(NEW YORK, NY) -- Launching in July 2025, Mean Girls co-directors Arturo Perez Jr. and Samantha Jayne will bring their innovative, two-week acting camp to New York City for the first time. THE YES BUS ACTING CAMP offers high school students across the Tri-state a chance to receive mentorship from industry professionals, participate in acting and writing seminars, and showcase their talents, all at no cost. This camp aims to empower and inspire the next generation of performers, with a special emphasis on supporting youth from underserved communities. Applicants from New York and New Jersey can apply with a 1-minute monologue by June 15, 2025.
Arturo and Samantha, who are passionate about creating accessible arts opportunities, founded THE YES BUS ACTING CAMP with the goal of providing young artists, particularly those from immigrant and underserved communities, with the confidence, knowledge, and tools they might not have had access to otherwise. This initiative is particularly crucial in this current historical moment when immigrants’ rights, freedom of expression, and funding for the arts and culture are all under severe attack. Arturo and Samantha believe that the performing arts are not a luxury but rather an integral part of the human experience that should be accessible to all people, especially children.
The program officially launched in Los Angeles and its debut in New York City is a major step in ensuring that all students have an equal shot at pursuing their dreams in acting. The camp is entirely free of charge, covering professional headshots, all resources, and meals. The only responsibility for students is arranging transportation to the camp’s location in Midtown Manhattan, which is well-connected by public transit, including train and bus options. They are calling on all high school principals, English and Drama teachers to inform their students of this opportunity for artistic expression, confidence, and community.
“We want to give young artists, especially those who might not otherwise have the opportunity, the chance to step into their power and pursue their passion for acting,” said Samantha. “This camp is more than just learning to act, it’s about giving them the confidence and support they need to believe in themselves and their potential,” added Arturo.
Students who are interested in participating in this incredible opportunity can apply online at https://www.theyesbus.com/camp. The deadline to apply is June 15, 2025, and the exact location of the camp in Midtown Manhattan will be disclosed to selected students.
Founded by Mean Girls co-directors Arturo Perez Jr. and Samantha Jayne, THE YES BUS ACTING CAMP is a free acting camp that aims to provide mentorship, skill-building workshops, and a platform for aspiring young performers, particularly those from underserved and immigrant communities. The program was created to make arts education more accessible and to empower youth to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background or financial situation.
Arturo Perez Jr. and Samantha Jayne bring a wealth of experience in the entertainment industry, having worked on numerous theatrical and film projects that have impacted audiences worldwide. As co-directors of Mean Girls, they are known for their ability to merge powerful storytelling with inclusive casting and creative collaborations. They’ve also been advocates for diversity and representation in the arts, constantly working to open doors for new voices and talent.
