The performing arts season for theatre companies usually runs from fall through the spring, and for youth in Miami-Dade County the new year will bring with it plenty of chances to display their talents and develop them to their fullest. Theatre in Our Schools Month and Music in Our Schools Month are celebrated in March, giving youth time to prep for April auditions for the Sweet 16 season of Young Talent Big Dreams, Miami-Dade’s largest free youth talent competition, presented once again by The Children’s Trust.
For 16 years, Young Talent Big Dreams has been a launchpad for thousands of kids and teens. Open to Miami-Dade youth ages 8–18, the competition welcomes performers in vocal music, dance, spoken word, musical instruments, and original composition. Many past contestants have gone on to national stages, including NBC’s The Voice, America’s Got Talent, and Broadway.
This year, auditions begin in early April and run through April 19, with semifinals set for May 2–3 and the final showcase on May 9, with everything happening at the Miracle Theatre in Coral Gables. Participation is completely free, and pre-registered performers (registration starts in February) receive priority audition times. Winners can earn cash prizes, scholarships, and performance opportunities, but organizers say the true value of the program goes much deeper.
“The Children’s Trust is proud to play a role in the journeys of the young talents of Miami-Dade County," said James R. Haj, President & CEO of The Children’s Trust. "No matter the outcome of this season, the biggest win is our community’s dedication to nurturing local talent and creating meaningful opportunities for them to shine.”
A commitment to arts access
Beyond the stage at the Miracle Theatre, The Children’s Trust supports arts programs across the county through a long-standing partnership with the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs. Since 2006, this joint effort has helped expand access to arts enrichment classes, summer arts and science camps, and the All Kids Included initiative, which ensures children of all abilities can participate in the arts.
In the last year alone, the partnership helped fund 62 nonprofit organizations and 13 special projects. More than 32,000 children participated, including thousands of intensive camps and community-based arts programs. Evaluations showed that between 91 and 99 percent improved their art skills, science skills, and peer relationships.
A new stage for high school artists
The Trust’s support for the performing arts also helped spark a new countywide program: the Arsht High School Musical Theater Awards, also known as The Arshties. Thanks to an Innovation Fund grant from The Children’s Trust, the Adrienne Arsht Center developed Miami-Dade’s first regional awards program connected to the national Jimmy Awards in New York.
High school musicals are now evaluated by theater professionals, and students gain access to Broadway master classes, workshops, and a final showcase at the Knight Concert Hall. Two standout performers will represent Miami-Dade at the Jimmy Awards, giving local talent a pathway to national recognition.
“This isn’t just about awards,” said Jairo Ontiveros, the Arsht Center’s director of education. “It’s about giving students the tools, support, and inspiration they need to grow as artists.”
As Miami-Dade celebrates the arts this March, programs like Young Talent Big Dreams and The Arshties show how the performing arts ignite young imaginations, and how The Children’s Trust continues to champion opportunities that help children thrive both onstage and beyond.