The PAC is giving students a ticket to the world of performing art.

Early first-hand exposure to the arts can play an important part in child development, but such access is limited for many children because art programs are being cut from school curriculums due to lack of lack of funding.

Launched last year, the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center K-12 Arts Education Outreach program exposes students to the visual and performing arts, while also collaborating with teachers and administrators in local school districts to develop an enhanced arts education curriculum.

“This program is particularly exciting because it not only gives local students an introduction to the arts, but it also gives them a chance to connect with their community college,” said COC Chancellor Dr. Dianne Van Hook. “In an effort to help all students pursue their goals and succeed, it’s never too early to introduce students to new ideas and opportunities.”

Through school assemblies, bus-in programs, classroom visits and family performances, students can enjoy performances that meet or exceed the state of California’s Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) standards.

“We anticipate reaching more than 10,000 children this year alone,” said Adam Philipson, PAC managing director. “Our goal is to work closely and serve students from each of the five districts in Santa Clarita.”

A brochure of the new season’s art education offerings has been sent to every superintendent, principal, teacher and school PTA in the Santa Clarita Valley.

“We have already received many calls and are very excited about the response,” said Philipson.

Among the new season’s offerings are student assembly performances by legendary tap dancer Skip Cunningham, harpist and flutist Arpa y Aulos, The Santa Clarita Symphony’s Children’s Instrument Petting Zoo, The Mary Pickford Institute’s mobile editing studio and a 45-minute interactive recital by LA Opera.

Bus-in opportunities are also available for schools interested in attending free performances by The Crayon Court, Spirit of Uganda and the Lula Washington Dance Theatre.

Transportation to the events is not provided by the PAC, but according to Philipson they are trying to work out funding from the county to help cover the cost of buses.    

The PAC 2009-2010 K-12 Arts Education season brochure can be downloaded by clicking here.   

For more information or to make reservations, contact Philipson at (661) 362-5305 or adam.philipson@canyons.edu.