Long a cornerstone of cultural enrichment in the Yampa Valley, Opera Steamboat is taking operatic performances into classrooms throughout the region. 

Building on a two-decades legacy of education-based outreach, the organization is amplifying its efforts to engage youth through innovative, hands-on programs that aim to encourage both creativity and inclusivity.

For many years, Opera Steamboat’s “Opera in the Schools” program has introduced students to the art form by bringing touring performances to schools throughout the Yampa Valley. In the past, the initiative involved presenting a condensed opera to students, which allowed them to experience the performance as audience members and, at times, as participants. 

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While impactful, the organization recognized the potential for a deeper, more participatory experience.

This spring marks a transformative shift in the program’s approach. Instead of bringing a performance to the students, Opera Steamboat is introducing “Spirituals in Motion,” a classroom-based workshop led by teaching artist La’Shelle Allen.

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She brings a wealth of experience and passion to the school program and has played a role in the piloting of a similar initiative in Kentucky schools, focusing on the rich history and emotive power of spirituals.

Allen captivated audiences last summer with her role in “Welcome to the Madness,” an operatic history lesson on the founding of Perry-Mansfield.

In the immersive workshop, students explore the historical context of spirituals as well as their roots and significance. Most importantly, they engage in the creative process directly as they compose their own spirituals with Allen’s guidance and input.

This interactive, hands-on approach aims to transition students from passive observers to active creators while concurrently fostering a deep and meaningful connection to opera and its historical foundations.

“It’s about kids doing instead of watching,” said Julie Maykowski, general director and CEO of Opera Steamboat. “We hope that the impact and engagement with them is on a deeper level.”

The program’s expansion to a three-week format allows for more engagement at more schools throughout the Yampa Valley, allowing Opera Steamboat to achieve its mission to cultivate a lasting understanding and appreciation for the performing arts among young learners.

Also adding to Opera Steamboat’s youth-based momentum is a new collaboration with the Boys & Girls Club of Northwest Colorado called the “Rising Stars Youth Opera Program.” The 10-week pilot initiative, designed for children ages 8-12, offers weekly sessions that bring together singing, dancing, acting and storytelling. 

The curriculum, which is crafted to reflect the components and multifaceted nature of opera, will be co-directed by Carly Stone and Marie Carmichael.

Maykowski envisions this program will also serve as an inclusive space where children can discover and nurture their unique talents. 

“Steamboat is such a sports-centric community, and not all kids are good at sports or even all that interested in sports,” she said. “I really believe that the arts provide a place for any child to find their sort of thing.”

The program aims to reach children from diverse backgrounds as well as those who may not have previously engaged with the performing arts. Additionally, Opera Steamboat hopes to empower youth by fostering skills such as empathy, teamwork and problem-solving along with an alternative avenue for self-expression.

The session will culminate in a performance showcase where participants will present their newfound skills to family, friends and the community. 

Both the “Opera in the Schools” and “Rising Stars Youth Opera Program” are part of Opera Steamboat’s dedication to redefining its role within the community.

Maykowski emphasized the importance of this strategic realignment, noting that upon her arrival, the organization was not fully aligned with its mission. 

“Now, we’ve kind of gotten back on track because our mission is really about engaging our entire community,” she said.

A key aspect of this engagement is the diversification of the musical genres and cultural perspectives presented to students. Opera Steamboat recognizes the value in exploring a wide array of vocal traditions, with future programs possibly delving into Native American songs, Asian musical tradition and other global art forms, which will provide students with a wide range of culturally-based experiences.

To facilitate this, the organization is actively seeking a diverse group of teaching artists who can bring varied cultural elements to the Yampa Valley. 

Maykowski also envisions collaboration with other local arts organizations, such as the symphony, dance theater and theater groups in order to develop a comprehensive and multidisciplinary arts curriculum. 

While Steamboat Springs is known for its vibrant arts scene, neighboring communities like Hayden, Oak Creek and Moffat County have less access to organized arts programs.

Opera Steamboat aims to reduce this gap by extending its outreach to these areas as well. To accomplish this, the organization has added an extra week to its school touring schedule, which will ensure that more students can benefit from its programs.

“It’s really important to try to reach all of those school districts,” Maykowski said. “Especially with programming like ‘Spirituals in Motion,’ because it’s an opportunity for kids to have exposure to something that they may never see.”

To ensure effective implementation of these programs, Opera Steamboat is actively seeking funding to sustain and expand its educational outreach. Maykowski is optimistic, believing that the unique and impactful nature of these programs will attract support from foundations, corporations and individual donors.

To learn more about Opera Steamboat and its programs, visit operasteamboat.org.