Take a deep breath, stretch and relax…Perhaps put some music on??
Music is what our emotions sound like, painting is what our emotions look like and live theater is the long standing tradition of storytelling of what our lives are like, how can we not connect to that? Art is subjective and we might not always “get it” but good or bad it makes us FEEL something in this modern society that is so disposable, virtual and temporary. It expresses the things we cannot articulate. The impact that the arts can have on a child is boundless. Think back to the first concert you attended; remember the energy, the excitement, the emotional roller-coaster you felt…and how vivid all of that is in your memory today?
We can create those experiences for all the children in our lives by exposing them to art at every age. Interactions with art can change people, it can heal people, and a shared experience encourages interaction. Most importantly, as parents, art can allow for a cross generational dialogue to start. It builds connections to those around us and something we are all striving to remain is connected.
Art also has the ability to get children to think creatively which promotes problem solving skills. Art can be anything we WANT it to be…how many things are there in life that we can say that about. Think about the freedom that comes with thinking like that…”this” can be whatever I want it to be. It begins the thought process for children that, they too can be whatever they want to be.
“Books, history, science and culture can all come alive through dance, music or theatre…While the arts engage and teach they also encourage young viewers to ask questions and asking question is critical to the evolution of a developing young mind. The arts are also fun – they help to make school engaging and encourage students to stay interested in school. How often have I witnessed the excitement and anticipation as kids board the bus for the theatre or come piling into the auditorium for a show. Finally, the arts give all of us a sense of renewal. As Picasso said, 'Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life' ”. “Bert Goldstein Director, MSU Federal Credit Union Institute for Arts & Creativity, Wharton Center for Performing Arts – Michigan State University
I encourage you to take your children to see three colors, seven notes, ten digits and all the ways we interpret them. Imagine what it can be.
Diana has been involved with the City Opera House for over three years. Booking, planning and coordinating over 140 events a year. She also works with local schools for workshops with the artists that perform at the City Opera House. A self proclaimed music and live performance nerd. She volunteers for the independent publishing company Write Bloody, the poetry division and Write Fuzzy, the children’s division. A small business owner, The Diana Group LLC, a real estate investment company and licensed Real Estate Broker in Florida and licensed Real Estate Sales Associate in Michigan.
She can be reached via manager@cityoperahouse.org and (231) 941-8082 ext 202
