The Artist Residency Program (ARP) will be awarded to one recipient on an annual basis.

The recipient will have free tuition and access to:

1. One session (6 classes) with John Gordon (On-Camera Scene Study)
2. One session (6 classes) with Shaun McComb (On-Camera Scene Study)
3. Voice Classes (6 hours of private lessons) with Peter N. Bailey
4. One session with Victoria Urquhart (Grant Writing 101 Workshop)
5. Three hours of business coaching with Cynthia Chan

Applications will be accepted for the 2026 Residency between January 1 and April 30, 2026 (6:00pm EST)

Short-listed candidates will be granted an interview between May 23 and June 6, and the recipient will be notified by June 15, 2025.

The 2026 ARP will begin on July 1, 2026 and end June 30, 2027.

ARP Information Package:

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Click here to see a list of past ARP recipients.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:

1. Completed ARP Google Application Form including headshot + resume/artistic CV.
2. Reference letter from a member of the artistic community.
3. Personal essay (500-1000 words) answering two key questions.
4. Video submission – maximum 3 minutes demonstrating a sample of your art form.
5. [NOT MANDATORY] Short letter from your Talent Agent listing what roles you are usually sent out for AND why they have you as a client on their roster.

What is the selection process?

• We will begin to accept applications in early January, and applications are due by April 30, 2026 (6:00pm EST)
• The selection committee (Cynthia Chan, John Gordon, Shaun McComb, Peter Bailey and Christian Lloyd) will review applicants from May 1-15, 2026.
• Short-listed candidates will be contacted for an online interview by May 15, 2026.
• Interviews will be held over Zoom on May 22, May 29 or June 5, 2026.
• ARP Recipient will be notified by June 15, 2026.

Who can apply to The Dirt’s ARP?

We welcome applications from both emerging and established artists, including those with little or no acting experience.

For those new to acting, the ARP offers a unique opportunity to engage with a comprehensive curriculum led by seasoned professionals.

If you are an experienced actor who feels creatively stalled, the ARP can serve as a catalyst to reignite your passion and explore new approaches.

Whether you’re just beginning or looking to break through creative blocks, the program offers a nurturing environment to deepen your artistic journey and rediscover the joy of acting.

What should I focus on for the essay + video?

ESSAY SUBMISSION (please answer both questions):

Question 1:

Describe a recent creative experience—whether in acting (class, stage, or screen) or in another artistic medium—that challenged you or stretched you artistically. What made this experience demanding or transformative for you? Reflect on what you discovered about your craft, your process, or yourself as an artist through that experience. [250-500 words]

Question 2:

If you are chosen as the ARP recipient, what growth and development would you like to see in your acting after studying at The Dirt for one year? [250-500 words]

VIDEO SUBMISSION (max. 3 minutes):
Please show us a sample of your art form (i.e. demo reel, monologue, dance, musical performance, scene you directed). Feel free to include a variety of scenes that can show your range as an actor.

What will the selection committee be looking for when choosing the Residency recipient?

• Applicant is curious and embracing of The Dirt’s philosophy towards acting and artistic pursuits.
• Special consideration for people who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Person of Colour).
• The Dirt will give special consideration to emerging artists (actors in the early stages of their career).
• Consideration of how studying at The Dirt for a year will impact the applicant’s artistic future.

What are the goals of creating the ARP?

• Encourages applications from artists who may have previously felt unable to participate
• Promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion within The Dirt community
• Provides The Dirt with an opportunity to give back to the acting community
• Allows The Dirt to build stronger connections with the wider artistic community
• for a list of past recipients please click here

How do I apply?

Click here. The online application form will prompt you to upload all required documents. *Video submission can be sent via WeTransfer to info@dirtunderneath.com

** WE WILL ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS BEGINNING JANUARY 2026 **

Who can I contact for more information?

Cynthia Chan (Business Coach + Administrative Director) – info@dirtunderneath.com