Toledo Opera believes deeply in
the power of the arts. The difference between arts and
entertainment is that entertainment gives you a predictable
pleasure that you indulge and enjoy, but you don't tend
to emerge a different person. But art always allows at
least the possibility of transformation, of an inner realization.
The arts must be part of every American child's education,
if as a society we hope to continue our strong and varied
artistic legacy.
Experiences in the arts help develop
certain basic human skills that are essential to all people.
Opera provides an extremely effective learning opportunity,
which engages students' emotions in their studies, adding
immediacy to History, Literature and other studies. Opera
is also the fastest growing performing art in the United
States and the one that is experiencing growth among young
people.
In 1986, Toledo Opera incorporated
educational programs to enhance its ability to serve the
needs of the community. Toledo Opera continues to expand
its acclaimed Education and Outreach program which has
already touched the lives of over 500,000 young people
through performances and participatory workshops in schools
and communities throughout our region.
Each year, Toledo
Opera reaches over 30,000 children, young adults and families
through the programs outlined in this section. |
