It starts with a spark.
A soaring violin note. A gasp during a pirouette. A character that makes you feel seen. For students across Georgia, ArtsBridge Foundation creates these moments—the kind that awaken imagination, build confidence, and open doors to possibility.
Headquartered at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, ArtsBridge is on a mission to make arts education accessible—especially for Title I and underserved schools. Their work spans professional field trips, educational workshops, and game-changing programs like the Georgia High School Musical Theatre Awards, lovingly known as the Shulers.
Each year, two Georgia high school students are chosen to represent the state at The Jimmy Awards—essentially the Super Bowl of high school musical theatre. This year, that honor went to Hayden Poe and Kinsley Stephens of Dalton High School. After starring as Hermes and Eurydice in Hadestown: Teen Edition, they took their talents to New York City. There, they were selected for elite Character Medley groups—and Kinsley went on to become one of the Top 8 national finalists with her standout performance of “I Can’t Say No” from Oklahoma!
Their journey was guided by ArtsBridge’s Director of Arts Education, Elizabeth Lenhart, who mentors Georgia’s nominees each year. From preparing audition materials to offering one-on-one coaching, she ensures students are confident, polished, and ready for the big stage. Because the Shuler Awards are modeled after the Jimmy’s national format, students arrive with real-world experience—and a whole lot of heart.
“One of the most beautiful things we witness,” says the ArtsBridge team, “is how quickly these programs create connection. Our Shuler nominees come in as strangers and leave as family.”
Of course, not every ArtsBridge success story plays out under stage lights.
Many students encounter the arts for the first time through a field trip—an experience designed to educate, engage, and expand horizons. The upcoming 2025–2026 season features performances by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Ballet, Synchronicity Theatre, Mister C’s exciting STEM stage show, and a moving new production of Young John Lewis in partnership with Theatrical Outfit. These programs don’t just entertain—they help improve test scores, support emotional growth, and inspire lifelong learning. Additionally, when students attend an ArtsBridge field trip, they receive a Snack Pack to help fight food insecurity, another growing issue for Georgia’s population.
And at the heart of it all? A belief that the arts belong to everyone. ArtsBridge ensures that every student, regardless of circumstance, has the opportunity to engage meaningfully with the arts. By offering free transportation, financial aid subsidies, and programming that reflects the diverse communities they serve, the organization removes barriers that might otherwise keep students from experiencing the transformative power of creative expression.
Community support is what makes it all possible. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, business leader, or arts lover, there are meaningful ways to get involved. Donate to the Financial Aid Subsidy or Scholarship Fund, sponsor a program, or give your time as a volunteer. Every contribution helps bring the arts to life for students who need it most.
To learn more—or to be part of something inspiring—visit artsbridgega.org. Because every child deserves the chance to dream big, stand tall, and feel the light of the stage.
Pull Quotes:
“Each year, two Georgia students step into the national spotlight—because of the foundation built right here.”
“These aren’t just performances—they’re pathways. ArtsBridge field trips and programs open minds, lift spirits, and create connection in ways that last long after the curtain falls.”