Month: April 2017

This program is supported by Suncoast Credit Union, Cape Coral Community Foundation and the Sylvia Meisenberg Trust.

The Alliance for the Arts, in partnership with Family Initiative Inc., continues weekly art classes for young artists with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in April and May. The program, ArtPlay, is designed to engage children with ASD in the arts while focusing on identity development, self-awareness, self-esteem, social communication and building positive coping skills.  The project has garnered support from Suncoast Credit Union, Cape Coral Community Foundation, and the Sylvia Meisenberg Trust.

“We are proud to partner with our friends at Family Initiative to expand art opportunities and promote mental and emotional growth for young artists with autism,” says Alliance for the Arts executive director Lydia Black.  “Through the creative process, we allow people to explore and express themselves while building valuable life skills.”

ArtPlay classes, designed for young artists under 18, are taught by a certified art therapist and supported by an Accredited Behavioral Analyst.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with the Alliance for the Arts to offer this program for children on the autism spectrum,” says Family Initiative Inc. president David Brown. “This program offers a unique opportunity that would otherwise not be available for children to develop friendships and engage in creative fun activities in a supportive environment.”

ArtPlay classes are Thursdays from 4:30 – 6 p.m. Session one is April 13, 20 and 27. Session two is May 4, May 11, May 18 and May 25. The program takes place at the Alliance for the Arts.

The cost is $10 per class, which includes art supplies. Pre-registration is required. Students must respond to verbal direction, independently toilet, and not require one-on-one supervision.

The perfect show for the child in all of us! Peter Pan  Jr. opens April 26 and runs until April 30.

Alliance for the Arts Youth Theatre presents Peter Pan Jr., directed by Youth Theatre Director, Carmen Crussard with music direction by PJ McCready and choreography by Christopher Dean Anderson. The performances feature a dual cast with Megan Salerno and Avery King as Peter Pan.

Based on J.M. Barrie’s classic tale, Peter Pan is one of the most beloved and frequently performed family favorites of all time. This high-flying Tony Award-winning musical has been performed around the world and delighted audiences for 60 years and is now adapted for young performers.

Avery is an eighth grader at Challenger Middle School. She loves musical theater and has been performing on southwest Florida stages since age 6. Her favorite roles include Baby Bear in Shrek, Molly in Annie, Susan in Miracle in 34th Street and now Peter in Peter Pan.

Megan is a freshman at North Ft. Myers High School and has been in many local productions with City Scenes, Florida Rep, and Broadway Palm.

“I believe the arts inspire a sense of purpose in children that follows them as they grow up,” says Crussard. “I understand the importance of math and science and other subjects that promote industry. But the arts promote humanity, kindness, and relationships. This is where kids learn how to be a team player, a problem solver, a collaborator and a good friend.”

Performances are April 26, April 27 and April 30 at 7 pm, April 28 at 8 pm and April 29 at 3 pm and 8 pm. Tickets are $10 presale, $20 for adults, and $15 for students and seniors.

Purchase Tickets for Peter Pan Jr.