ARTS EDUCATION & OUTREACH - SCHOOL MATINEES - 2009 - 2010

At the Performance Center, we strive to inspire creativity and share the joy that comes from interactive arts experiences with primary school children from throughout the area. Teachers will find links to curriculum in our programs, while students experience their favorite storybooks come to life, explore a world culture or delve into the creative processes of an artistic discipline. We also build on the artistic strengths expressed in the area by offering opportunities to learn from Page Series guest artists in master classes, workshops and lecture/demonstrations.

Events are available on a first-come, first-served basis to groups of 10 or more whose students are of Kindergarten age or older but must be reserved in advance through the Box Office Manager. All seats cost $2 per person (students and chaperones) and payment is due upon arrival. No one will ever be turned away due to an inability to pay, and though schools do not need to pay for students absent the day of the performance we ask that you honor your reserved number to help insure the continued viability of our programming. Schools are asked to limit chaperones to one adult per 10 students when possible. Groups should plan to arrive between 20 and 30 minutes prior to the performance. Most events last 50 to 60 minutes, and offer study guides with pre- and post-performance activities and discussion topics.

To make a reservation, contact the Performance Center Box Office Manager, Jennifer Fanello, by email: jfanello@smumn.edu put SCHOOL MATINEE in the subject line, in the body of the message include the following information:

The following information is needed to make a reservation:

• Name of School
• Contact name, phone number, and email address
• Number of students expected to attend
• Grade level or age range of students (whichever is applicable)
• Number of expected chaperones
• Any needed accessibility services

You will be contacted by email to confirm your school’s participation.
For more information about bringing your school or class to a matinee, e-mail the Performance Center Box Office Manager, Jennifer Fanello, at jfanello@smumn.edu.

Download your copy of the current season Arts Education Activities brochure.

If you prefer to complete a printed reservation form, click here to download (MS Word format).

School matinee productions include:
Buckets and Tap Shoes
FRIDAY • OCT 2, 2009 • 10:00 AM
Virtuoso percussion and extraordinary tapping. 
Since 1997, this unique company of musicians, percussionists, and rhythm tap dancers has astounded audiences, creating intense driving rhythms with 5-gallon buckets, metal cans, barrels, found objects, and tap shoes. Their shows usually begin with no-holds-barred drumming and tapping, mix in original live funk music, add dashes of improvisation, magic tricks and well, one never really knows where it will lead.
Recommended for Grades 5 and above
Artist Website

In The Heart of The Beast Puppet & Mask Theatre • 
Beneath The Surface
FRIDAY • OCT 23, 2009  • 10:00 AM
A circus of wonderment about our relationship to water.
They have been using water, flour, newspaper, paint, and unlimited imagination to tell stories that explore the struggles and celebrations of human existence for over thirty- five years. Beneath The Surface overflows with fun, energy, and imagination offering a great way to introduce children to the issues about water that face our world.
Recommended for Grades 4 and above
Artist Website
Study guide

Underground Railroad Theatre • Are You Ready My Sister?
FRIDAY • JAN 15, 2010  • 10:00 AM
The story of how Harriet Tubman helped free 300 slaves.
This historical adventure story of the “great conductor” of the Underground Railroad, and the Quaker women who helped her bring 300 slaves to freedom features live music based on spirituals of the time, dramatic scenes, and audience participation.  The set, a giant patchwork quilt, unfolds the story; each square of the quilt comes to life with shadow puppets and illuminated scenery.
Recommended for Grades K - 8
Artist website
Study guide

Théâtre Sans Fil • The Hobbit
TUESDAY • FEB 9, 2010 • 10:00 AM
The JRR Tolkien tale of Bilbo Baggins told with large-scale puppets and wonder filled sets.
Théâtre Sans Fil (Theatre without Strings) was last in Winona in 2008 performing Hansel & Gretel. Specializing in giant puppets, initially inspired by the classical technique of Japanese Bunraku theatre, the company successfully unites this style with original and modern set design, lighting, and music. Fantasy, poetry, make-believe, and magic, along with unusual and heroic characters highlight this production of the world-renowned fantasy tale.
Recommended for Grades 3 - 6, but suitable for grades 3 and above
Artist website

SMU Theatre Department  • All’s Well That Ends Well
NEW DATE FRIDAY • APRIL 9• 12:30 PM
Problems do not matter as long as the end result is good.
A Shakespeare play based upon Boccacio’s Decameron. Helena, a handmaiden, is in love with Count Bertram in service to the King of France. She saves the King’s life, weds her love as a reward, and then must teach him to her love her in return. “My friends were poor but honest,” said Helena.
Recommended for Grades 9-12
Click here for more information about Shakespeare.

Minnesota Conservatory of the Arts • Dance Repertory Company
NEW DATE THURSDAY • APRIL 22  • 10:00 AM
Spring Concert
Suitable and appealing for all ages, the annual spring concert by Dance Repertory Company offers a well-rounded dance experience by including a variety of dance styles in its performances. Full of youthful exuberance, effervescent spirit and burgeoning talent, the company upholds high artistic standards and commitment to technique, discipline and fun. From contemporary ballet to tap, and from jazz to hip hop, this annual concert promises delightful choreography performed by an equally delightful company of student dancers.
Recommended for Grades 3 and above.
More information about MCA, click here for details.