Created from the remnants of the City of Hampton’s Performing and Creative Arts Center, Hampton Arts adopted the Education department in 2018. The purpose of the program was to develop and spread awareness of artistic programs in the community. Since then it has grown exponentially and has been a great opportunity for Hampton Roads families to learn visual and performing arts in a fun, innovative way, all while providing opportunities for unique cultural awareness.
Today, Hampton Arts Education (HAE) offers various programs held at The American Theatre and The Charles H. Taylor Visual Arts Center. Kristie Schuh, Education Manager, has created a welcoming space for exciting one-of-a-kind shows including The Jungle Book, KIDS, as well as other Fall Classes and Workshops like Introduction to Directing, It’s My Line!, and “G.O.A.T.” Acting.
“G.O.A.T.” Acting
- Program Dates: October 3 – November 7, 2023
- Participants: 13 – 17 or 8th grade – 12th grade
- Program Meets: Tuesdays from 6 pm – 7:30 pm
It’s My Line! Improv Workshop
- Program Date: Sunday, Oct 8
- Participants: 18+
- Program Meets: 1 pm – 3 pm
Dance Workshop with Phoebus High School Dance Team
- Program Date: Saturday, Nov 11
- Participants: Kindergarten through 8th grade
- Program Meets: 9 am – 3 pm
Introduction to Directing with Andrew Bryce
- Program Date: Saturday, Nov 18
- Participants: 18+
- Program Meets: 10am-noon
Along with classes and workshops, HAE offers a multitude of performances and activities that showcase cultural diversity for the entire family. The multilingual band Pink Martini featuring China Forbes and El Dia De Los Muertos: Day of the Dead festival (both on October 28), are examples of recognizing and celebrating unique cultural backgrounds.
In tandem with their free El Dia De Los Muertos event at The Charles H. Taylor Visual Arts Center, HAE is hosting an Alebrije Art Contest open to all ages. Artists can use any materials they would like to create a 3-dimentional Alebrije using mixed media sculptures of mythical creatures. (At least one feature of the Alebrije must be 3-dimentional.) Deadline to submit is Saturday October 21st at 10 am.
HAE offers other programs including On TAP at The American, a space where artists and invited guests speak with the audience about their show in a more personal setting and the Armed Service Arts Partnership, a program that gets military members and veterans involved in the arts!
Arts in Education is an important aspect in schools and communities because it allows students and adults a way to explore creative outlets and allows them to discover themselves using artistic expression. In keeping with the trend of arts education, 91% of Americans believe that the arts are a vital piece to providing a well-rounded education for K-12 students. (Americans for the Arts)
The Hampton Arts Education department is home to an array of programs, classes, and performances that expose the Hampton Roads community to new and exciting opportunities. For more information about upcoming shows at The American Theatre, free exhibitions at The Charles H. Taylor Visual Arts Center, or HAE program details, please visit hamptonarts.org.
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