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Best Grants for Theater

Explore theater grants supporting productions, youth programs, education, and cultural preservation.

269

Available grants

$3.1M

Total funding

$5.1K

Median grant

269 grants
$3.1M total
$5.1K median

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269 Results based on applied filters

Eugene "Babe" Fabrizi Fund to Educate Music Students

Pittsburgh Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $3,000

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Eugene "Babe" Fabrizi Fund to Educate Music Students

The Eugene “Babe” Fabrizi Fund to Educate Music Students of The Pittsburgh Foundation was created to support young or adult musicians.

Award Type: Single Year. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply in consecutive years.

Education - Higher Education Music Theater

Craig Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Columbus Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Craig Memorial Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was established by the family of John E. Craig, Jr. and Larry William Craig. Both John and Larry were extremely gifted musicians. John was a noted musician in the central Ohio community, studying at the Berklee College of Music in Boston at the time of his death. A well-known musician and businessman, Larry excelled at playing the piano and worked with his father in Craig & Sons Wrecking Company. This scholarship fund will provide support to students who are pursuing careers in musical arts, theatre or drama.

Education - Higher Education Music Performing Arts +1 more

MAC Annual Grants: Organizations of Color

Missouri Arts Council
State/Local Government
Missouri
Up to US $40,000

Missouri Arts Council

The Missouri Arts Council supports the arts that strengthen the cultural, educational, and economic vitality of our state.

Established as a state agency in 1965, the Missouri Arts Council is a division of the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. The Council is funded through the Missouri General Assembly, Missouri Cultural Trust, and National Endowment for the Arts.

The Missouri Arts Council is the state agency dedicated—as public leader, partner, and catalyst—to broadening the growth, availability, and appreciation of the arts in Missouri and fostering the diversity, vitality, and excellence of Missouri’s communities, economy, and cultural heritage. The grants we award make possible quality arts programming to communities both large and small throughout the state. We provide grants to arts projects that meet our strategic goals:

  • Engage people in meaningful arts experiences
  • Grow Missouri’s economy using the arts
  • Strengthen Missouri education through the arts

In addition to funding, we provide technical assistance in community development, fundraising, marketing, grant writing, arts education, artistic disciplines (visual arts, music, literature, theater, dance, festivals, and film/media) and more.

Annual Grants

Annual Grants are designed for experienced Missouri Arts Council applicants with large budget arts projects. The annual application is extensive and more demanding with a rigid deadline schedule, a more competitive review process, and a longer turnaround. While the request amount is higher, organizations receive a smaller percentage of their request based on our funding. 

Annual Grants: Organizations of Color

Organizations must meet the following criteria:

  • Organizations where a majority of the board and staff (combined) are American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander (as reflected in the Demographic section of the application).
  • The mission of the organization has historically served people of color. Supports arts projects created by and/or targeted to African-American, Asian-American, Latino/Hispanic, and Native American communities. 
Performing Arts Theater Dance +7 more

The Penn Play Award

LR Penn
Corporate
United States
Unspecified amount

LRPenn.com is home to the novels, plays, and screenplays of LR Penn. His books specializes in Thrillers, Dramatic Comedies, and Film Noir. Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, grants may be available to nonprofit theater companies in the United States with 501(c)(3) status that are staging productions of plays written by LR Penn.  

Theater

EdTA Thespian Growth & Excellence Grants: Equipment Upgrade

Educational Theatre Foundation (EdTA)
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $5,000

Building a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre

Our Mission and Goals

The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF) is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. ETF’s programs aim to support students, educators and the field at large by realizing three strategic goals:

  • Subsidizing new, emerging, and underserved student theatre programs;
  • Creating paths for theatre educators to develop new skills; and
  • Commissioning research to showcase the value of a theatre education.

Educator & Program Grants

Giving school theatre programs a boost

The Thespian Growth & Excellence Fund is committed to supporting the ongoing development of theatre programs and the pursuit of excellence for educators, students, schools, and communities by offering a number of grants that assist in EdTA membership, teacher support, and programmatic resources for theatre in schools.

By the end of 2024, the Thespian Growth and Excellence Fund has awarded 349 grants to 276 schools, totaling $286,167 in assistance provided to school theatre programs, many at schools with Title 1 designations.

Equipment Upgrade (up to $5,000)

Can be awarded to help school theatre programs with large technical purchases that upgrade the resources available for theatrical use, such as lighting and sound equipment.

Theater Arts / Culture Access & Participation Youth Involvement in the Arts

EdTA Thespian Growth & Excellence Grants: Thespian Troupe Expenses

Educational Theatre Foundation (EdTA)
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $1,000
The EdTA Thespian Growth & Excellence Grants support theatre programs by providing financial assistance for troupe expenses, including travel to professional productions and participation in state conferences. Founded by the Educational Theatre Foundation, these grants aim to enhance educational theatre access and representation. By the end of 2024, 349 grants totaling over $286,000 will have been awarded, benefiting schools with Title 1 designations and empowering students and educators in their creative pursuits.
Theater Arts / Culture Access & Participation Youth Involvement in the Arts

EdTA Thespian Growth & Excellence Grants: Production Expenses

Educational Theatre Foundation (EdTA)
Association/Society
United States
US $1,000
The Educational Theatre Foundation (EdTA) offers the Thespian Growth & Excellence Grants to support production expenses for school theatre programs. Grants of up to $1,000 can cover essential costs such as licensing fees, rentals, sets, and costumes. With a commitment to enhancing educational theatre, EdTA prioritizes applications based on demonstrated need, particularly for Title 1 schools, helping to foster creativity and collaboration in diverse educational settings.
Theater Arts / Culture Access & Participation Youth Involvement in the Arts

EdTA Thespian Growth & Excellence Grants: Educator Support

Educational Theatre Foundation (EdTA)
Association/Society
United States
US $500

Building a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre

Our Mission and Goals

The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF) is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. ETF’s programs aim to support students, educators and the field at large by realizing three strategic goals:

  • Subsidizing new, emerging, and underserved student theatre programs;
  • Creating paths for theatre educators to develop new skills; and
  • Commissioning research to showcase the value of a theatre education.

Educator & Program Grants

Giving school theatre programs a boost

The Thespian Growth & Excellence Fund is committed to supporting the ongoing development of theatre programs and the pursuit of excellence for educators, students, schools, and communities by offering a number of grants that assist in EdTA membership, teacher support, and programmatic resources for theatre in schools.

By the end of 2024, the Thespian Growth and Excellence Fund has awarded 349 grants to 276 schools, totaling $286,167 in assistance provided to school theatre programs, many at schools with Title 1 designations.

Educator Support ($500)

Can be used for professional development for theatre educators that would benefit their students, including coursework, EdTA’s Theatre Education Conference registration fees, and related travel expenses.

Theater Teacher Development & Training

EdTA Membership Grant

Educational Theatre Foundation (EdTA)
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Building a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre

Our Mission and Goals

The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF) is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. ETF’s programs aim to support students, educators and the field at large by realizing three strategic goals:

  • Subsidizing new, emerging, and underserved student theatre programs;
  • Creating paths for theatre educators to develop new skills; and
  • Commissioning research to showcase the value of a theatre education.

Grants for Educators & Theatre Programs

A core piece of the Educational Theatre Foundation’s work is supporting theatre educators and theatre programs directly. We do this through a series of production and educator grants available to both members of EdTA as well as non-members.

EdTA Membership Grant

Theatre matters.

It belongs in our classrooms and communities – now more than ever. Yet the role of the theatre educator has become increasingly complex, and financial support is often uncertain or even eliminated.

To help meet this moment, the Educational Theatre Foundation is proud to introduce the EdTA Membership Grant.

Theater Teacher Development & Training

Production Grants: Shrek the Musical Jr. Pilot Grant

Educational Theatre Foundation (EdTA)
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF) is offering the Shrek the Musical Jr. Pilot Grant, providing three no-cost licenses for schools. This innovative bilingual adaptation allows actors to perform in either American English or Latin American Spanish, enhancing accessibility and engagement. The initiative promotes educational theatre by supporting high schools with active Thespian troupes across the United States. By collaborating with Music Theatre International, ETF aims to refine the script and deliver a unique theatrical experience that fosters community and creativity.
Theater Arts / Culture Access & Participation Youth Involvement in the Arts

Production Grants: Ain't Too Proud Grant

Educational Theatre Foundation (EdTA)
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Building a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre

Our Mission and Goals

The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF) is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. ETF’s programs aim to support students, educators and the field at large by realizing three strategic goals:

  • Subsidizing new, emerging, and underserved student theatre programs;
  • Creating paths for theatre educators to develop new skills; and
  • Commissioning research to showcase the value of a theatre education.

Grants for Educators & Theatre Programs

A core piece of the Educational Theatre Foundation’s work is supporting theatre educators and theatre programs directly. We do this through a series of production and educator grants available to both members of EdTA as well as non-members.

For EdTA Members

Production Grants are offered in collaboration with the rights holders for specific plays and musicals or for initiative-based productions that build community.

Production Grants

Show-specific financial assistance for educational theatre programs

Ain't Too Proud Grant

ETF, in partnership with Music Theatre International, is offering three no-cost licenses for Ain’t Too Proud for 2027. This electrifying jukebox musical follows the rise of The Temptations from Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, featuring beloved hits like “My Girl” and “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” with a Tony-nominated book by Dominique Morisseau. It’s an exciting opportunity for high school theatre programs seeking a dynamic production with strong vocals, choreography, and storytelling.

Theater Arts / Culture Access & Participation Youth Involvement in the Arts

Production Grants: Fiddler on the Roof Grant

Educational Theatre Foundation (EdTA)
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $2,500

Building a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre

Our Mission and Goals

The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF) is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. ETF’s programs aim to support students, educators and the field at large by realizing three strategic goals:

  • Subsidizing new, emerging, and underserved student theatre programs;
  • Creating paths for theatre educators to develop new skills; and
  • Commissioning research to showcase the value of a theatre education.

Grants for Educators & Theatre Programs

A core piece of the Educational Theatre Foundation’s work is supporting theatre educators and theatre programs directly. We do this through a series of production and educator grants available to both members of EdTA as well as non-members.

For EdTA Members

Production Grants are offered in collaboration with the rights holders for specific plays and musicals or for initiative-based productions that build community.

Production Grants

Show-specific financial assistance for educational theatre programs

Fiddler on the Roof Grant

The Fiddler on the Roof Grant covers performance royalties and support resources for middle or high school Thespian troupes to perform Fiddler on the Roof or Fiddler on the Roof JR. through Music Theatre International. Funders Helene and Edward Cole created the grant to help educate students and communities about Jewish heritage and culture.

Community Culture & Heritage Theater Arts / Culture Access & Participation +2 more

Production Grants: Austen's Pride - A New Musical of Pride and Prejudice Grant

Educational Theatre Foundation (EdTA)
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Building a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre

Our Mission and Goals

The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF) is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. ETF’s programs aim to support students, educators and the field at large by realizing three strategic goals:

  • Subsidizing new, emerging, and underserved student theatre programs;
  • Creating paths for theatre educators to develop new skills; and
  • Commissioning research to showcase the value of a theatre education.

Grants for Educators & Theatre Programs

A core piece of the Educational Theatre Foundation’s work is supporting theatre educators and theatre programs directly. We do this through a series of production and educator grants available to both members of EdTA as well as non-members.

For EdTA Members

Production Grants are offered in collaboration with the rights holders for specific plays and musicals or for initiative-based productions that build community.

Production Grants

Show-specific financial assistance for educational theatre programs

Austen's Pride: A New Musical of Pride and Prejudice Grant

The Authors of Austen’s Pride: A New Musical of Pride & Prejudice are thrilled to announce a collaboration with ETF to grant five (5) high schools free performance rights and materials to produce this beautiful new musical during the 2026-27 school year. Access a free digital perusal of the script.

Theater Arts / Culture Access & Participation Youth Involvement in the Arts

Production Grants: Disney on Broadway - School of Excellence Grant

Educational Theatre Foundation (EdTA)
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Building a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre

Our Mission and Goals

The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF) is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. ETF’s programs aim to support students, educators and the field at large by realizing three strategic goals:

  • Subsidizing new, emerging, and underserved student theatre programs;
  • Creating paths for theatre educators to develop new skills; and
  • Commissioning research to showcase the value of a theatre education.

Grants for Educators & Theatre Programs

A core piece of the Educational Theatre Foundation’s work is supporting theatre educators and theatre programs directly. We do this through a series of production and educator grants available to both members of EdTA as well as non-members.

For EdTA Members

Production Grants are offered in collaboration with the rights holders for specific plays and musicals or for initiative-based productions that build community.

Production Grants

Show-specific financial assistance for educational theatre programs

Disney on Broadway: School of Excellence Grant

In collaboration with the Educational Theatre Foundation and Music Theatre International, Disney Theatrical Group will award complimentary licenses of select Disney musicals to middle and high schools throughout the United States to be performed each school year.

This nationwide program celebrates schools that display both outstanding artistic achievement and student-led engagement in theatrical disciplines such as stagecraft, theatrical design, choreography, direction, or performance. Together, these schools will honor the timeless magic of Disney musicals on stage and represent the future of theatrical storytelling for the next generation.

Theater Arts / Culture Access & Participation Youth Involvement in the Arts

Production Grants: Music Theatre International - Heart of Rock and Roll "The Power of Love" Grant

Educational Theatre Foundation (EdTA)
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Building a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre

Our Mission and Goals

The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF) is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. ETF’s programs aim to support students, educators and the field at large by realizing three strategic goals:

  • Subsidizing new, emerging, and underserved student theatre programs;
  • Creating paths for theatre educators to develop new skills; and
  • Commissioning research to showcase the value of a theatre education.

Grants for Educators & Theatre Programs

A core piece of the Educational Theatre Foundation’s work is supporting theatre educators and theatre programs directly. We do this through a series of production and educator grants available to both members of EdTA as well as non-members.

For EdTA Members

Production Grants are offered in collaboration with the rights holders for specific plays and musicals or for initiative-based productions that build community.

Production Grants

Show-specific financial assistance for educational theatre programs

Music Theatre International: Heart of Rock and Roll "The Power of Love" Grant

Heart of Rock and Roll features a book by Jonathan Abrams and music and lyrics by Huey Lewis and his pop-rock band, Huey Lewis and the News, with new orchestrations of their music by Brian Usifer.

Selected schools will host intergenerational community events or outreach programs of their own design — because just as Huey Lewis’s music has always brought people together, school theatre has the power to do the same.

Community Culture & Heritage Theater Arts / Culture Access & Participation +1 more

Production Grants: The Wilder Estate - The Long Christmas Dinner Festival Grant

Educational Theatre Foundation (EdTA)
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Building a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre

Our Mission and Goals

The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF) is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. ETF’s programs aim to support students, educators and the field at large by realizing three strategic goals:

  • Subsidizing new, emerging, and underserved student theatre programs;
  • Creating paths for theatre educators to develop new skills; and
  • Commissioning research to showcase the value of a theatre education.

Grants for Educators & Theatre Programs

A core piece of the Educational Theatre Foundation’s work is supporting theatre educators and theatre programs directly. We do this through a series of production and educator grants available to both members of EdTA as well as non-members.

For EdTA Members

Production Grants are offered in collaboration with the rights holders for specific plays and musicals or for initiative-based productions that build community.

Production Grants

Show-specific financial assistance for educational theatre programs

The Wilder Estate: The Long Christmas Dinner Festival Grant

In 1931, Thornton Wilder wrote The Long Christmas Dinner, a moving, funny, and ingeniously theatrical one-act play created specifically for student theater groups. In just 40 minutes, a single holiday meal becomes a 90-year journey through four generations of a family, exploring time, tradition, family, and the stories we tell about our lives.

In 2026, the Wilder Estate is launching The Long Christmas Dinner Festival, a national holiday celebration bringing schools, cultural organizations, and audiences together around this remarkable play.

Theater Arts / Culture Access & Participation Youth Involvement in the Arts +1 more

WEF Distinguished Alumni Award

Wallingford Education Foundation (WEF)
Association/Society
New Haven County, Connecticut
Unspecified amount

Wallingford Education Foundation

Our Mission

The Wallingford Education Foundation is a non-profit, community-based partnership supporting educational innovation and excellence in our town.

Our Vision

The Wallingford Education Foundation empowers ideas and enhances educational experiences for students, educators and community members. It provides financial support outside the education budget that is aligned with the goals and focus areas of the school district’s strategic plan.

Distinguished Alumni Award

The Wallingford Education Foundation (WEF) established the Distinguished Alumni Award in 2004 to honor and showcase individuals whose deeds and character exemplify outstanding accomplishments, leadership, and/or service to their community. This award is presented annually and alumni need not have graduated from a Wallingford high school in order to be considered.

Members of the community are invited to nominate candidates for this award by completing the nomination form.

All submitted nominations are reviewed with the final selection of award recipients made by the Distinguished Alumni Committee and endorsed by the WEF Board of Directors. Only those individuals selected for the award are notified of their nomination. Nomination forms of individuals not selected will be kept on file for three (3) years for future consideration. Award recipients are honored at the Distinguished Alumni Dinner held each spring.

Art & Culture Music Writing & Literature +1 more

James Brasington Theater Scholarship

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Inc.
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Scholarships

The mission of the Marshfield Area Community Foundation is “Connecting people who care with causes that matter to enrich the quality of life in the Marshfield area”. Education is a valuable tool and a cause that matters to all of us. Through assisting students with financial support to receive an education, not only do students and the families of those students benefit, but also our community benefits, which further allows us to achieve our mission of enriching the quality of life in the Marshfield area.

Geographical Area

The official geographic service area of Marshfield Area Community Foundation, Inc., beginning to our west and traveling clockwise, includes the following communities in addition to Marshfield (It also includes towns and rural areas between these communities.): Chili, Granton, Neillsville, Loyal, Greenwood, Withee, Owen, Spencer, Unity, Colby, Curtiss, Pittsville, Abbotsford, Dorchester, Stetsonville, Medford, Stratford, Rozellville, Hewitt, Auburndale, Blenker, Milladore, Sherry, Arpin.

James Brasington Theater Scholarship

This scholarship is for a student wo is attending school full-time pursuing an undergraduate degree intending to study theater arts. Preference to a student who shows interest in and affinity for the art of acting and shows financial need. This scholarship can be renewed 3 additional years.

Education - Higher Education Theater

Kressa Jean Shepherd Memorial Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Mendocino County Inc.
Private
Mendocino County, California
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation of Mendocino County

The Community Foundation of Mendocino County is a county-wide nonprofit organization that administers permanent charitable funds established through gifts and bequests from individuals, families, businesses, and other organizations.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Mendocino County Scholarship program provides scholarship opportunities for local students to help pursue their educational goals and achieve their higher education dreams.

The Community Foundation of Mendocino County provides scholarships for all seven regions of the county, as well as for specific academic and professional goals.

Kressa Jean Shepherd Memorial Scholarship Fund

Created by Sara and John Shepherd in memory of their daughter, Kressa, to support students with a passion for the arts (visual art, design, music, theater, and dance) who may or may not choose to study art at the college level.

Education - Higher Education Dance Visual Arts +3 more

Joe Salek Scholarship for Theater Arts Trust

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Joe Salek Scholarship for Theater Arts Trust, administered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing a degree in Theatre Arts, including acting, playwriting, and design. Open to high school seniors and college students in the USA, this scholarship requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and full-time enrollment. Renewable for up to one year, it aims to empower the next generation of theater artists by providing essential financial aid for tuition, fees, and living expenses.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Theater

McGlothlin Foundation Grant

The Mcglothlin Foundation
Private
Bell County, Kentucky, Breathitt County, Kentucky +34 more
Unspecified amount
The McGlothlin Foundation Grant supports philanthropic initiatives in higher education, healthcare, and the arts, focusing primarily on projects in Southwest Virginia, Eastern Kentucky, and Northeast Tennessee. The foundation prioritizes proposals from tax-exempt non-profits, especially for capital projects and programmatic needs. While there are no fixed grant sizes, organizations are encouraged to apply after prior awards have concluded. The foundation does not fund individuals or political activities, ensuring its resources enhance community infrastructure and cultural development.
Education - Higher Education Health Care Access & Delivery Greening & Beautification +4 more

Helen Duranleau-Brennan Theater Scholarship

Quad Cities Community Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $4,000
The Helen Duranleau-Brennan Theater Scholarship, offered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, supports students pursuing theater studies. Eligible applicants must be graduates from specific Davenport high schools, maintain a 3.0 GPA, and be enrolled in a four-year program or graduate school for theater. This scholarship provides up to $1,000 annually, renewable for up to four years, encouraging students committed to theater-related disciplines and community service.
Theater Academic Scholarship Programs College Success / Persistence

Jerry and Martha Taylor Memorial Scholarship

Quad Cities Community Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $2,500
The Jerry and Martha Taylor Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, supports students from Rock Island County pursuing post-secondary education. With awards of up to $1,000, this scholarship is not renewable and is open to applicants with a minimum GPA of 2.75. Preference is given to students majoring in journalism, theater arts, or special education, or those attending accredited trade schools.
Theater Journalism Special Needs Education +2 more

BACKstage Grant Fall 2025

United Institute for Theatre Technology Inc.
Private
United States
Up to US $500
The BACKstage Grant Fall 2025, offered by the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT), provides funding for secondary education theatre teachers to enhance their professional development. Grants support various expenses, including workshop registrations, travel, and educational supplies. Eligible applicants must be secondary school educators teaching theatre-related subjects, and all funded activities must be completed within a year. This initiative fosters growth and innovation in the performing arts community.
Theater Teacher Development & Training

Sherry Wagner-Henry Board Fellowship

United Institute for Theatre Technology Inc.
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Sherry Wagner-Henry Board Fellowship, initiated by the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT), offers a unique opportunity for emerging leaders in the theatre and entertainment industry. This 12-18 month program connects Fellows with experienced board members to enhance their professional skills. Participants gain access to board resources, attend meetings, and receive support for conferences, all valued at approximately $3,000 to $3,500. Ideal for individuals with 2-5 years of experience, this Fellowship fosters growth and leadership in nonprofit governance.
Design Theater Nonprofit Growth & Development

SAA Shakespeare Publics Award

Shakespeare Association Of America
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The SAA Shakespeare Publics Award, presented by the Shakespeare Association of America, celebrates innovative efforts that engage diverse publics with Shakespeare's works. Open to SAA members, the award recognizes projects that promote teaching, scholarship, performance, and activism. Since its inception in 1972, the SAA has fostered dialogue and collaboration among scholars, enhancing the appreciation of Shakespeare's impact on culture. This award highlights the importance of broadening access to Shakespeare's legacy in today's society.
Writing & Literature Theater Arts / Culture Access & Participation

EAG's Open Stage Space Grant

The Episcopal Actors' Guild
Association/Society
New York County, New York
US $6,100
The EAG's Open Stage Space Grant, initiated by The Episcopal Actors' Guild, provides essential support to NYC's performing artists by offering $5,600 credits for theatre space bookings and $1,000 for performer stipends. Launched in 2017, this initiative addresses the pressing need for affordable performance venues, enabling emerging theatre companies to create and showcase their work. EAG, established in 1923, aids artists across all backgrounds, fostering artistic growth and community engagement through various performances and workshops.
Theater Performing Arts

Grants for Theater Highlights

Grants for theater provide funding for performances, educational programs, and community outreach. The following grants empower theaters to promote cultural expression, foster artistic talent, and engage diverse audiences.


Search Instrumentl's Theater Grants Database


Explore 61 funding opportunities for theater programs, with $1.2M in resources. Instrumentl helps theaters and nonprofits secure performance funding with deadline reminders, customized search filters, and insights to bring productions to life.

Grant Insights : Grants for Theater

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Uncommon — grants in this category are less prevalent than in others.

61 Grants for Theater grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

18 Grants for Theater over $25K in average grant size

7 Grants for Theater over $50K in average grant size

21 Grants for Theater supporting general operating expenses

48 Grants for Theater supporting programs / projects

300+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Theater

500+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Music

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for grants for Theater?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
33.1%
Q2
21.0%
Q3
26.2%
Q4
19.8%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Grants for Theater?

Grants are most commonly $10,500.

$625 $625 Min.
$10,500 $10.5 K Median
$25,258 $25.3 K Average
$250,000 $250 K Max.

Frequently asked questions

Grants for theatres provide funding for performances, educational programs, and community outreach. Nonprofit theatre companies, performing arts organizations, community theatre groups, and educational institutions focused on theatre arts can apply for these grants. Funders prioritize projects that expand access to theatre, support emerging playwrights, and foster artistic expression.

Grants for theatres typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q1, with 33.1% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q4.

These grants empower theatres to promote cultural expression, foster artistic talent, and engage diverse audiences. The funding from these grants supports theatre productions, arts education, community outreach, and professional development for actors, directors, and playwrights. Funders aim to promote diverse storytelling and sustain performing arts institutions.

Funding for theatre grants varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $625 to a maximum of $250,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $10,500, while the average grant awarded is $25,258. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

Private and state/local government agencies contribute to the $1.7M of funding available for theatre grants. Funding organizations include the Gates Family Foundation, the Children’s Theatre Foundation of America (CTFA), the DC Commission on Arts & Humanities, and the State Historial Society of North Dakota.

To improve their success rate, theatre organizations should consider the following in their application:

  • Outline artistic vision – Share your organization’s plans and detail how funding can help achieve these goals.
  • Demonstrate community engagement – Highlight how your organization has engaged with the community and the outcomes of these efforts.
  • Share sustainability plans – Provide a compelling sustainability plan for your productions and share insight on how funding will benefit these plans
  • Detail partnership efforts – Demonstrate how your organization partners with your community to drive forward performing arts initiatives.

Struggling to manage multiple grants? Learn how to stay organized with our comprehensive grant tracking spreadsheet guide.

Instrumentl helps theatre organizations streamline grant research by curating best-fit funding opportunities, tracking deadlines, and offering funder insights.

Streamline your grant management process with our workflow automation tools.