It’s time to register for the annual Shakespeare Monologue & Scene Contest
Pittsburgh Public Theater has been busy behind the scenes, launching initiatives to expand community engagement, as well as educational and workforce development.
While announcing collaborations with Partner4Work, Pittsburgh Public Schools, and Commonwealth Charter Academy, The Public also revealed the February date for the 31st annual Shakespeare Monologue & Scene Contest.
NEW EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
The Public “is deepening its commitment to accessibility, creativity, and career readiness,” while announcing a new partnership with Commonwealth Charter Academy (CCA), the largest public cyber charter school in the state, and partnering with Pittsburgh Public Schools to launch “a dynamic new residency program.”
Developed in collaboration with Westinghouse Academy 6–12 and led by educator Marc Stern, the residency will embed professional artists into the classroom “to support Stern’s training on the core principles of acting, performance techniques, and the broader world of theater arts, culminating in a final presentation at the conclusion of the school year.”
“While reinforcing Pennsylvania State Standards and supporting academic achievement, the residency also invites students to explore their identities, build confidence, and discover creative expression through performance.”
Pittsburgh Public Schools serves 19,500 students, from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.
Commonwealth Charter Academy (CCA) serves more than 30,000 students across Pennsylvania. Through its partnership with Pittsburgh Public, CCA will expand arts access by integrating theater education into virtual classrooms. Students also have the opportunity to attend The Public’s student matinees.
SHAKESPEARE MONOLOGUE & SCENE CONTEST
In its 30th year, the Shakespeare Monologue & Scene Contest welcomes 1,000 area students in grades 4–12 to perform monologues and scenes from Shakespeare’s works at the O’Reilly Theater. Participants receive free coaching and workshops, contest T-shirts, and the chance to perform live in The Showcase of Finalists, on February 23, 2026. Registration is now open.
BEHIND THE SCENES CAREER TRAINING
Pittsburgh Public Theater is partnering with Partner4Work, focusing on behind-the-scenes careers in theater production. In August 2025, the pilot Public’s Workforce Sessions — presented in partnership with Create PA and funded by the Richard King Mellon Foundation — offered free, hands-on courses in backstage theater careers, including set design, millinery arts, and costume production.
“Our work aligns closely with Pittsburgh Public Theater’s vision of becoming a leading resource for skills training in the arts and expanding access to non-traditional pathways into creative careers,” shared Rob Cherry, CEO of Partner4Work.
Looking ahead to 2026, The Public will expand its collaboration with IATSE Local #3 and the IATSE Training Trust Fund Project to deliver practical training and career development for both emerging and experienced theater professionals. For more information, contact Director of Participation & Partnerships Dominique Briggs at dbriggs@PPT.org.
Categories: Arts Education, Company
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