Youth Initiative Takes Flight With Peter Pan

Students from Lake Shore Middle School
(Courtesy of Mary Stucchi)

(Press Release) (West Palm Beach, FL.) – The Kravis On Broadway (KOB) Youth Initiative sprinkled a little fairy dust on students from Lake Shore Middle School in Belle Glade, making their Broadway dreams take flight with “Peter Pan.” With students soaring into the world of musical theater, this initiative, sponsored by J.P. Morgan Chase & Co., provides a meaningful connection to the arts that ensures young minds never stop believing in the power of imagination. Aligned with four captivating KOB productions— “Funny Girl,” “Peter Pan,” “Moulin Rouge” and “Les Misérables”—the initiative engages middle and high school students in enriching pre-show and post-show experiences, including the chance to talk with members of the cast for a private meet and greet.

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“Live theater has the power to transport us and we are thrilled to introduce students to the magic that is Broadway,” said Tracy C. Butler, Kravis Center Senior Director of Education. “Our goal is to ignite curiosity, inspire creativity and foster a lifelong appreciation for the arts.”
 
Beyond “Peter Pan,” the KOB Youth Initiative will extend its reach to additional youth organizations throughout the season. Participating groups include EmpowHER of the Palm Beaches Leadership Academy, Soul Movement and The Omega Lamplighters, each paired with a Broadway production that resonates with their mission and interests.
 
“We are honored to continue our collaboration with the Kravis Center through the Kravis On Broadway Youth Initiative,” said Aisha Ali, President, Young Professionals of the Kravis Center and Vice President and Banker, J.P. Morgan Private Bank. “Bringing the magic of Broadway to students not only broadens their artistic perspectives but also fosters confidence and connection. Our J.P. Morgan employees are delighted to be part of this transformative experience, and we look forward to expanding access to live theater for more young minds in Palm Beach County.”
 
As part of each experience, students participate in a pre-performance workshop led by a local teaching artist and a post-performance talkback with members of the cast. The pre-performance workshops involve an arts activity to introduce the content and themes of each production. Diana Garle, a bi-coastal actor and educator, spearheaded the most recent workshop which was led in both English and Spanish and introduced students to the characters and key plot points of “Peter Pan,” engaging their imaginations and creativity through theatre games and playful activities. Students in attendance also received an item of show merchandise to commemorate the experience.
 
The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is one of South Florida’s premier performing arts centers located in Downtown West Palm Beach. Since 1992 the Kravis Center has hosted the very best in live entertainment featuring world-class artists in music, comedy, dance, Broadway and more. Since opening its doors, the Kravis Center has welcomed millions of students to its comprehensive arts education programs.  Students of all ages can participate in a variety of workshops, classes and special events, as well as free and reduced-price tickets to those who might not otherwise have the chance to experience live performances.  For information, please visit kravis.org.
 
For more information about the Kravis Center and the Kravis On Broadway Youth Initiative, please visit www.kravis.org/education-community.