At The Heart of the Hall: Every Summer
Every Summer, a multitude of high-energy, enthusiastic fans teem through the doors of Ruth Eckerd Hall, ready for an unforgettable adventure. For some, it is their first visit while others return year after year. They spend their time with us laughing, singing, and dancing however they are not ticket buyers and most cannot even reach the counter at our Ticket Office. They are…..kids. Our kids.
The Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts at Ruth Eckerd Hall offers year-round programming and summer camps in every artistic genre for students of all ages, abilities, and circumstances as a result of our tuition assistance and scholarship initiatives. ALL students are welcome – it bears repeating.
Boasting just as much talent as the main auditorium most in the area are familiar with, the School fosters appreciation, celebration, and exploration of the arts for more than 58,000 students annually. Distinguished alumni are currently studying at Boston Conservatory at Berklee and The Juilliard School, performing on Broadway, and touring the country with renowned rock bands. But successes equally as impressive (if not more so) happen every day as confidence blossoms, creativity flourishes, and compassion is cultivated.
Countless research quantifies the impact of participation in artistic experiences on intellectual development and the ability to learn. The bigger conversation, though, references how art helps a child find their own voice while learning to respect the voices of others. Art gives us a channel for expression and helps us become who we are ultimately going to be.
This summer our kids will create, rehearse, and perform side by side. There will be paint, glitter, costumes, and props EVERYWHERE with laughter and music providing the season’s lively score. It will be a time to remember with an impact far beyond what our audiences will see, and we couldn’t be more proud. So the next time you visit Ruth Eckerd Hall for a show or special event, take a moment to remember what else is happening in the building. As residents of Tampa Bay, we hope it makes you proud, too.
Sharon Reid-Kane, Ed.D.
Vice President & Chief Education and Community Engagement Officer