunity to rent one of Theatre Row’s 99-seat theatres at 85% off the usual daily rate.
Q: Where is Theatre Row located?
A: Theatre Row is located in the heart of Hell’s Kitchen at 410 W 42nd St, NYC. Theatre Row Rehearsal Studios are located at 411 W 41st St.
Q: What if I have other questions?
A: You can find a detailed explanation of the Studio Residency here. If you have additional questions, please send an email to residency@bfany.org and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can. We’ll also be hosting an Open House at Theatre Row on September 14 from 3-6 pm, where interested companies can ask questions and receive a tour of our facilities.
