VOICES FROM ELM

Workshops to uplift untold stories from the Black and Brown
perspective and experience—raw, real, and resonant. 

Voices from Elm is a program founded by W.A.B. Studio & Conservatory and designed for experienced black and brown writers and actors. It provides a "writer's room" experience, allowing local writers to learn how to pitch, create, and produce their stories collaboratively. Additionally, actors will work closely with writers to prepare for performing scenes as part of the creative process. Then, actors will work closely with writers to prepare for performing scenes as part of the creative process. The final scenes will be recorded as in our studio at NMS, and students will be able to have the recordings for their portfolio/reel.

This program is committed to equitable access. If you need support with the application process or have accessibility concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out—we’re happy to help.

Writing WorkshopActing Workshop

Writing Workshop

We’re seeking bold, original voices from writers of color to join our Voices from Elm Program—a collaborative initiative to develop, write, and produce scripted podcast episodes that shed light on the experiences of Black and Brown individuals and reflect the richness and complexity of our communities.

This program is more than just a “writing gig”. It’s a chance to be part of a creative, supportive writers’ room where your voice matters and your stories and experiences are centered. It also prepares you for a career in the entertainment industry as a professional writer.

Who Should Apply?

What You'll Do

We welcome screenwriters, playwrights, poets, fiction writers, and other storytellers ready to explore audio drama or narrative nonfiction.

The program will meet once per week: Fridays, October 17- November 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

APPLY TODAY!

Acting Workshop

Are you a voice actor or performer of color with a passion for storytelling? We’re casting talented, dynamic actors of color for an original scripted podcast series developed through our Voices from Elm Program.

This is your opportunity to help bring powerful, character-driven stories to life—stories written by and for underrepresented voices in the writing industry.

Who Should Apply?

  • Actors of color (Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Middle Eastern, Indian, or other underrepresented identities) to portray characters written by local writers;
  • Actors willing to work closely and collaborate in the “writers room” experience by offering constructive feedback and ideas to writers from the actor's perspective.

We are committed to an inclusive casting policy and encourages all actors to audition regardless of an individual’s sex, race, color, religion, age, disability, status as a veteran, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression. Accommodations are welcome for persons with access needs.

The program will meet once per week: Fridays, October 17- November 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

APPLY TODAY!

About W.A.B. Studio & Conservatory

Mission: To serve and propel Black and Brown working and aspiring artists in the New Haven community.  
Vision: Bridging the gap between local talent and industry employment.

W.A.B. Founders and Voices from Elm Teaching Artists:
Jacqueline Brown (left) and Kendall Driffin (right)
W.A.B. Studio & Conservatory is a non-profit performing arts organization founded by Kendall Driffin and Jacqueline Brown, servings as a school and production company. W.A.B. is for Black and Brown artists residing in New Haven who wish to advance in their craft but may not have the financial means to do so. W.A.B. Conservatory serves as that stepping stone offering affordable classes, community workshops and programming specializing in Acting for Stage and Film/TV, Play & Screen writing, and Film/TV Production operating in New Haven, Connecticut.

QUESTIONS?

Please email voicesfromelm@nmsnewhaven.org or call 203-624-5189, extension 17, for more information.