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Observational Drawing and Arts Integration

Observational Drawing and Arts Integration will provide teachers with strategies for using observational drawing and art critique to support learning across content areas. Observational drawing fosters higher-order thinking skills—such as analysis, synthesis, and evaluation—enhancing academic success. Educators will explore how hands-on observational drawing methods intersect with arts integration, combining visual art with other disciplines. Historic […]

Shakespeare in Song

Text from Shakespeare’s masterpieces are transformed into fresh and dynamic songs that have audiences singing along in sheer delight! Students will have an interactive and engaging experience that brings music & poetry together in a unique way. Award-winning composer/pianist Daniel Kelly and a powerhouse jazz vocalist will engage students as they explore the writings of […]

A Taste of Mosaic

In this workshop, students will learn a little bit about the history of mosaics and its importance in telling the stories of past civilizations. After learning about the history, students will participate in a hands-on experience of creating a small “Picassiette” style of mosaic using a variety of ceramic and glass tile. The resulting work […]

Black Scientists & the Arts

Black Scientists & the Arts centers the magic of becoming a Creative Scientist using all of your senses to explore. Each program introduces students to a Black Scientist (Past/Present) and their contribution to the world through historical artifacts, science experiments, and creative projects. By including an hands-on art activity during each lesson, students have the […]

Modular Origami Suncatchers

This STEAM focused workshop gives students hands-on experience with modular Origami, by having them fold multiple simple Origami pieces, that when assembled form a beautiful 8 or 10 point star. The special paper used in the program is translucent, and when hung in a sunny window will reveal more complex geometric shapes and designs within […]

Speak Up! Assembly

Speak Up! uses the percussive dance styles of tap dance, stepping, and body percussion to narrate iconic moments of John Lewis’ legacy. The program highlights the life of John Lewis, the 1960 Lunch Counter Sit-ins, the 1961 Freedom Riders, and the 1965 Selma to Montgomery March. This educational performance assists in preserving Black History and […]

American Dance: From Africa to Broadway

Two versatile dancers the OKRA Dance Company take you on a cultural tour through three centuries of American history to explore how the combination of migration, culture and communication created the popular American theater and stage dances we know today. From European classical court and folk dances and African plantation narratives, to vaudeville, tap, the […]

No Mystery in Black History!

This interactive program is filled with story, rhythm, history, and song. Featuring a call and response song followed by “An African Drum Story,” Queen Nur introduces various drums from West Africa and describes their communal importance. Engagement continues with Black History in the U.S. through freedom stories, civil rights chants, poetry, music and empowerment tales. […]