SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS RECEIVES BANK OF AMERICA GRANT TO FUND FREE WORKSHOPS FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES

Studio D: Arts School for All Abilities

IMAGINE THAT! Series 

Bank of America has awarded Segerstrom Center for the Arts a generous grant to underwrite IMAGINE THAT!, a special three-week virtual program of classes conducted by the Center’s Studio D: Arts School for All Abilities. The school offers an inclusive program primarily for children and young people with cognitive and physical disabilities, but students of all abilities are welcome. The workshops will begin on January 11, 2021, and will be offered in four groups: children ages 4 – 7, youth ages 8 – 12, teens ages 13 – 17, and adults ages 18 and older. All 20 students in each group will participate in these enriching sessions completely free of charge.

IMAGINE THAT!, a special three-week virtual program of classes  by SCFTA

All workshops will be virtual with live and pre-recorded components. The youth classes will focus on creativity, imagination, and social skills building as participants learn lyrics and choreography to “Pure Imagination” from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. The teen/adult classes will focus on self-expression and creative choice-making as participants learn lyrics and choreography to “This is Me” from The Greatest Showman. 

Segerstrom Center President Casey Reitz said, 

“We’re thrilled and grateful to Bank of America for making it possible for us to provide this special IMAGINE THAT! series of classes that will enrich the life experiences of 80 wonderful children and young adults. This partnership enables us to expand our Studio D program and to offer its classes to many new families.”

"Children and young adults with disabilities are among those most impacted from the isolation and disruption of routines brought on by pandemic. Through the virtual series, Segerstrom Center for the Arts is ensuring children with disabilities have access to the arts from the safety of their homes,” said Mark C. Perry,  Executive Vice Chairman of Global Commercial Banking for Bank of America. “The Imagine That! series aligns with Bank of America’s commitment to foster a community that is diverse, inclusive, and empowers people with disabilities.”

One Studio D. parent commented, “After participating in many other virtual classes, I have to let you know yours has been the best. You gave the kids a preview of the following lesson and it was great for them to be ready. You approached new terms in such a simple but meaningful way for them to understand. Lastly, the material provided was inviting and had an active approach to practice the lesson. Amazing program!”

Kathy Tiquia, another parent, said, “As the mother of a 6-year-old with Down syndrome who has fought tirelessly for full inclusion on every level, I LOVE that you…thought of doing something like this!... Music, dance, and art offer a medium for special needs children to express themselves more easily.”

IMAGINE THAT!, a special three-week virtual program of classes  by SCFTA

During IMAGINE THAT! classes, students will learn the basics of singing and dancing. They will meet new friends as they begin to express themselves through movement and music. The January virtual workshops will be 55 minutes in length. Studio D. faculty members Ms. Gina and Ms. Cynthia will conduct each class.

For more information about the IMAGINE THAT! classes or Studio D: Arts School for All Abilities, email Community@SCFTA.org.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts is an acclaimed arts institution as well as a beautiful multi-disciplinary cultural campus. It is committed to supporting artistic excellence, offering unsurpassed experiences, and to engaging the entire community in new and exciting ways through the unique power of live performance as well as a diverse array of inspiring arts-based education and community engagement programs.

Previously called the Orange County Performing Arts Center, Segerstrom Center is Orange County’s largest non-profit arts organization. In addition to its six performance venues, Segerstrom Center is also home to the American Ballet Theatre William J. Gillespie School and Studio D: Arts School for All (previously named School of Dance and Music for Children with Disabilities).