PROGRAMS

teen apprentice program 2025/26

(Open to Academy and Non-Academy Students)
Open to students interested in technical areas of the industry, this program will meet monthly for professional industry engagements in areas such as light design, scenic design, sound design, stage management, company management, casting, costume design, directing, and more. Additionally, each accepted student will have the opportunity for mentorship by an industry professional at TUTS.

TOMMY TUNE AWARDS

The Tommy Tune Awards are the city’s biggest night for high school musical theatre — a high-energy celebration spotlighting the most talented student performers, designers, and directors in the region. Created and produced by Theatre Under The Stars, this electrifying ceremony honors excellence on and off the stage, with showstopping performances and unforgettable moments inspired by the legacy of Broadway legend Tommy Tune, a Houston native.

At its core, the Tommy Tune Awards (TTA) are about more than just applause — they’re about building a thriving, connected community through musical theatre. Each year, dozens of Houston-area high schools participate in this dynamic program that uplifts excellence in performance, production, and creativity.  

Education

Every role — whether onstage or behind the scenes — is an opportunity for growth. Theatre encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and self-confidence, nurturing lifelong learners and leaders in every student it touches.  

Artistry

Creativity lives here. The Tommy Tune Awards provide a platform for students and educators to showcase their artistic vision, take bold risks, and reflect the spirit of storytelling through performance and design. It’s a space to shine — individually and as a team.  

Community

We believe theatre is a shared experience. Through collaboration and celebration, the TTA brings together schools, families, and audiences to support the next generation of artists. This is about more than a single production — it’s about building a future for Houston’s cultural landscape.  

Learn more about the Tommy Tune Awards here.

cREATIVE pROGRAMMING

TUTS Teaching Artists work with participants from Houston-area non-profits to tailor programming that meets the needs of their communities, whether that’s teaching a movement class at a senior center or using music to help children engage in learning. Community partners include New Hope, Dress for Success, FLAS, Combined Arms, Children’s Memorial Hermann Foundation, University of Houston, and more. If your organization is interested in working with us, please reach out to Adavion Wayne.