bergenPAC is committed to providing quality arts education programs, helping children learn to appreciate the arts and discover hidden talents. Such programs serve as a catalyst for a talented few to enter the arts as a profession, but their greater impact is in building discipline and self-esteem, offering positive role models and enhancing the learning experience. Because the arts are such a powerful form of communication, they engage children in a way that allows other important skills to be learned more effectively Ultimately, children who develop interests, ambitions and goals are more likely to stay in school, increasing their odds of achieving their dreams – whatever they may be. bergenPAC’s programs focus on many educational activities that include:

• Programs for Area Schools that introduce live theatrical performances, musicals and the stimulus and thrill of firsthand exposure to the arts. Both public and private schools are invited to participate. In past years, over 75,000 school children from throughout the region have been introduced to live performances at the Center.

• An Artist in Residence Program that provides participating public schools with free in-house workshops with nationally recognized artists.

• A Performing Arts School offering individual classes and workshops and numerous performance opportunities for children, young adults, and adults. The Performing Arts School, begun when the theater was the John Harms Center, introduced professional-level acting, music, dance and – most importantly – confidence-building skills to underserved and at-risk children. The Performing Arts School will once again become a key aspect of bergenPAC’s programs.

• Professional Performance Company will be comprised of some of the most gifted students from the Performing Arts School, who will give free performances to hospitals and various tri-state area non-profit and community organizations.

• beyond dance@bergenPAC is an exciting new dance program being introduced this season. Headed by roberta mathes, formerly of “dance plus... and a whole lot more,” and current faculty member of Steps on Broadway and American Ballet Theatre’s Summer Intensive, beyond dance@bergenPAC offers a full dance program of contemporary jazz, creative movement, ballet, modern, ethnic fusion, hip-hop and tap designed for all levels and ages (children, teens, adults). For class schedule and information, click on beyond dance@bergenPAC or call (201) 816-8160, extension 33.

These programs bring the wonder of the performing arts into the lives of people of all ages, cultures, and economic backgrounds. The Center maintains a commitment to actively reaching out to all constituencies in its service region as a community resource for artists, families, and students.

For information on bergenPAC’s Education Programs, contact the Development Department at (201) 816-8160, extension 15.