Segerstrom Center for the Arts president Casey Reitz recently announced a name change to the Center’s School of Dance & Music for Children with Disabilities. The school will now be called Studio D: Arts School for All Abilities offering classes to children and young adults ages 4 – 22 with physical and cognitive disabilities such as Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorders, hearing and visual impairments and other complex needs. Fall enrollment is now open!
In the press release dated August 26, 2020, Reitz was quoted as saying “We wanted to create a name that would be symbolic of the vast diversity of our community and, especially, honor children and young adults with physical and cognitive disabilities and their families.” He went on to say that The Segerstrom had over time expanded it classes to include more artistic disciplines, such as musical theater to compliment its dance and music classes.
The School of Dance and Music for Children with Disabilities performance on November 11, 2019 at Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Photo by Paul Bersebach
The classes inspire students to investigate and expand their physical and creative abilities through dance, music, and self-expression. All of the knowledge that these students obtain helps not only to build up their self-esteem, but it gives them the social skills to make new and lasting friendships. The classes are also available to siblings and individuals without disabilities.
While still acting under its previous name, Parenting OC Magazine’s 2019 Reader’s Choice poll named Studio D as Best Special Need Camp/Activity in Parenting. Vice President of Community Engagement, Jason Holland noted that the enrollment has increased over the past four years since the school was founded. ”And it has been rewarding beyond our dreams to follow many as they grow up and develop skills, self-exdpre3ssion and a love for the arts,” he said.
Studio D -Ms. Meg instructor – Photo courtesy of Segerstrom Center for the Arts
The classes at Studio D. will begin on September 16, 2020 and continue through November 21. Space is limited to 12 students per class, so early enrollment is strongly encouraged. At the start of the session, students will receive a Studio D To-Go kit through the postal system. These kits include props, sensory tools, and instruments and the kit is included in the price of tuition.
There are Dance & Music classes led by a dance instructor and musician; Musical Theater classes led by a vocal coach and dance instructor; and in addition, the Musical Theater classes will be a class for Youth, ages 8-12 and Teens, ages 13-16 also led by a vocal coach and dance instructor.
Kirsch Kids – Photo courtesy of Segerstrom Center for the Arts
“My daughter look forward t her dance and music class every week. She enjoys watching the instructor’s video to preview the week’s lesson. This class is a great social learning opportunity in these challenging times as the instructors and students collaborate with making decisions abut the dance and music routines. Thee is also ample opportunity to cheer for their peers.” – Parent of student in Young Adult Class.
Class schedule for Studio D: Arts School for All Abilities:
Dance & Music
Kinder, Ages 4-7 Wednesday, 3-3:45 p.m.
Dance & Music
Youth, Ages 8-12 Thursday, 4-4:45 p.m.
Musical Theater
Youth, Ages 8-12 Wednesdays, 4-4:45 p.m.
Musical Theater
Teen, Ages 13-16 Wednesday, 5-5:45 p.m.
Dance & Music
Young Adult, Ages 17-22 Thursday, 5-5:45 p.m.
Dance & Music
Kinder, Ages 4-7 Saturday, 10—10:45 a.m.
Dance & Music
Young Adult, Ages 17-22 Saturday, 11-11:45 a.m.
Dance & Music
Teen, Ages 13-16 Saturday, 12-12:45 p.m.
For additional information, please visit the Center’s website HERE. Email the school at Community@SCFTA.org or call 714-556-2122 Ext. 4337.
To visit the Segerstrom Center for the Arts website, click HERE.
Written by Jeff Slayton for LA Dance Chronicle.
Featured image: The School of Dance and Music for Children with Disabilities performance on November 11, 2019 at Segerstrom Center for the Arts -Photo by Paul Bersebach
