Hillsboro Youth Performance Ensemble (or HYPE) is Bag&Baggage’s all-new youth theatre and professional development program. This is a 6-month artistic training course for students in Washington County to learn from and work alongside performing arts professionals at no cost to them or their families.
This includes:
- Training in ensemble theatre creation practices—culminating in the students devising their own original show
- Opportunities for mentorships with B&B staff and resident artists
- Immersion within practical experience in performance, technical, design, and administrative capacities
Working in every facet of the organization, students learn standards of professionalism while building their resumes and forging connections within the broader theater community. Our program offers young theatre artists a bridge between their education and the world of professional theatre, developing each individual’s skills by working alongside world-class designers, administrators, directors, and other experts.
2026 Ensemble
YOU MAY APPLY FOR HYPE IF YOU ARE...
- interested in learning more about careers in theater production and creating your own show
- currently between the ages of 13-18
- a student in Washington County
- available to attend (with a parent/guardian) HYPE Orientation on Sat. Feb. 14 at noon
- You are able to commit to the entire program:
- Every Saturday: Feb. 14, 2026-July 26, 2026 | noon-2:30pm
- Tech Rehearsals: July 13, 14, 15 & 16 | 6-9 pm
- Performances: July 17 & 18 | 6:30 pm call time (7:30 pm show)
- Strike: following the last show as needed
- To complete your application, you will need contact info for yourself and your guardian, a letter of recommendation from an adult outside of your family, and a letter of interest.
Applications for the 2026 ensemble have now closed and the ensemble has been selected! Thanks to everyone who applied!
2026 HYPE SHOWCASE
This year's HYPE showcase will happen on July 17 & 18, 2026. The 2026 cohort of students, plus participating members from last year's HYPE cohort, will work together to devise and perform a full-length piece, complete with lights, costumes, and set design also by students. Watch this space for more details about the upcoming show!