Arcade Academy
Diversity Scholarship
2024 Scholarship applications open this Fall
Arcade Diversity Scholarship
in honor of Terrence W. Black
About the scholarship
We believe that the best comedy reflects the diverse world in which it is presented, and we are dedicated to making our stages representative of our community. The Arcade Diversity Scholarship, founded in honor of Terrence W. Black through the generous support of his son and with continuing funding from student and audience donations, provides an opportunity for underrepresented voices in Pittsburgh to learn, practice, and perform comedy on the Arcade stage.
Scholarship recipients on the Improv Track are awarded a complete education in improv comedy with 5 classes from Arcade’s core curriculum. Recipients on the Stand-Up/Writing Track are awarded 3 classes of their choosing from the disciplines of Stand Up, Writing, and Improv, and may take the same class multiple times should they wish. Additionally, all scholarship recipients will receive mentorship from Arcade instructors and performance opportunities. At least one scholarship will be granted in each track every year.
Throughout the student’s time in classes, they will learn lessons that build confidence in public speaking, collaboration, and creative expression — all while being immersed in Arcade’s community of performing artists. The goal is to train a new generation of comedic artists that will work and play in Pittsburgh as part of Arcade Comedy Theater’s premier comedy institution.
Who is this scholarship for?
The Arcade Diversity Scholarship serves those that identify as Black, Indigenous, or a Person of Color; LGBTQIA+; or belong to underrepresented groups that may not have access to invest in a comedy education. You must be 18 years or older to enroll in Arcade Academy classes.
We’re here to help:
If you are interested in learning more about our Diversity Scholarship, or would like to be updated when the next round of applications opens, please contact Arcade through info@arcadecomedytheater.com.
Learn more about Arcade’s improv classes here.
Scholarship Application
Arcade Comedy Theater will soon be accepting applications for its 2025 class of the Diversity Scholarship Program.
Mission Statement on Inclusion
Arcade Comedy Theater believes that the best comedy reflects the diverse world in which it is presented. We are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment to all artists, staff, and audience members who come through our doors. Arcade will take an active role to ensure equitable practices and remedy when there are disparities in our values. We understand that inclusion is a journey, and that while we work to do good today, we must also work to do better tomorrow.
If you have any questions about our mission of inclusion, please contact Abby Fudor, Director of Artistic Programs.
The application process:
- Complete the application form
- All applications are reviewed by our committee
- Candidates selected for an interview by the announced deadline
- Interviews with committee members will occur at a predetermined time
- Scholarship recipient(s) will be announced and begin taking classes starting with the closest upcoming session
Our Scholarship Committee
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Robin Hitchcock, Academy Director
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Nia Johnson, Manager of New Programming
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In addition to the above Arcade personnel, the application review committee and interview committee includes a group of dedicated volunteers who are artists, educators, and leaders in their fields that reflect the communities to which this scholarship is directed
“My father was not an artist, but he took pride in supporting the arts; while my mother devoted her retirement to creating art, he devoted his retirement to being a patron of the arts. I honor his legacy by supporting emerging comedic artists. The importance of cultivating diverse voices is unambiguous in my professional work in tech. Diverse perspectives lead to better outcomes. An inclusive environment requires intent, commitment, and investment; with my hope channeled to enable each through this scholarship.”
— Tom Black, Arcade donor
2023 Class of Scholarship Recipients
Asher O’Briant
Sydney DuBose
Zach Reed
Sydney Stephenson
Arcade Comedy Theater has a great way of welcoming community members of all backgrounds and identities. It was at this theater that I saw performers who looked like me and truly made me feel represented in the comedy space. Whenever I leave shows at Arcade, not only am I entertained, but I’m also inspired by my potential to grow as a performer. While I am eager to learn new improv forms and comedy practices this year, I am also excited to meet people who support each other both on and off the stage.
The arcade family gave me the opportunity to build up my confidence and professionalism, to take my comedy writing to the next level.
2022 Class of Scholarship Recipients
First Class of Scholarship Recipients
