Call for African American Artists - Underground Railroad Project Set to Launch in 2010

Young Audiences of Western New York is developing an innovative and exciting program that will focus on Buffalo’s integral role in one of our nation’s most powerful yet hidden movements - the Underground Railroad.  The development of this program is made possible with the support of the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo.

In order to develop the Underground Railroad Residency, YA-WNY is in search of artists whose work relates the story of the Underground Railroad.  We are looking for African-American teaching artists specializing in the fields of literary, dance and movement, visual, dramatic, and cultural arts to join our roster and our collaborative team.  For more information about our application process please visit our Prospective Artist Page.

The Underground Railroad Project will expand knowledge and pride in Western New York history and cultural diversity. The multidisciplinary arts rich residency will increase student literacy and provide professional development for teachers.  Combining song, storytelling, dance, and a traveling museum the residency will bring Western New York history to life for young learners. 

Western New York provides the perfect cultural intersection of outstanding artists and rich, relevant historical perspectives, ideal for the creation of a program committed to an accurate and exciting portrayal of the Underground Railroad.  Young Audiences of WNY is looking to partner with our community’s most significant landmarks, organizations, and artists involved with preservation of the Underground Railroad.