The Miranda Family Fund will provide support for scholarships for National Theater Institute (NTI) students at the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center.

The fund established by Lin-Manuel Miranda, an O'Neill alum who went on to create "Hamilton," is supporting scholarships to further the inclusion of artists of color across all disciplines of theater in NTI.

NTI boasts six semester-long programs offering students a springboard to the professional world. Founded in 1970, NTI offers credit-earning theater intensives taught by industry professionals and master teachers that provide comprehensive training to actors, singers, directors, dancers, designers, playwrights and composers.

Miranda's first professional production was at the O'Neill's National Music Theater Conference with "In The Heights" in 2005. In a statement, he said, “My time at the O’Neill was challenging and formative. The work we did there was instrumental in the development of 'In The Heights.' The long days and nights immersed in the musical, alongside the cast and creative team, was a thrilling first for me in that kind of environment. I want as many emerging artists as possible to enjoy that experience. My family and I are excited to be able to partner with the O’Neill to help make that happen for more talented artists of color who are creating new work.”

NTI Artistic Director Rachel Jett said, “Lin-Manuel Miranda’s contribution to theater’s artistry, relevance, and excellence inspires all of us. We see the influence of his artistry everyday in our classrooms. The Miranda Family Fund’s belief in the future of theater with this gift helps us ensure that NTI’s unique multi-disciplinary training is available to everyone and that our ensembles represent the diverse voices that make this art form and this country so unique and wonderful.”

The O’Neill works to ensure access and opportunity for NTI students, regardless of race, gender, or economic circumstance. Varying levels of tuition assistance are awarded each semester through the generosity of individuals and foundations.