Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Ebony Road Players
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 706 E Griswold
City: Grand Rapids
State: MI
Postal Code: 49507
Main Phone: 616-443-1601
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://ebonyroad.org/
Employer ID Number: 46-4455061
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/31/2025
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: DreamBig Performers
Project Description:

DreamBig Performers is a transformative youth initiative developed by Ebony Road Players to address the theater industry’s systemic imbalances in opportunities and funding, which disproportionately favor white individuals and institutions. Research reveals that the majority of theater contracts and financial resources flow to these institutions, leaving Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) largely underrepresented both onstage and behind the scenes.

Structured in three parts, the program begins with a Story2Stage summer camp where participants craft their own narratives and learn the fundamentals of theatrical production. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, they develop storytelling skills, collaborate with peers, and gain confidence performing for an audience. This immersive experience lays the groundwork for their creative growth.

The second stage is a five-day workshop bridging the summer camp and the fall production. Its focus is on vocal techniques, stage production basics, and understanding venue acoustics, culminating in a mock audition. Emphasizing music, this workshop keeps participants engaged while they refine the skills acquired during the camp and prepare for the final phase.

Part three features a youth-oriented fall production showcasing the talents of camp alumni. By welcoming participants from diverse backgrounds, DreamBig Performers fosters cultural understanding and offers a platform for young artists to bring their creative visions to life. Through these three integrated stages, the program not only counters systemic inequities but also empowers aspiring performers to shape a more inclusive and dynamic future in theater.

Total Project Budget: $47,850

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Hermanski Foundation – $10,000 Pending / Fund Raising & Donations – $5,000 – Committed & Pending / Wege Foundation – $32,850 – Committed

Project Duration: 12 Months
Geographical Area Served: West Michigan – Grand Rapids
Age Group To Be Served: School aged Children from Middle School through High School

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms
Contact First Name: Edith
Contact Last Name: Evans Hyde
Contact Title: Executive Diretor
Contact Phone: 616-443-1601
Contact Email: edye@ebonyroad.org