The VORTEX
Fearless Theatre Exchange, Established 1988
The VORTEX offers in-school and out-of-school youth programs that center creativity, equity, and care. Through Summer Youth Theatre and Courageous Cadence, we empower young artists to build community, develop their voice, and create bold, transformative performance.
In-School Offerings from The VORTEX
Rooted in our core programs, Summer Youth Theatre and Courageous Cadence, these in-school experiences bring transformative theatre and spoken word directly to classrooms and campuses. All offerings are led by professional artists and teaching artists committed to youth development, artistry, and equity.
Page to Stage: Intro to Theatre Arts
Grades 6–12 | 1–3 Sessions
Students explore the building blocks of theatre through games, ensemble-building, and storytelling exercises. Great as an intro or warm-up to larger units in ELA or fine arts.
Skills: collaboration, creative expression, body/voice awareness
Speak Your Truth: Intro to Spoken Word Poetry
Grades 8–12 | 1–3 Sessions
This workshop invites students to write and perform poems grounded in identity, personal narrative, and social justice. Designed to support self-expression and emotional literacy in a safe, affirming space.
Skills: writing, performance, public speaking, self-reflection
Theatre of Care: Social-Emotional Learning Through Drama
Grades 6–12 | 1–2 Sessions
Interactive drama-based activities help students build empathy, resilience, and self-awareness. A powerful support to SEL initiatives, particularly for youth processing stress or social conflict.
Skills: self-regulation, active listening, emotional expression
Core Educational Programs (Out of School Time)
Courageous Cadence
Tuition-Free | High School Youth | Spoken Word + Social Justice
A youth-centered spoken word and theatre-making intensive that empowers young poets and performers to use their voices for justice. Through monthly workshops, guest artist sessions, and a fully staged residency, participants explore identity, advocacy, and artistic expression rooted in race, gender, and healing justice.
Original writing and performance development
Grounded in literacy and social-emotional learning
Final performance showcasing youth voices
Summer Youth Theatre (SYT)
Tuition-Free | Ages 13–17
An award-winning program offering teens the opportunity to train and perform like professional artists in fully produced theatrical productions. SYT nurtures future artists and leaders through a process grounded in collaboration, care, and artistic rigor.
Performances on The VORTEX stage
Roles available in acting, design, and production
Emphasis on creativity, critical thinking, and ensemble-building
For more details visit: http://vortexrep.org/
Contact:
Jasmine Games, Director of Education & Social Justice
Telephone: 512-478-5282
Email: jasmine@vortexrep.org
2307 Manor Rd. Austin, TX 78722