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Scholarships

NCTC awards two scholarships in alternating years: the Constance Welsh Theatre Scholarship, and the William Rackley Undergraduate Theatre Scholarship, which supports undergraduates studying in the field of theatre/drama. NCTC also awards scholarships in connection with the NCTC High School Play Festival and NCTC College Day. The Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC) also offers several college scholarships.

Please consider a donation to support NCTC scholarships and other education programs. Make a one-time donation or set up a recurring pledge. We appreciate any level of support!

2025 Constance Welsh Theatre Scholarship

Congratulations Kirra Hough!

Kirra is studying Theatre Education at Greensboro College. 

“I would not be where I am today without NCTC, from finding me my perfect school at College Day my senior year, and now receiving this scholarship that will help me continue to attend a school with a department which holds people I love, opportunities for me to lead, and the ability to create and grow every day. I am immensely grateful for this honor!”

2026 NCTC William Rackley Undergraduate Theatre Scholarship

The William Rackley Undergraduate Theatre Scholarship was established to support undergraduate study in the field of drama/theatre.

The scholarship is an unrestricted award of up to $3,000.

The scholarship will be awarded a rising college junior or senior (for the 2026-27 academic year), who meets all of the following criteria:

  • Is enrolled as a full-time student at a college or university in North Carolina.
  • Is pursuing a major in a drama/theatre program.
  • Is also a graduate of a North Carolina high school.

Successful applicants will have demonstrated a high degree of academic achievement, as well as a commitment to and potential for success in their field. Priority will be given to students with a GPA of 3.25 or higher. Applications will open Monday, February 2. The deadline to apply is Sunday, April 12.

Applications will be reviewed by a committee from the NCTC Board of Directors and must include:

  • Application form
  • Personal statement (max. 500 words) explaining why the applicant is deserving of the scholarship, and what receiving the scholarship would mean to them. Must be uploaded with application.
  • Letter of recommendation from a professor, director, youth leader, or other appropriate mentor that can speak to the applicant’s character, as well as their work in theatre. Must be uploaded with application.
  • The deadline to apply is Sunday, April 12, 2026.
  • Applicants will be notified by May 1 if selected for the award.

About Constance Welsh

Both the NCTC Constance Welsh Theatre Scholarship and the NCTC Constance Welsh Theatre for Youth Award are named in honor of artist and teacher Constance (Connie) Welsh. Connie founded the Tarradiddle Players (now the professional touring company at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte), and the Davidson Community Players, while encouraging the creation of Charlotte Repertory Theatre and other companies. Connie inspired many artists and theatres that fondly remember her tireless support and enthusiastic participation.