DETROIT—National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) has approved Matrix Theatre Company for a grant in the amount of $20,000 to support arts education programming in Detroit.

For over 25 years, Matrix Theatre Company has presented transformative arts education programs at its theatre and other community locations in metro Detroit. The NEA award will provide funding for classes and workshops for youth ages 5 – 18 at Matrix Theatre and at partnering organizations and institutions throughout Detroit. These educational programs offer youth the opportunity to explore playwriting, performing, and visual arts and develop their literacy and social skills.

“We are always excited to offer new programming to students in the Detroit area, and the NEA has been generous to support us in this mission.  In the coming year, we look forward to serving students who have not had the chance to experience theatre and are eager to see what new plays they create.”

Beginning in January, Matrix is auditioning new members to the Matrix Teen Company. Matrix Teen Company members will spend their winter and spring developing their newest original play to be performed in April, 2017. Admittance to the company is by audition/interview only and interested teens should call 313-967-0999 ext. 3 for more information.

Beginning in February, Matrix presents its “Discover Our Voice” class series. Youth will work with peers while guided by highly-trained teaching artists to create original plays and productions based on subjects and ideas important to them. These once-weekly after school classes run on Tuesdays from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., February 7 through April 11.

For more information about youth classes and the Matrix Teen Company, visit the website at www.matrixtheatre.org/classes-offered.