If you asked Open Arts Alliance Executive Director, Rocco Natale, about the upcoming season of theatre, he would say, “lots of new adventures, but lots of old friends.”
That could mean any number of things as the homegrown non-profit celebrates it’s 10th year of bringing arts engagement to our community in the form of educational theatre and senior citizen outreach.
Perhaps most immediately it means a fall season including the beloved family classic Frozen Kids and the Carnegie Hall premiere of a new concert version of Charles Dickens’ classic: A Christmas Carol at Weill Hall.
Offering two fall musicals for 2024 is a signature for the non-profit organization and allows for increased student learning opportunities (grades 1-12) including the chance to perform in one of the world’s leading concert halls.
Cindy Busani, Director of Outreach, says she is excited about the shows for student performers adding “FROZEN is a universally loved story about the power of sisterhood.
And what humbug doesn’t love Scrooge?” while Executive Director, Rocco Natale adds, “this season offers students the chance to work in a world-class venue while also empowering personal development and giving back to their community at home.”
The idea to present work at the renowned Weill Concert Hall at Carnegie Hall came from a dedication to offering local productions with global learning opportunities and serves as a celebration of the “past, present and future” of a decade of arts enrichment.
The concert will feature alumni of the organization returning to share the stage with current students (in grades 7-12) as well as professional artists offering students and young adults access to first-hand experiences.
Board member, Samantha Steele, says that this project grew from an impetus to celebrate student excellence while continuing to offer experiences for college preparation and resume building.
“We hear from students in our leadership councils that there is more pressure than ever to succeed. We want to create opportunities for students to set themselves apart while they pursue their personal dreams.”
That’s not the end of the exciting developments: OAA has a new location at the Greenwich Arts Council on Greenwich Avenue.
This central location not only offers expanded access to much needed rehearsal spaces, but will serve as a hub for the free increased senior education programs OAA offers to senior citizens annually.
“We’re tired,” Busani, and Natale laugh, and then add, “but good tired.”
Busani added, “I think we’re all just excited for what this means for the kids-more chances to shine.”
All youth ages 6-18 are encouraged to register now for programs and auditions.
For more information or to register, please visit www.OpenArtsAlliance.com
Open Arts Alliance, is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization.