Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre is very proud of our education outreach program Opera by Children, which has provided training for teachers and in-class mentoring for over 65,000 children to create their own operas in a classroom setting.
The Opera by Children program is perhaps best described in the words of a teacher:
"I cannot imagine a school without Opera - literally. What a wonderful opportunity for children to create and express themselves while expanding grade level curriculum. In following the natural "Opera By Children" process, the school year closes with a finished work of art and final performance. It is amazing how that one performance reflects the powerful sense of classroom community that the year long experience helped to develop. I love how students across the board feel success and inclusion as they proudly fulfill their special role, whatever it may be. As a teacher, I have grown personally through the opera experience. It provides a vehicle in which I can come to know my students on a more complex level. Opera allows me to truly see and understand what is in the heart of each child. I can use that understanding to reach them academically."
Cheryl Lund, Coalville, Utah
Teachers throughout Utah and many western states are using this unique tool to increase unity, self discovery and enthusiasm for learning in their classrooms.
There is no cost to Utah teachers as their expenses are covered by generous state grants. They need only attend an Opera by Children training workshop and are then eligible for participation in the full year-long program.
Opera by Children is pleased to be part of POPS (Professional Outreach Programs in the Schools) sponsored by the Utah State Office of Education.
Final POPS 2011 - 2012 Annual Report July 2, 2012
