On Monday, June 2, 2014, Asolo Repertory Theatre announced that it received a $25,000 grant from Publix Super Markets Charities for its award-winning education programs. The grant will support the theatre’s commitment to make live theater accessible for students and community members of all ages through its New Stages Tour and Main Stages student matinees.
The New Stages Tour takes innovative 45-minute adaptations of classic theatrical works, performed by third-year FSU/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training students, to schools and community venues across the state of Florida. The 2013 Romeo and Juliet tour reached an audience of more than 14,000. The 2014 New Stages Tour production will be William Shakespeare’s beloved romantic comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which is already receiving requests for fall performance dates.
Main Stages student matinees, which feature pre- and post-show activities, provide world-class theater for students at Asolo Rep, more than 2,000 this season. In addition to the exposure to Asolo Rep’s productions, students also benefit from interactive, multimedia study guides and activities led and prepared by Asolo Rep’s Education and Outreach Department. During the 2013-14 season, Asolo Rep presented student matinees for Show Boat and The Grapes of Wrath, and the FSU/Asolo Conservatory production of Antigone.
“We’re lucky to have shared powerful and enduring pieces such as The Grapes of Wrath and Romeo and Juliet, and to have reached so many students who otherwise might not have access to live theatre,” said Kathryn Moroney, Education and Outreach Director. “In a live performance, they meet characters faced with impossible decisions and life-changing moments, and these stories ask them to weigh moral questions with insight and empathy. They learn about the world around them, and they learn about their place in it.”
“Publix is truly an exemplary community partner, and we are so fortunate to have their underwriting of these essential programs that introduce students to the world of live theatre,” said Tricia Mire, Director of Development. “Participating students tell us that Asolo Rep’s productions make them want to see more live theatre, read more, and learn more about history. We are grateful to Publix for their support of igniting this love of learning and the arts.”
For more information about Asolo Rep and its Education and Outreach programming, visit www.asolorep.org.
