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Opera Grand Rapids announces 1st Children's Educational Program
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Opera Grand Rapids Announces
First Children’s Educational Program at the Betty Van Andel Opera Center
GRAND RAPIDS – Opera Grand Rapids is proud to announce its first school-aged opera program at the Betty Van Andel Opera Center. The Children’s Opera Studio is one of a handful of exciting educational programs being offered by the professional opera company this winter.
“Opera Grand Rapids is really pleased to introduce the Children’s Opera Workshop. It is a wonderful means to introduce young people and their parents to the beautiful art of opera,” said Michael Havlicek, Opera Grand Rapids Executive Director.
“This workshop provides an opportunity to use the Betty Van Andel Opera Center for more than just rehearsals for our main-stage productions. The Children’s Opera Studio is a first step in Opera Grand Rapids’ “Opera in the Community,” explained Havlicek. “Which is part of the Company’s “Next Act Strategic Plan.” A multi-year plan that aims to strengthen Opera Grand Rapids’ role in the community, and build new audiences for the art of opera.”
The 2012 Children’s Opera Workshop, a vocal and stagecraft program for children ages 6 to 12, will take place from 9:30am to 12noon on Saturdays from January 21 – February 25, at the Betty Van Andel Opera Center.
Children discover avenues of creativity and self-expression through singing, dancing, and acting. In the Children’s Opera Studio, imaginations will be sparked as children experience the fantasy world of opera.
In the studio, taught by veteran opera performers and music instructors Bill and Hollis Bokhout, children will learn to sing in a group and as a soloist. The program will also include dancing, acting and stagecraft. Each class will include physical and vocal warm-ups, singing and instruction on the language of the theatre. The Studio will culminate in an informal performance presented for parents and friends, at the Betty Van Andel Opera Center.
Registration information for the program can be found under “Education” on the Opera Grand Rapids website, www.operagr.com <http://www.operagr.com> . Tuition for the program is $180 per student. Some scholarship opportunities are also available. For details, call 616.451.2741. Registration for the Workshop has been extended until the beginning of the program on January 21.
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