Arts Institute for Creative Advancement
Class of 2026

The Arts Institute for Creative Advancement (AICA) proudly presents our graduating Class of 2026: a talented, diverse, hire-ready cohort of professional theatre technicians ready to make their mark on the DC region and beyond.

Over the course of their year-long, paid apprenticeship, these young professionals have trained with leading theaters and entertainment venues in the DMV area, developing skills in lighting, carpentry, audio engineering, scenic painting, props and costuming, stage management, and more.

To connect with an AICA graduate for employment opportunities, you can find their contact information below or on their resume. You can also email Natalie Pertz, AICA Program Director, at natalie@arts-institute.org with any inquiries or reference requests.

“Over half of our young part-time workforce comes from AICA graduates.”

— Jeffery Martin, Technical Director of Studio Theater

The Arts Institute for Creative Advancement’s
Class of 2026

Queen Acobta, Sakarra Acosta, Ne'vaeh Akoto, Alex Barrera, Timothy Cedrone, Jamie DiNorma, Chloe Dodson, Light Eldawah, David Greene, Ricquan "Quan" Greenfield, Puck Henley, Mayah Jimason, Juwan "Juan" Jones, Jarrod "JJ" Joshua, Monae Melson, Reign Muhammad, Isaac Saiger, Kiata Smith, Desmond Smith, Quel "Q" Thompson, Max Tuck, Jack Wadeson, Rob Walker, and Wesley Walker

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Partners

Meet our partner network of over 30 of the DMV region’s most respected arts institutions.

FAQs

Read common questions about the AICA and how the program works.

Meet the Team

Meet the founders and core team members behind the AICA.

For questions about applying to the AICA, send a message to:

Isabel Reiff
Admissions Coordinator
AICAapplications@yahoo.com

For general questions about the AICA, send a message to:

Natalie Pertz
AICA Program Director
natalie@arts-institute.org

The AICA is committed to transforming the technical theatre industry by supporting emerging artists and promoting inclusivity.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Grant No. H421F240164, administered by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

The contents of this website were developed under grant H421F240164 from the U.S. Department of Education (Department). The Department does not mandate or prescribe practices, models, or other activities described or discussed in this document. The contents of this website may contain examples of, adaptations of, and links to resources created and maintained by another public or private organization. The Department does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. The content of this website does not necessarily represent the policy of the Department. This publication is not intended to represent the views or policy of or be an endorsement of any views expressed, or materials provided by any Federal agency (EDGAR 75.620).