The primary goal of Arts Education at City Opera is to connect learners of all ages to the performing arts by offering a range of programs suited to a variety of learner needs. In so doing, it is our hope that participants of every age will find for themselves that participation in the arts enriches, enhances and broadens one's life.
Programs are frequently presented in close collaboration with participating arts organizations, including the Wharton Center for Performing Arts and other area arts organizations, along with local educators to ensure they meet the needs of the community.
Arts Education Program Forms
Parent/Guardian Consent Form
Permission for Early/Alternative Release
Volunteer Policy Agreement
Guest Artist Policy Agreement
Take It From The Top
Take It From The Top is a series of interactive workshops taught by working Broadway professionals who have a passion for providing training and perspective for students interested in pursuing a professional career in musical theatre as well as those just looking to have fun with performing arts.
Young Playwrights Festival
Michigan high school students are invited to write and submit one-act scripts to a juried competition. Six finalists are assigned a theatre professional who mentors the student playwright with revising their play. Each finalist receives a cash award and sees their play come to life, directed and performed by Traverse City area thespians.
Family at City Opera House
Family at City Opera House programming connects unique live performances with young students and families in the community to create high quality arts learning and engagement experiences. City Opera House strives to provide opportunities for learning and discovery by connecting multiple generations to art, music and theatre.
Family at City Opera House is a commitment to support and advance the economic and cultural life of northern Michigan by bringing the community together to share in and celebrate the magic of the performing arts.
Artist Residencies
Artist residencies serve as a cornerstone of arts education efforts. An artist-in-residence is a professional performer with a dual role as a "teaching artist." During a multiday stay in our community, an artist-in-residence shares his or her expertise and insights on creativity during close interaction with youth and adult learners.
Help children attend shows at City Opera House. Seats 4 Kids makes it possible for economically disadvantaged children and their parent or guardian to attend shows and concerts at City Opera House free of charge. Area youth and family service agencies help identify young people who may benefit from the program. Seats 4 Kids is funded by gifts from people in the community.
Proceeds from C is for City Opera House Coloring Book support Seats 4 Kids.
Visual Arts
City Opera House exhibits regional visual artists year round in the City Opera House Towsley lobby. This space provides a wonderful opportunity for community arts organizations and individuals to showcase their work and provides patrons with interesting rotating exhibits throughout the year.
Support Arts Education
Community support allows northern Michigan young people to have access to dynamic and horizon-expanding arts education programs through City Opera House. Your gift helps bring these programs within reach of more young people in our community.
With additional support from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and National Endowment for the Arts.