School Time Adventure Series

Please click here for a schedule of this season's School Time Adventure Series

By Jeffrey S. Levine
If a picture has been said to be worth a thousand words, it is almost inconceivable to think how many volumes it would take to equal the richness and depth of a live theatre performance. This, however, is the guiding principle behind the Center for the Arts’ School Time Series; to provide an enriching and entertaining experience that students of all backgrounds can learn from, enjoy and will never forget. First created at the behest of the Center’s Executive Director, Thomas Burrows, the School Time Series has been a constant in the CFA’s programming since it was first scheduled in 1997. Averaging around 13,000 students each season, the series shows no signs of slowing down or deviating from the original mission.

“Theatre allows [the student’s] imagination and their creativity to flourish,” Associate Director of Marketing Karen Dunn explained. “From our end, we have maintained the quality of the programs, as well as the affordability. Since 1997, the ticket price has only increased by $1.”

Although the current $6 price tag is certainly one of the best deals in town - compared to say a $9 movie ticket - even this reasonable admission has posed some problems for school districts as arts education and enrichment fieldtrips are often the first programs to be cut under the duress of very difficult budget constraints. Thankfully, very generous corporate sponsors (in addition to numerous generous individuals) have stepped in over the years to ensure that all students will be able to benefit from seeing live productions.

Barnes & Noble, the series’ longest supporter, first became involved because of their summer reading program. Noticing that a lot of the performances were based upon works for students, Barnes & Noble began summer reading contests where the groups who read the most books would be rewarded with tickets and transportation to the shows.

Monaco's Violin Shop and Music Center, a local, family-owned business, also sponsors the 2009-10 school time series. Monaco's is able to offer a drawing for tickets and transportation through the company's website: www.MonacosViolinShop.com/UB_Application.php

Even though the main focus of the School Time Series is on education, with study guides provided before the performances, perhaps the most important aspect of the program is what Karen Dunn observed in the students themselves. “They’re engaged, excited and laughing and having a good time.”

For more information on the School Time Adventure Series, contact Karen Dunn at (716)645-6771 or email groups@ubcfa.org.

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School Time Adventure Series