Creating a gateway to a career for underrepresented communities
NTS created the Accessibility and Inclusivity Program (AIP) to address the issue of ensuring access to the school for underrepresented artists. It is key to implement new possibilities for marginalized artists to enter the school in order to break the system of exclusion undermining accessibility to training in performing arts.
The main goal of the AIP is to give more tools and opportunities for IBPOC and marginalized artists. By studying at NTS in one of the nine professional training programs available, these underrepresented artists will open themselves to a lot of professional opportunities to start a career in the performing arts industries.
As part of the AIP, we are now working in collaboration with IBPOC and marginalized communities to foster participation in the arts and create alternative paths of entry to NTS’s professional training programs. The AIP is composed of two initiatives : New Pathways and the Stage Découverte(s).
New Pathways
New Pathways provides Indigenous students with comprehensive training in theatre production. It seeks to support Indigenous voices and stories in the performing arts by providing Indigenous students in theatre production with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career.
This flexible program ensures that financial barriers do not hinder talented individuals from pursuing their passion for theatre.
The program offers specialized training in Lighting Design and technology, Sound Design and technology, Projection Design and technology, Production Management, Technical Direction and Stage Management.
The program can be followed in one, two or three year options. The program year runs from late August until early May.
Photo: A technical rehearsal of The Neverending Story, 2026. Credit: Maxime Côté.
Stage Découverte(s)
The Stage Découverte(s) initiative is for young artists who are facing barriers (socio-cultural, financial or geographical barriers) to doing theatre. This initiative opens the doors to NTS to participants, giving them the opportunity to explore the disciplines of theatre in a supportive environment. The Stage Découverte(s) is intended for young people from 15 to 20 years old and takes place in French only.
This is an annual three-day internship in August, during which participants discover the multiple dimensions of theatrical practice by working on each stage of the creation of a play. The content of the intership is designed in collaboration with the Program Directors of the French Section and the workshops are led by NTS teaching artists. Lunches are provided and a financial compensation is available for travel and accommodation.
