The Backstage Pass Project
Opening doors for young creatives to step into the spotlight.
Everybody deserves a backstage pass.
We connect youth to live events, mentorship, and hands-on experiences that build confidence, community, and career pathways.
Popup events
Dates drop without warning
Locations revealed about one week in advance.
Follow along for surprise popups, limited 10-minute open mic slots, and community moments that go fast.
Get notifiedPopup events
We host intimate, high-impact gatherings throughout the year. Each event is designed to connect youth with mentors and new creative experiences.
Next popup open mic
Dates and locations drop about one week in advance on Instagram.
Limited 10-minute slots. Once they are live, booking opens right away.
Popup experiences
We reveal each location right before the event.
Follow along for the full lineup and partner announcements.
Last-minute openings
Openings go fast and are posted in real time.
Book your slot the moment it appears on the calendar.
Our mission
We seek to empower underprivileged youth by giving them access to creativity, music, instruments, and therapy. We believe that music has the power to inspire, heal, and unite members of a community from all walks of life. The Backstage Pass Project exists to open doors so kids who might never have the chance to hold a guitar, write a song, or sit front row at a concert can discover their own rhythm and voice — because when a young person finds their sound, they find themselves.
Vision
We envision a world where music is accessible to every young person and serves as a tool for personal growth, emotional wellness, and community connection.
Community
Through inclusive programming and youth-driven events, we build a creative ecosystem that inspires long-term confidence, belonging, and opportunity.
What makes us different
We don’t just teach music — we create experiences, and we are youth-led and created. Concerts, open-mic nights, workshops, school partnerships, and hands-on projects let youth step into the spotlight, feel valued, and connect with peers.
Core values
Our work is guided by five values that show up in every program.
Access
Every young person deserves the chance to experience music — no exceptions.
Creativity
We encourage artistic freedom, experimentation, and self-expression.
Opportunity
We create pathways for youth to explore music, develop skills, and access meaningful experiences that can shape their futures.
Empowerment
We lift up youth voices and give them platforms to succeed.
Community
Music brings people together, and so do we.
Healing
We believe in the emotional and restorative power of music.
Why music matters
Music is not just entertainment; it is energy, emotion, and expression that helps young people process trauma, build confidence, and connect in ways words cannot.
Stronger learning
Youth engaged in music show better memory, stronger language skills, improved focus, and higher academic outcomes.
Social & emotional growth
Music builds collaboration, discipline, confidence, and emotional regulation, leading to stronger peer connections and communication skills.
Health & resilience
Regular engagement reduces stress, supports mood, and offers a healthy outlet for processing emotions and building resilience.
What we do
We expose and introduce underprivileged youth to the arts through community programs, workshops, and concerts, creating spaces where young people can explore their creativity, connect with others, and heal through sound and expression.
Music therapy sessions
Guided programs that use sound and rhythm for emotional healing and self-expression.
Instrument donation drives
Collecting and distributing gently used instruments to kids who cannot afford them.
Workshops & creative labs
Hands-on experiences with local musicians, producers, and artists.
Community concerts
Bringing youth, schools, and performers together to share the stage and the story.
Our story
What started as a small movement in Cleveland is growing into a vision for a connected network of musicians, schools, and communities united by the transformative power of music. We have seen the spark in kids who hit their first chord or hear live music for the first time. The Backstage Pass Project is led by co-board directors Casie Baker, Chase Takaoka, and Colson Baker — three people from different worlds who share one belief: music saves lives.
Our progress so far
Even as a new organization, our momentum is undeniable.
Community events
We began organizing our first community music events and workshops.
Partner interest
We have connected with schools and artists interested in long-term programming.
Nonprofit foundation
We are establishing the organization with clear structure and leadership.
Our vision
We envision a world where creativity is not a privilege — it is a pathway. The Backstage Pass Project will grow into an international network that unites schools, artists, and communities across borders, from Cleveland to the world, from classrooms to concert halls. Through music, we aim to make an impact that lasts far beyond the stage.
Why partner with us
By partnering with The Backstage Pass Project, you invest in real lives and real stories through authentic, meaningful experiences.
Creativity & inclusion
Promote creativity, inclusion, and emotional wellness in underserved communities.
Community reach
Connect with youth and families whose stories often go unheard.
Positive visibility
Gain positive visibility through concerts, media coverage, and collaborations.
Ways to support
We are seeking sponsors and partners to help us expand our reach and launch our next phase of programs.
Fund programs
Support workshops, therapy sessions, and local events for youth.
Donate instruments
Provide instruments, recording equipment, or studio time.
Share opportunities
Offer concert tickets or performance opportunities through partnerships.
Sponsor events
Support events, creative residencies, or mentorship programs.
Collaborate
We welcome collaborations from local businesses to global brands.
Join the movement
The Backstage Pass Project is just getting started. With your support, we can expand faster, reach farther, and build a legacy of creativity and compassion — giving every young person their backstage pass.
Sign up for a popup event
Reserve a 10-minute open mic slot on popup days only. Select your date, time, and location in the booking calendar below.
New popup dates are posted on Instagram first. Check back for openings.
If the calendar does not load, book directly at calendly.com/backstagepassproject/10 .
We will never share your information. You can also reach us directly at support@backstagepassproject.org.
Donate
Your donation helps us provide instruments, creative workshops, youth performances, and music-based wellness programs — giving every young person the chance to learn, create, and shine.
Make a one-time gift
Every contribution helps us keep events free and welcoming.
Become a monthly supporter
Join our sustaining donors and build year-round opportunity.
Let’s connect
Want to partner, volunteer, or invite us to your event? Reach out and we will follow up within two business days.
Social
@thebackstagepassproject