Turning the Wheel Productions secures a $10,000 NEA grant to engage underserved youth in Wilmington, NC, through arts and performance projects.

Turning the Wheel Productions, Inc. is thrilled to announce receiving a $10,000 Challenge America award from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). This prestigious grant will support a week-long residency involving five schools and the community production of “Stardust and Water” in Wilmington, NC.

Alana Shaw, Founder and Director of Turning the Wheel, expressed gratitude, stating, “We are deeply honored to have our 35 years of work with underserved youth recognized by the NEA. This award boosts our energy and commitment to continue bringing creative expression and new possibilities to young people and their communities.”

NEA Chair Maria Rosario Jackson, PhD, highlighted the importance of such projects, saying, “The NEA is proud to support organizations and artists shaping our country’s vibrant arts sector. It is inspiring to see projects like Turning the Wheel’s Community Performance Project.”

As part of the fiscal year 2025 grants, the NEA will distribute 272 Challenge America awards nationwide, totaling $2,720,000. During this project, Turning the Wheel will collaborate with five Wilmington schools, engaging underserved youth in a unique curriculum encompassing dance, rhythm, theater, movement, prose, poetry, visual arts, and performance.

These students will participate in the “Stardust and Water” Community Performance Project, a professional showcase supported by seven touring artists.

Turning the Wheel aims to activate the gifts of youth and teens within the community, inspire creative expression, foster connections, enhance visibility, and build artistic and personal confidence.

For more information, visit Turning the Wheel Productions, Inc. or contact Perry Smith at perry@turningthewheel.org or 910-520-7792.