Deadline Near for Applications for Jim Stone Scholarship

Here's a cause that's near and dear to my heart: the Jim Stone Scholarship. It was created by the First Stage Theatre Company about seven years ago to honor a wonderful guy (and a heck of an actor) who was so supportive to young actors.

It's also designed to offer some financial assistance to young performers - "veterans" of First Stage shows - as they go off to college. Here's the press release that announces the upcoming deadline for entries - if you know of any seniors who are heading off to college and will be studying some branch of the performing arts, let them know about this:

The First Stage Theatre Company is still accepting applications for its annual Jim Stone Scholarship.

First Stage sponsors the scholarship to honor the memory of Jim Stone, a longtime supporter of the arts and mentor to local children in the performing arts. A $250 scholarship is available for entering freshmen or current full-time students who are studying dramatic or performing arts at a college, university or certified school of the performing arts.

The scholarship may be renewed each year for a total of four years. Three previous winners are eligible to renew their scholarships this year.

The deadline for entries is Monday, August 18, 2008.

Applicants must have been involved with at least one First Stage Theatre Company (or Musical Arts Guild - Children's Theatre) show, either on-stage (as a performer) or off-stage (as a member of the tech crew). Applicants must send a transcript of their last year's schooling, a list of the shows they've been in and a short essay (no more than 300 words) on why the applicant is planning to study dramatic or performing arts.

Applications should be sent to First Stage Scholarships, c/o Jim Lamp, P.O. Box 2488, Huntington, WV 25725.