ABOUT PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

“Project Spotlight was definitely a milestone in my life. The diversity and people it exposed me to both inspired me as an artist and as a human being.” - Youth Performer

Project Spotlight is a unique community service program for young aspiring performing artists offered by ENCOMPASS. This annual summer program uniquely blends performing arts, human relations training and volunteerism. Project Spotlight culminates in a large-scale benefit performance that raises funds for and awareness about ENCOMPASS’ work to spark compassion, personal responsibility and an appreciation of differences among California teenagers.
 
Each spring, ENCOMPASS holds auditions, leading to the selection of 12 of the most talented aspiring actors, dancers, filmmakers, vocalists, musicians, and other performing artists in the greater Los Angeles area (see audition information below). Selected youth work with a professional director, producer and playwright during the 10-day Project Spotlight program to infuse their individual performances into an original production that explores contemporary social issues—and the ways they relate to youth artists.
 
During these 10-days of performance rehearsal and dialogue, Project Spotlight uses professional facilitators to challenge participants to explore and discuss important social topics such as diversity, inclusion, prejudice and social change. The program provides young artists with a platform to express their personal stories and unique perspectives on these issues. These conversations offer participating youth a better understanding of ENCOMPASS—and each other—as they prepare for the annual culminating performance.
 
Project Spotlight closes with a benefit performance consisting of solo acts chosen by the young artists, woven together by original material produced during the 10-day preparatory program. The benefit performance provides young artists with a platform to express their unique stories and perspectives on the issues explored during the dialogue sessions. Proceeds support ENCOMPASS’ work to spark compassion, personal responsibility and an appreciation of differences among California teenagers. Certification of community service is available among completion of the program.

* All Project Spotlight audition, program and performance dates are subject to change. Please check back for the most up-to-date schedule.