Outreach

Outreach Program events can include:

• In-school performance assemblies and educational presentations for schoolchildren
• Free group attendance to a rehearsal or major performance at a community venue or at TPB’s in-house studio theatre
• Interaction with dancers and instructors through Q&A sessions, meet & greet events, demonstrations or hands-on audience participation
• Joint marketing and fundraising efforts

Michelle Davis photo

TPB’s Outreach Program:

• Fosters arts appreciation
• Encourages healthy lifestyle habits
• Inspires creative expression
• Educates participants about the history of ballet
• Demonstrates expression through movement
• Supports quality nonprofit organizations in our community

Michelle Davis photo

TPB has partnered with the following community organizations:

Children’s Cancer Association
Harper’s Playground
Calaroga Terrace Senior Center
Community Partners for Affordable Housing
Portland Jewish Academy
Wilson Area Arts Council
Various local elementary and middle schools in the Portland Metro area

Michelle Davis photo

Michelle Davis photo

Outreach Spotlight

In 2010, over 150 elementary school children from Rieke, Hayhurst and Maplewood schools participated in a special Outreach Program event. TPB instructors introduced the story and history of TPB’s Spring Concert performance pieces, then TPB dancers demonstrated ballet positions so children could identify them during the performance. Many students even tried these positions themselves. Students were then treated to a special performance of select works from the Spring Concert. After, dancers and instructors answered questions from students and teachers. This program extended into individual classrooms as well as participating teacher were given additional art and music lessons that engaged students as they reflected on the performance. The program continued in spring 2011, bringing audiences from Hayhurst Elementary and Arleta Middle School to TPB's studio theatre.

Arleta thoroughly enjoyed our morning with The Portland Ballet. Our students and staff were able to experience a performance which was both beautiful and educational. Seeing peer aged performers dance with such professional skill made for a wonderfully unique and memorable event. Our students don't normally get opportunities to see ballet, particularly due to the costs involved. As a Title 1 school, we are always excited to participate in low or no cost events. We look forward to another opportunity to see TPB perform.' Lisa Newlyn, Language Arts Teacher/Arleta School - 2011 Spring Concert performance and Lecture Demonstration