Education Programs

The Majestic Empire Foundation Building the Future of Performing Arts

The Majestic Empire Foundation transforms lives by providing world-class arts education programs that inspire, empower, and elevate young talent across South Texas. Through scholarships, hands-on training, and high-caliber performance opportunities, MEF ensures that students—regardless of background—have access to transformative experiences that nurture their artistic potential and develop essential life skills.

Our foundation actively supports various initiatives to promote arts access and education in the region. These initiatives include:

01.
The Joci Awards Scholarship and Education Program

The Majestic Empire Foundation’s flagship education and scholarship initiative has awarded over $1.6 million in scholarships, providing transformative support for high school students of all socioeconomic backgrounds across South Texas. Throughout the fall and spring, MEF engages students and educators through in-school and on-site programming, with adjudication of high school musicals taking place across the season. Auditions for the showcase are held in February, and finalists are announced by mid-March. Selected students and participating high school programs then join an intensive, week-long Broadway Bootcamp—held outside of school hours—that replicates the professional rehearsal process. Under the guidance of Broadway-caliber instructors, choreographers, and production teams, they prepare for the Joci Awards Showcase, a one-night-only, Broadway-level performance in April 2025 at the historic Majestic Theatre. Each participant receives a minimum $3,000 scholarship to support their pursuit of higher education or professional training, regardless of their chosen field, and the top two performers advance to represent South Texas at the prestigious Jimmy Awards in New York City.

02.
Broadway Bridges @ Majestic Theatre

This program opens the doors of the Majestic Theatre to underserved high school students from across South Texas, providing them with free tickets to see Broadway shows. This initiative offers a unique opportunity for students to experience world-class Broadway productions with accompanying educational programming–completely free of charge.

03.
Broadway Masterclass Series

Offers free, high-quality theater education and training for high school students and teachers, led by cast members from Broadway touring productions performing at the Majestic Theatre. Each workshop is tailored to a specific production, offering hands-on learning opportunities that directly relate to the Broadway shows featured in our season.

04.
Produced by Youth Summer Academy

A tuition-free program that gives students real-world experience in theater production, from performing to technical design, culminating in a student-led, professional-level show. This initiative removes financial barriers and builds creativity, leadership, and collaboration skills.

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Free Masterclasses & Workshops

Tuition-free training led by industry professionals to enhance skills in acting, singing, dance, and technical theater, making professional-level education accessible to all.

01
Backstage Opportunities

Behind-the-scenes experiences at professional productions that offer students an inside look at the inner workings of live theater.

01
In-School Arts Programs

Workshops and mentorship sessions held directly in schools to expand arts education access and support student engagement where it is needed most.

01
College & Career Readiness Support

Programs specifically designed to guide students through the college audition and application process, offering personalized coaching, college counseling, and mock auditions to build essential skills like perseverance, collaboration, and confidence. These resources prepare students to stand out in competitive college auditions, interviews, and beyond—equipping them to excel in higher education and pursue any career path they choose.

01
Community Engagement Initiatives

Strategic partnerships and co-productions with nonprofits that promote arts education across South Texas. These collaborations foster a deeper appreciation for the arts and create a lasting impact on the region’s cultural landscape, enriching lives and inspiring the next generation of artists and audiences.

By bridging gaps in arts education and championing creative excellence, MEF nurtures the next generation of artists and innovators while shaping confident, resilient individuals prepared to succeed in any field. Each workshop, scholarship, and performance opportunity MEF provides is an investment in the future of our students and the community. Through its transformative programs, the Foundation empowers youth to dream bigger, strive for excellence, and build a brighter future—ensuring that opportunities to succeed are accessible to every student, regardless of socioeconomic background.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get my school involved with MEF?
Do you come speak to classes about the Joci Awards?
How do I apply for a Free on-site audition masterclass for my students?
Where do my students get more information about your programs?
Behind the Curtain

The Joci Awards