TWIGS

A Message from the TWIGS Director

Dear TWIGS Families,
I hope the summer has treated you well so far. By now you all have received audition results and we thank you for your patience as decisions were made. Every child who showed up has undeniable talent and potential as young creatives.  It is my sincerest hope that your children are celebrated no matter what the letters determine.  I am proud that TWIGS has evolving programs, events and various resources to further connect you with meaningful arts opportunities for your families.On behalf of TWIGS, we hope to build community with you and inspire each other now and into the future. – Peace, Candace Dickens ’06

To ensure that all children in Baltimore City have access to the arts, BSA created TWIGS (To Work In Gaining Skills), a free after-school program for 2nd-8th grade Baltimore City children. The program serves up to 550 students each year.
TWIGS brings students together with professional artists in a multi-year curriculum designed to build understanding and skill in one of five art disciplines: Dance, Music (Vocal or Instrumental), Theatre (Acting or Stage Design & Production), Visual Arts, or Film & Visual Storytelling. Classes run for 20 to 34 weeks during the school year, culminating in year-end student performances, recitals, and exhibitions. TWIGS serves as a stepping stone for admission to the high school or a similar pre-professional art program; each year roughly 50 percent of the incoming freshman class at BSA have been trained through TWIGS.
TWIGS annual report for the 2022-23 school year.

View TWIGS curriculum offerings

Auditions

Applications for TWIGS Auditions for the 2024-25 School Year are now closed. If you have any questions about your application or upcoming auditions, please email TWIGS@bsfa.org.

To view the audition requirements per department, please click here.

TWIGS Brochure

What You’ll Learn

Photograph of Baltimore School for the Arts students

Collaboration

Discipline

Artistry

Upcoming

11/28

Thanksgiving Break

School is closed. Enjoy your long weekend!

11/28
to
11/30

Thanksgiving Break

School is closed. Enjoy your long weekend!

03/06

Expressions ’24: 45 Our Way

Join us at the Schaefer Ballroom on March 6, 8, and 9 for...

03/08

Expressions ’24: 45 Our Way

Join us at the Schaefer Ballroom on March 6, 8, and 9 for...

Visit Events Calendar

Special Programs

In addition to TWIGS, Baltimore School for the Arts reaches thousands of young people through free matinee performances and gallery tours for city schools, as well as special performances for families and children throughout the year.

Learn More

TWIGS Director

Candace Dickens ’06

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Our Staff

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Creating Arts Opportunities for Baltimore's Children