About the Festival
Manifest the Future is a youth showcase that celebrates original, solo works from Austin youth aged 8 – 17. The festival, hosted by New Manifest Theatre Company and Austin Community College at ACC Highland.
Local educators and industry leaders will oversee the festival, offering valuable performance insight and mentorship.
About the Artwork
Vanessa Hoang Hughes’s painting Where the Water Falls
From Last Year’s Festival
How Do I Create An Original Piece?
Watch as New Manifest’s Producing Artistic Director, Simone Alexander, shares tips and tricks for crafting an original work of art.
FAQs
How old do you have to be to participate?
You have to be between the ages of 8 and 17 to participate.
What is the festival like?
The festival, taking place on January 25th 2025, is inclusive and casual. Here, kids can share their work on stage in front of a supportive audience. Local educators and industry leaders will offer constructive feedback, but it is not a competition.
Do I need to have any writing or performance experience?
Nope! All levels are welcome, but new performers are encouraged to attend one of our free workshop sessions. There, educators will help students craft their unique piece and get it ready for the festival.
Will all work be created at the workshop or should folks bring something in?
Either way! If you have something prepared, bring it in. Otherwise, you are welcome to develop your piece from scratch at the workshop.
We will spend the first part of the workshop drafting new ideas and the second half on public speaking and performance.
What are the themes from the artwork that they should be considering?
There are no rules. Anything that comes to mind about the artwork or the title can be used for inspiration.
Is it a competition?
Manifest the Future is not a competition. It’s a celebration of creativity. We encourage all types of solo performances, including poetry readings, storytelling, songs, and monologues.
What if I want to write, but not perform?
In order to participate in the festival, participants need to perform their pieces in front of an audience. Not ready to step into the spotlight yet? No worries! You’re more than welcome to attend a workshop and work on your piece with a mentor.
Can I perform with a partner?
Manifest the Future showcases solo performances only. At this time, we are not including short plays, duets, or skits.
New Manifest Theatre Company 