April 7 Arts Education Update from Confederation Centre
-School of Performing Arts classes have transitioned online; new online visual arts resources coming soon-
Due to the advice of the public health officer, Confederation Centre has announced it will be unable to resume most arts education programs this spring. Below is a rundown of impacted on-site programs and departmental updates:
School of Performing Arts (SoPA)
The delivery of the Centre’s SoPA partnership with Holland College has transitioned online. The SoPA theatre and dance students will receive web-based training through the end of the semester.
dance umbrelladance umbrella has cancelled all classes until next fall as well as the End-of-Year Showcase, scheduled for May 2.
“This announcement is a major disappointment for the students who work with such commitment and passion towards the goal of the May performance,” explains Peggy Reddin, director of arts education. “We wish we could celebrate the results of the year’s training together but will have to wait for the time when it’s safe to gather. We can’t wait to see you again soon!”
Confederation Centre box office is reaching out directly to patrons regarding refunds for the End-of-Year Showcase. As for class tuition refunds, options include: transferring the payment as a credit to next year’s dance umbrella; a refund for the six weeks of cancelled classes; or, the possibility of receiving a charitable donation receipt in lieu of refund. If students and families wish to forward a credit to next year, or donate to the Centre, please contact Kayla Shaw, [email protected].
Visual Arts Programming
The spring session of visual arts classes has also been cancelled. The Centre is still hopeful that the summer visual art camps can take place, and a further decision will be announced by June 1.
Visual Arts Educator Evan Furness is currently developing some web-based projects, such as ‘Art Class From Home’. These activities are for all-ages and will be profiled in the days ahead through Centre platforms.
“We’re looking forward to launching some online tools soon for people to experience at home,” says Furness. “During these challenging times, it’s important for us at the Centre to continue connecting with families and patrons at a distance.”
Choral Music
The Confederation Centre Youth Chorus and the Confederation Singers choirs are now both finished for the season. Also, the Voices of Spring and Choral Music on Holy Day concerts have been cancelled. Lastly, the April Youth Chorus Tour to Toronto was called off.
Music Director Don Fraser looks forward to the return of the Choral Programme next fall and the planning of a 2021 Youth Chorus Tour. Fraser is welcoming new members to sign up for both choirs for the 2020-21 season.
Public School Visits
Normally April is a very exciting month for school visits to the Centre. However, like most public programs, school tours of the Gallery and French language Arts Discovery Days have been cancelled.
Please continue to visit the Centre’s website and social media for up-to-date information on the Centre’s response to this evolving situation and new online resources.