OPERA OUTREACH
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L.A. Opera Student Outreach program is a hit with young teenagers. |
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As you can see from our story, the L.A.
Opera Student Outreach program is a hit with young people who
have never been to the Music Center, much less to an opera.
But the students don't just show up. Much of the program's
success is due to the extensive teacher and student preparation
that precedes the performance.
Teachers interested in having their classes
attend an opera have to apply. Then there is a mandatory meeting
between teachers and Music Center outreach staff where ideas and
needs are exchanged. Then the teachers are given extensive materials
on the particular opera their students will attend, including DVD's
and CD's. The students learn about the opera's plot, characters
and composer. Then volunteers from the Music Center visit the
classrooms to tell the students what a special day it will be,
and answer any questions they may have about what to expect.
When all is said and done you can understand
why Stacy Brightman, Director of Education and Community Programs,
says "They come as one of the most prepared audiences you're ever
going to see in an opera house."
The Opera Outreach program is not inexpensive.
The free performances for 3000 students cost about $400,000 and
include the full cast, orchestral musicians and stage hands. The
costs are covered by donors and opera lovers who feel passionate
about opera, and want to make the experience available to children
who have never had the experience.
The L.A. Opera also offers college students discount
tickets and other special offers when they register on the website. And
there are Saturday morning events for families. For more information
on these programs and the student outreach program you can go to their
website at: www.losangelesopera.com
Read the transcript
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