Our Programming

Since our founding in 2020, TPOC has proudly offered unique, tuition-free educational programs tailored for aspiring theatre producers. This training provides participants with hands-on, real-time experience in every aspect of Broadway producing while expanding their professional networks. Discover more about TPOC’s flagship program and how it can shape your future in the world of theatre.

Producing 101

Producing 101 asks a simple but vital question: what does it mean to be a producer today? At TPOC, we believe producers are not only business leaders but also cultural leaders whose choices shape the future of theater. The role is ever-evolving—defined by the moment we’re in, the communities we serve, and the urgent challenges facing our industry. Together, we’ll explore how producers decide which stories reach the stage, how shifting cultural and economic realities impact our work, and what values must guide us as we build a more equitable, sustainable, and inclusive theater.

This eleven-week, tuition-free program combines study with practice. Participants will engage in conversations on core producing philosophies while learning directly from the teams who bring Broadway productions to life. Each cohort member will also choose either one of their own projects or a current Broadway show as a case study, applying tools in real time—developing pitch materials for investors and co-producers, analyzing financial and artistic viability, and charting practical next steps for moving their work forward.

By the end of the program, participants will leave with a stronger understanding of the producer’s role, a toolkit of strategies for sustaining a career, and a community of peers and mentors committed to transforming the future of Broadway.

Program Overview:

  • The Basics of Producing
  • Building Anti-Racist Practices in Your Producing Process
  • First Hires – General Management and Lawyers
  • Raising Money
  • Pitching Your Project
  • Creative Development & Developmental Opportunities
  • Collaborating with Non-Profits
    Off-Broadway & Broadway
  • Marketing, Press, and Building Your Brand

Dates:

December 1, 2025
December 15, 2025
January 5, 2026
January 12, 2026
January 19, 2026
January 26, 2026
February 2, 2026
February 16, 2026
February 23, 2026
March 2, 2026
March 16, 2026

Classes will be held on Monday evenings via Zoom.

Applications are now open through October 24, 2025. Apply here.
Applicants will be notified of decisions by late November 2025.

If you have any questions, please email info@theatreproducersofcolor.org

Our Program Mentor

Headshot of TPOC Program Mentor

Sammy Lopez (he/him) is a Tony Award-winning theatre-maker dedicated to uplifting historically excluded voices through the arts. He is a co-founder and producer at P3 Productions, which recently produced CALL ME IZZY starring Jean Smart, HOW TO DANCE IN OHIO and JOB on Broadway, with MEXODUS by Brian Quijada and Nygel D. Robinson, now playing Off-Broadway at Audible’s Minetta Lane Theatre. In development, P3 is building the Broadway-bound musical WANTED, which previously played at Paper Mill Playhouse and Signature Theatre, as well as THE NINTH WOMAN, a new musical by the band Delta Rae. Sammy’s recent co-producing credits with P3 include ART, SUNSET BLVD. (Tony Award), THE LAST FIVE YEARS, JUST FOR US, A STRANGE LOOP (Tony Award), NEXT TO NORMAL (West End), ORLAND (West End), and THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST (West End).

In addition to his work at P3 Productions, he serves as the Creative Producer at New York City Children’s Theater, developing new theatre experiences for young audiences and families, including adaptations of FISH IN A TREE (Off-Broadway), SAME SAME BUT DIFFERENT (Virtual Production), and the original play ¡CORRE, ABUELITA, CORRE!, inspired by his Abuelita (NYC Five Borough Tour).

Sammy co-founded The Industry Standard Group (TISG) and Second Act Theatrical Capital (2ATC) in 2020, organizations dedicated to increasing BIPOC representation among producers and investors in the entertainment industry. He mentors for Theatre Producers of Color (TPOC) and is a partner/educator with The Business of Broadway. Sammy has been recognized as a TEDxBroadway speaker, a Shubert Organization Artistic Circle recipient, and a Broadway League Fellow & Rising Star.

A proud graduate of Syracuse University, Sammy serves on the boards of New 42, TYA/USA, The Broadway League, CO/LAB Theater Group, and The Autistic Theatremakers Alliance. www.sammy-lopez.com

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who can apply?

    Producing 101 is open to all BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) over the age of 18, regardless of background, level of education/training or previous accomplishment. If you are under 18, we encourage you to still sign up for our email list to stay updated on our other programming.

  • How much does the course cost?

    The course is free for all participants. TPOC relies solely on donations to cover the operating costs of the organization. You can donate here to support us if you’re able.

  • What are the basic technical requirements for participating in the course?

    You will need to access the course via Zoom. This means you will need a device that supports it, and a Zoom account, for which you can register for free.

  • Who is reviewing the applications?

    Applications are being evaluated by a selection panel of BIPOC industry professionals.