FTC Awards & Scholarships
Recognizing the hard work of talented individuals in all aspects of theatre is something we're very passionate about at FTC. Every year we are proud to acknowledge these achievements through awards, college scholarships, and celebrating these artists. Upon registration, if you've selected the option for one of your students to audition for a scholarship with FTC, a member of our scholarship selection committee will reach out with details.
Please be advised: FTC scholarships are intended for use at accredited institutions. Other institutions may be considered on a case-by-case basis by FTC's Scholarship Committee and Board of Directors.
The Steve Bayless Musical Theatre Scholarship | $2,000
The Steve Bayless Musical Theatre Scholarship was established for a high school senior entering a university musical theatre program. In 2019, the FTC Board of Directors and Randy Bayless established The Steve Bayless Musical Theatre Scholarship in honor of Steve Bayless, The FTC Executive Director who passed away in June 2019. As a middle and high school music teacher for over 35 years, Steve touched the lives of thousands of students, sharing not just his appreciation for music and theatre but also the values of hard work, confidence, respect, diversity and caring for others. Steve served on the FTC Board for over 20 years, and as Executive Director from 2014 to 2019.
The winning scholarship will be announced at the Closing Ceremonies of the November conference.
ELIGIBILITY
APPLICANTS MUST:
Submit Conference Registration by 5:00 pm on October 2, 2026 (Upon registration, a member of our scholarship selection committee will reach out with details. Applicant must submit all Scholarship Application materials no later than 5:00 pm on October 9, 2026.)
Be a current Florida Theatre Conference member
Be a current high school senior in the State of Florida
Plan to attend an accredited theatre program anywhere in the US
Hold a base cumulative GPA of 3.0 (based on a 4.0 scale)
Be prepared to fill out information regarding contact info, teacher info, parent/guardian, prospective colleges, as well as participation in extra-curricular clubs, awards or honors earned, theatre experience, and other like information.
Answer the following "Essay Question" (not to exceed 1 paragraph): "What are your career goals and objectives, and how will the Steve Bayless Scholarship help you achieve them?"
Provide access to a YouTube or Vimeo link that is less than 90 seconds showcasing their musical theatre selection (Video must include accompaniment, either live or prerecorded. No a cappella submissions will be accepted.)
Provide Headshot and Resume
Provide ONE Letter of Recommendation
(All of the above information will be collected in the Scholarship Application link sent to applicants once we receive their Conference Registration)
Donna White Scholarship for Theatrical Studies | $2,000
In 2020, the FTC board, along with family and friends, established the Donna White Scholarship for Theatrical Studies to assist students interested in studying theatre in higher education. This scholarship is open to students interested in studying acting, directing, stage management, costume, lighting, or scenic design, technical production or playwriting. Donna White was an energetic and talented educator who for decades shared her wide interest in theatrical studies with FTC and Pinellas County students. We are honored to present this $2,000 scholarship in her name to a talented and creative Florida student who aligns with Donna’s vision for strong, committed theatre artistry.
The winning scholarship will be announced at the Closing Ceremonies of the November conference.
ELIGIBILITY
APPLICANTS MUST:
Submit Conference Registration by 5:00 pm on October 2, 2026 (Upon registration, a member of our scholarship selection committee will reach out with details. Applicant must submit all Scholarship Application materials no later than 5:00 pm on October 9, 2026.)
Be a current Florida Theatre Conference member
Be a current high school senior in the State of Florida
Plan to attend an accredited theatre program anywhere in the United States
Hold a base cumulative GPA of 3.0 (based on a 4.0 scale)
Submit only one application for ONE field of interest
Detail experience related to any clubs, awards, theatre experience, etc.
Be prepared to fill out information regarding contact info, teacher info, parent/guardian, prospective colleges, as well as participation in extra-curricular clubs, awards or honors earned, theatre experience, and other like information.
Answer the following "Essay Question" (not to exceed 1 paragraph): "What are your career goals and objectives, and how will the Donna White Scholarship help you achieve them?"
Provide access to a YouTube or Vimeo link that is less than 5 minutes showcasing their work
Provide Headshot and Resume
Provide TWO letters of recommendation
(All of the above information will be collected in the Scholarship Application link sent to applicants once we receive their Conference Registration)
