ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – For many students across New Mexico, attending a Broadway production is an experience they could only dream of—until now.
Through a combination of philanthropy, outreach, and a deep commitment to arts education, Popejoy Hall has made that dream a reality for hundreds of students, from rural communities to urban districts. From Highland High in Albuquerque to Grants High in rural Cibola County.
Popejoy Hall, the premier performing arts venue in the state, has been expanding its educational programs to ensure that students—regardless of their financial background— can experience the magic of live theater. With initiatives like Broadway for Teens and Broadway Bridges Albuquerque, Popejoy is connecting students from schools across the state to professional, world-class performances.
For educators like Stephen Eiland, a drama teacher at Highland High School in Albuquerque, the impact of these programs is profound. His students, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds, will attend a performance of Les Misérables through the Broadway Bridges initiative. “These are things that my students can't normally see without some sort of reduced cost,” Eiland said. “This is an awesome opportunity for them to experience culture that would otherwise be out of reach.”
But Popejoy’s reach extends far beyond Albuquerque. From the small City of Grants, where high school drama students will soon attend a Broadway performance of Clue, to Wagon Mound, where every student in the entire school was given a ticket to see a Broadway show, Popejoy is making the performing arts accessible statewide.
The Heart of the Program
Both Broadway for Teens and Broadway Bridges Albuquerque are entirely funded by philanthropy— a testament to the generosity of arts supporters across New Mexico.
“Our hope is that these programs provide students with inspiring experiences that they will remember for the rest of their lives,” said Fabiana Borghese Tabeling, Director of Popejoy Hall. “And none of it would be possible without the philanthropic support of the community.”
Donors contribute funds to cover ticket costs, transportation, and even meals for students, ensuring that economic barriers do not prevent young people from engaging with the arts. Many supporters believe that exposure to theater fosters academic curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking skills, making it a worthwhile investment in the future of New Mexico’s youth.
According to Maryellen Missik-Tow, Development Director at Popejoy Hall, supporting students is about more than just a night at the theater. “We want students to see their potential— whether it’s in theater, academics, or another area of interest. Philanthropy makes that moment happen.”
Eiland, who teaches improv and fine arts, believes the trip to see Les Misérables will be eyeopening for his students— both culturally and academically. “They’ll experience the production in a world-class venue, but they’ll also be seeing a part of history that they normally don’t get taught in depth,” he explained. “We’ll incorporate what they see on stage into our history lessons.”
For his students, some of whom are on the autism spectrum, the trip will also be a lesson in social-emotional learning. “It’s a test for them—how to sit through a full-length performance, how to handle an intermission, and how to respond appropriately to different moments in the show,” Eiland said. “It’s more than just entertainment; it’s a learning experience.”
A Growing Initiative for All of New Mexico
Popejoy Hall’s initiatives have already provided over 870 students from 14 high schools with free or discounted Broadway tickets in the past three seasons.
What started as an outreach effort for Albuquerque schools has expanded across the state, ensuring that even students from small or rural districts have access to these opportunities.
And educators are taking note.
Eiland is working to expand drama and improv opportunities within Albuquerque Public Schools, while Grants High School drama teacher Anissa Shaver has already implemented Broadway for Teens as a yearly letterwriting tradition for her students, hoping they will continue to receive access to performances.
“There was a time when programs like these didn’t exist for high school students,” Borghese Tabeling said. “Now, thanks to our donors and supporters, we are opening doors for students all across New Mexico.”
As Popejoy Hall continues to grow its outreach, its message remains the same—the arts are for everyone, no matter where you live or what your background may be.
To support Popejoy Hall’s Broadway for Teens or Broadway Bridges programs, visit www.popejoypresents.co m/education-outreach.