The Theater Development Fund’s “Graduation Gift” is a commitment to making theater accessible to all students by providing free one year membership ( Illustrated by Guadalupe Abarca)

On an upcoming night, a group of high school seniors will be lined up under the city lights holding free tickets to “Cats: The Jellicle Ball,” preparing to step into the theater.

As part of its “Graduation Gift,” the nonprofit organization Theater Development Fund has announced that it would be providing a free one-year TDF membership to all graduating seniors from NYC public and charter high schools for the third running year.

With a TDF membership, high school seniors have access to New York City’s performing arts at a reduced cost of up to 70 percent off. The membership allows them to purchase tickets for Broadway and Off-Broadway shows at a fraction of the regular price. TDF launched this gift in 2023 with the mission to make theater more accessible and encourage students to become a part of the New York City performing arts community.

Ginger Bartkoski Meagher, Vice President of Programs at TDF, explained, “We want to remove barriers like ticket costs and help students feel a part of the community.” She noted that in 2023, about 2,500 students signed up for the membership, and that number doubled to 5,000 in the following year, 2024. Many of these students used their memberships to attend shows; some even became regular TDF members, developing a lasting interest in theater.

TDF had observed that students were losing interest in theater, so they set a goal to increase participation even further. Their goal is to reach approximately 8,000 students this year, which represents 10 percent of the graduating seniors in NYC. TDF hopes that one in every ten students will be involved in the theater scene, watching shows with their families and exploring the opportunity.

Many teachers and students see this program as a valuable opportunity. Mr. Weber, English teacher and drama club advisor said that the program is great. “I hope students will take advantage, especially those that stay in the New York City area. Sometimes students growing up here are unaware of the activities available, and now that they have access to TDF, they are open to a whole new world.” Mr. Weber said as an already regular member of TDF.

Alyssa Blandon, a passionate theater fan, added, “I think this gift helps people who aren’t able to afford tickets otherwise.” Paige Gabler , a drama club member, agreed. “It feels nice to go see shows at a much discounted price. I just signed up and even sent the information to my friend at a different school.”

The vice president of programs at TDF emphasized the importance of targeting seniors who are about to enter college and might be potentially facing new financial challenges. “This takes off a burden and makes it easier for students to explore theater without needing a credit card to sign up. It’s a full year of opportunities for discovery,” she said.

Each student that signs up to the program can also enter for a chance to see the upcoming popular Broadway production of “Cats: The Jellicle Ball.” The show will be on May 5 at 6:30 p.m., and drawings to win two free tickets to the performance ends May 1. A welcoming party will take place before the show where students will have the opportunity to meet others and enjoy the evening.

The benefits extend beyond the entertainment of theater. TDF hopes to help students build cultural connections and support their emotional and mental well-being. Theater helps build confidence, creativity, and communication skills. Programs like TDF help young people experience the arts.

To get your free TDF membership, you need proof of eligibility. That means you need your NYC DOE Student ID (OSIS) number. If you are a senior in NYC public or charter schools, you can sign up and start exploring the world of theater.