FBI Partnership
"Eyes Wide Open" – A Vital Program to Prevent Digital Exploitation
In an age where digital communication is second nature to teenagers, the risks of online exploitation have grown alarmingly. To combat this pressing issue, bergenPAC’s Performing Arts School, in partnership with the FBI Newark Citizens Academy Alumni Association, proudly presents "Eyes Wide Open: A Story Set to Song – Preventing Digital Exploitation"—an innovative, transformative educational program available for schools and organizations both virtually and in person.
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The Urgent Need for Awareness
The statistics are staggering: between 2021 and 2022, sextortion reports surged by 7,200%, with boys aged 13–17 identified as the most vulnerable group. This epidemic has affected 12,600 victims and led to at least 20 tragic suicides. "Eyes Wide Open" addresses these critical issues head-on by educating students and families on how to navigate the digital world safely.
About "Eyes Wide Open"
Written by international recording artist and educator Ashley Tobias [ThatGirlTobi], "Eyes Wide Open" is a compelling educational drama that follows the parallel stories of two teenagers, Emma and Jax, as they face the challenges of online predators, manipulation, and the pressures of digital life. Using the power of storytelling and music, the program educates and empowers students to recognize risks, seek help, and make informed decisions about their online behavior.
What Students Will Learn:
- How to identify and respond to risks in online communication.
- The importance of seeking help when faced with digital exploitation.
- Practical strategies to protect themselves in the digital landscape.
A Call to Action
"Eyes Wide Open" is more than a performance; it’s a movement to safeguard our youth. Through its engaging and thought-provoking format, the program equips students with the tools they need to navigate the digital world safely. It also serves as a wake-up call to parents, educators, and communities to take proactive steps in addressing the growing threats of online exploitation.
About the FBI Newark Citizens Academy Alumni Association The FBI Newark Citizens Academy Alumni Association is a non-profit organization committed to fostering safer communities through education, awareness, and partnership initiatives. For more information, visit [ https://fbinewarkcaaa.org/ ].
Booking Information
Booking Information
We invite schools, organizations, and community groups to bring this essential program to their audiences. For more information, or to discuss booking details, please contact us: Atobias@bergenpac.org | bserico@bergenpac.org
What is the Length of the program?
The Presentation is 45 minutes in length. A 30 minute performance and a 15 minute audience interactive Q & A led by the actors.
Who is the program for?
The program is ideal for:
- Middle & High School students
- School staff and faculty
- Parent/community events
- Mental health & wellness initiatives
- Law enforcement/school partnership events
What topics are covered in the live program?
- Cyberbullying
- Sextortion & online exploitation
- Emotional manipulation
- Mental health impacts
- Prevention strategies
- Empowerment through awareness
- Real-life stories told through performance (Emma & Jax)
Is this program trauma-informed?
Yes. The content is presented in a sensitive, age-appropriate, and trauma-informed way. Mental health resources are shared, and we encourage schools to have support staff available if needed.
Creative Credits
🎤 Creative Team (Live Programming):
● Ashley Tobias – Playwright, Songwriter, Co-Music Producer, Lyricist, Director, Graphic Design
● Alap Momin – Co-Music Producer, Mix-Mastering & Live Performance Engineer
● Mandy Macdonald – Art Director, Texting Animation, Assistant Director
● Hannah Shinder – Stage Manager
🎭 Cast:
● Zack Pascarcello – “Jax”
● Ashley Tobias – “Emma”
● Mandy Macdonald- "Emma's Mom"
● Alap Momin- "Jax's Dad"
🎶 Coming Soon:
The official music video for the program’s empowering anthem, “Reclaim My Name,” filmed on location at Passaic Valley Regional High School.
🎬 Video Credits:
Director of Film/ Cam Op – Jeremy Shinder (Jerebear Films)
AC / Key Grip / B-Camera – Kerry Sitty
B-Roll / BTS – Neal Bennington, Shefik (All Knight Access), Robert Miele
Best Electric – Monica Nowik
Drone Operator – Raina Cagiao
About the Creator
About Ashley Tobias (THATGIRLTOBI)
Ashley Tobias is a dynamic multi-hyphenate performer, educator, and arts advocate whose career spans rock stages, national tours, and transformative educational initiatives. A proud alumna of Montclair State University, Ashley toured the world for over seven years as the powerhouse female vocalist of the internationally acclaimed rock band Gogol Bordello, sharing stages with legends such as Green Day, Aretha Franklin, Nile Rodgers, My Chemical Romance, and more.
Her versatile voice has supported multi-platinum recording artists like Rachel Platten and Andy Grammer, with appearances on national platforms including Good Morning America, Live
with Kelly & Michael, VH1 Live, and performances on iconic stages such as Carnegie Hall and The Kennedy Center.
Ashley’s theatrical credits include the second national and first international tour of American Idiot. Off-Broadway, she’s been featured in Freckleface Strawberry – The Musical, The Ohmies, and the 1st National Tour of Virtually Me with TheaterWorksUSA.
Driven by a deep passion for youth empowerment—and shaped by her own experience growing up as an adoptee—Ashley is the founder and CEO of Bee True To You, an award-winning arts education and musical program for children and families. Focused on anti-bullying, confidence-building, and social-emotional learning, the program has made a powerful impact in schools and theaters nationwide. But she doesn't stop there—Ashley continues to expand her mission through bold new work, including the powerful and timely program Eyes Wide Open, which addresses online exploitation and digital safety through music, storytelling, and live performance.
In 2016, Ashley was honored with the United Nations & Meaningful World’s International Youth Peace Award for her work with youth. She is a voting member of The Recording Academy (GRAMMYs®) and continues to release original music under her artist names THATGIRLTOBI and BTTY the Bee, available on Spotify and all major digital platforms.
Ashley Tobias currently works at bergenPAC’s Performing Arts School as their Education, Outreach and Social Media Manager.