Seward Parent Teacher Association (PTA) received a $5,000 grant through Seward Community Foundation’s 2017 competitive grant process in support of their “Theater For All” program. “Theater For All” brings live, professional, family oriented entertainment to Seward and the surrounding area youth. In April of 2017 Seward PTSA collaborated with Alaska Junior Theater and several local sponsors to bring Cascada de Flores to Seward for three days.
During their visit these musical ambassadors of Mexican and Spanish speaking musical traditions presented a unique story-time at the Seward Community Library that included song, dance and theater. They repeated the performance at Seward Elementary School and held a workshop and concert at Seward High School for middle and high school students. Elders at Seward Mountain Haven were delighted with a professional concert in their place of residence.
On one evening there was a music and dance workshop for the public and on the second evening there was a community performance that included dinner and a show.
PTA Arts Chair, Amy Hankins, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of thanks from teachers, parents, students, school administrators, community members, elders and their care givers. She believes art education, music and being creative are important aspects of any student’s education. Through their “Theater For All” program Seward PTA is able to bring to Seward professional artists and integrate educational opportunities into the events.
Funding for this grant came from the Seward Community Foundation’s unrestricted fund.