Poway OnStage is primarily known for hosting the Professional Performance Series at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts – a series that attracts an audience of approximately 10,000 annually with music, dance, theater and more.  But Poway OnStage is also deeply committed to an extensive Arts in Education Initiative that serves nearly 5,000 students each year. This program is a 21-year-old collaboration with the Poway Unified School District, most of whose schools are located within the City of San Diego.

The Arts in Education Initiative is a vibrant embodiment of Poway OnStage’s commitment to bringing the performing arts to North Inland’s children, with a special emphasis on students enrolled in Title 1 or Low Arts Equity schools.  Children from low socioeconomic backgrounds who have arts-rich experiences are more likely to achieve key positive outcomes – academically, socially, and civically – compared with their peers who lack access to arts experiences.

Over the past school year Poway OnStage served:

• 64 K-12 students through their free Youth Musical Theatre Camp held each Spring.
• 677 elementary school students through in-school drama workshops for Title 1 and Low Arts Equity Schools.
• 2,708 Fourth Grade and High School band students through their Introduction to Instruments program which teaches children about the various types of band and orchestra instruments via a lively, interactive assembly hosted by high school band students.
• 340 elementary school students through their Master Classes which provide “up close and personal” experiences with nationally and internationally recognized artists held both in schools and at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts. 

All components are designed to align with VAPA (Visual and Performing Arts Standards) set by the California Department of Education. This year Poway OnStage will expand its Arts in Education program by presenting elementary school students with an anti-bullying theatrical performance (with study guide) at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts.