CONCORD — September 6, 2024 — Approaching the launch of its 2024/25 theater season, The Umbrella Arts Center has announced that it will continue its increasingly popular Kid Care Shows program. These give parents an opportunity to attend select performances while their child(ren) ages 5-12 engage in art activities inspired by the film or show in one of The Umbrella's classrooms with an experienced teacher.
Piloted over the last year as a collaboration between The Umbrella Arts Education and Performing Arts Programs, these shows aim to provide better access to arts and culture events and create a shared experience opportunity for families.
“As a theater parent myself, the Kid Care Program is near and dear to my heart,” says Kira Troilo of Art & Soul Consulting. “Oftentimes, working as a theater artist, or even trying to attend adult theater, as a parent can be extremely difficult. We have a long way to go as an industry to make our practices more equitable for parents and caregivers, but this program at The Umbrella is a wonderful, concrete step in the right direction."
Pre-registration is required and capacity is limited. Parents can drop the kids off 30 minutes before the start of the film/performance, select a snack and drink option for their child(ren) to enjoy during the program, then head to the theater in plenty of time to grab their own concessions and find a comfortable seat. Pick-up occurs directly following the conclusion of the film/performance.
Kid Care Show dates announced for this fall are the 3PM Sunday matinees for Network (October 13) and Now. Here. This. (October 27) with more to be announced at TheUmbrellaArts.org/Kidcare.
The Umbrella is ADA accessible and a proud partner in the Massachusetts Cultural Council's EBT Card-to-Culture program. It offers free parking and free admission to its visual arts galleries. It is easily accessible by Route 2 and is roughly three blocks from a Fitchburg Commuter Rail Line stop.
For more information, contact Stewart Ikeda, Director of Marketing, at stewart@theumbrellaarts.org.
