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Blumenthal Arts Emerging Leaders

Discover the Arts. Develop Your Future.
Step into the future with confidence. Through hands-on experience as part of Blumenthal Arts’ usher team, you’ll sharpen essential skills in communication, leadership, and customer service while building the poise to thrive in any career. Attend world-class performances and take part in workshops that reveal the many ways the arts can inspire, connect, and transform communities. Along the way, you’ll expand your network, grow lasting friendships, and discover how the arts can be a lifelong source of opportunity and impact.

Apply to be a Blumenthal Arts Emerging Leader!

  • Gain skills in leadership, customer service, communication & public speaking
  • Build confidence, friendships, and networks
  • Enjoy unforgettable arts experiences
  • Explore careers and connections in the arts

Important Dates

2026-2027 Application Deadline: Wednesday, September 16, 2026

 Group Interviews (applicants will receive a link to sign up for a slot):

  • Tuesday, September 22, 2026
  • Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Placement Emails sent: Friday, September 25, 2026

Mandatory Orientation: Saturday, October 3, 9:30 – 12:30

Mandatory Front of House Training: Monday, October 5, 6:00-8:00

Seminar 1: Saturday, November 7, 9:30 – 12:00

Seminar 2: Saturday, December 5, 9:30 – 12:00

Mid-Year Social: Saturday, January 9, 9:30 – 12:30

Seminar 3: Saturday, February 6, 9:30 – 12:00

Seminar 4: Saturday, March 6, 9:30 – 12:00

Seminar 5: Saturday, April 10, 9:30 – 12:00

End-of-Year Banquet: Wednesday, April 14, 6:00-9:00

Eligibility

  • Must be a high school Junior or Senior.
  • Must usher a minimum of 1 show per month in Blumenthal Arts venues in uptown Charlotte.
  • Must be able to attend the Mandatory Orientation on Oct 3 and the Mandatory Front of House training on Oct 5.
  • Must be able to attend a minimum of 5 monthly seminars/workshops on Saturday mornings in uptown Charlotte.

Application Process

  • Complete a digital application here.
  • Email the following required documents to educationdepartment@blumenthalarts.org by Wednesday, September 16, 2026:
    1. A personal essay (maximum 2 pages) or video (maximum 2 minutes) addressing the following:
      • Describe a time you stepped outside your comfort zone within a group or community. What motivated you, how did you contribute, and what did you learn? How would you bring that mindset to Emerging Leaders? Please be specific—focus on one moment rather than multiple experiences.
    2. One recommendation form (below) to be emailed directly from a teacher, guidance counselor, employer, youth leader, coach, etc.
  • Attend a group interview – applicants will receive an email to sign up for a time slot.

  • Updated 2026-27 Recommendation Form is here: 2026-27 Emerging Leaders Recommendation Form.docx

Have questions? Contact the Education Team at EducationDepartment@blumenthalarts.org