The mission of our ArtReach program is to bring arts experiences to the youth in our community centers and to do so without a cost to participants. The program actively breaks down barriers to participation and gives our students access to quality arts training.
Arts education is a crucial and often overlooked component in youth development, helping students to cultivate confidence, emotional intelligence, self-discipline, and the ability to work collaboratively with others. The program is composed of three pillars: music classes, The Performing Arts in Motion teen program, and theatre workshops and classes. The ArtReach program is made possible by the generous support of the Gobioff Foundation, Friends of Tampa Recreation, and other community partners.
Music
Four, 8-week sessions are offered for teens and youth at select centers throughout the city. Facilitated by the local non-profit, Instruments 4 Life, these classes provide students with basic instruction on the guitar, ukulele, or keyboard. Students also have the opportunity to earn their own instrument by becoming musical mentors. Instruments 4 Life is dedicated to empowering the youth through musical engagement. Each session culminates in a final showcase performance for family and friends.
Teen Program
The Performing Arts in Motion program's mission is to bring arts experiences to the teens in the Stay n' Play and Teens Leading Change programs at no charge to them or their families. Making the arts accessible to all members of the community was a driving force behind the program's creation. Teens visit the Straz Center throughout the year to experience professionally produced theatre, dance, and music performances. In addition, teens also have the opportunity to get hands on through theatre, dance, and music classes, as well as, specialty workshops.
Theatre Workshops
Creative Arts Theatre, facilitates single day and multiple week-long theatre workshops and classes at select community centers throughout Tampa. Topics change frequently. Previous topics have included circus arts, improvisation, acting with a mask, musical theatre, and costume design. Each multi-week session culminates in a showcase for family and friends.
