The Bank of America Arts Showcase brings Rhode Island students, teachers, and artists together in the true spirit of a community arts program. Each year, approximately 10,000 middle school students (grades six through nine) attend live performances of dance, music or theatre at PPAC during school hours. Local artists have the unique professional opportunity to perform before a large audience on the PPAC stage. The performances are presented by New England artists selected by PPAC based on the cultural diversity and educational value of their productions and the positive, energetic responses of their audiences. Prior to each performance, teachers receive study guides to help in the development of curriculum activities. Following each performance, students are asked to submit a report card, grading the performance and offering feedback. The need and desire on the part of the community for this vitally important program is clearly demonstrated by its success. All Rhode Island public, private, and parochial school children in grades six through nine are invited to attend the Arts Showcase performances. Reservations are required and requests are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tickets to Bank of America performances are FREE; these tickets are not available to the general public. This program is an outreach offering to middle schools only. Middle school teachers who are interested in bringing their students to a Showcase performance should visit our website at ppacri.org for reservation information. All performances begin at 9:30am.

 
If you are a middle school teacher and would like more information
on Arts Showcase performances, Click Here
 
Here is the 2008/2009 Arts Showcase schedule:
 
Rob the Drummer
Thursday, October 2, 2008

Pro-Arts, Pro-Sports, Anti-Substance Abuse, Self-Esteem
Rob Gottfried is a nationally acclaimed children's motivational educator whose musical concerts educate audiences through a dynamic approach - the drums - to convey a message focused on anti-bullying and accepting ethnic diversity. This "bare foot" percussionist seeks to strengthen life choices through music, sports, academics, and creative arts while addressing the problems of drug and alcohol abuse in school-age children.  "Rob the Drummer" has been described as a role-model beacon for today's youth.

Carlos De Leon's Latin American Orchestra & Dancers
Thursday, October 30, 2008

Carlos de Leon is a seasoned "salsa" band leader, composer, and musician who performs regularly in New England, New York, and Latin America.  His music is lively, his presentation engaging and interactive, and his focus is on sharing his knowledge and love of Latin music with young audiences.  To enhance the Latin American rhythms, colorful dancers meticulously execute dances including salsa, boleros, and the meringue.

Everett Dance Theatre
Thursday, February 26, 2009

Marriage of Art and Science
This lecture/demonstration celebrates the creative thinking used by scientists and artists alike. Constructed with the help of a physics teacher, Everett Dance Theatre explores the natural forces which affect us all. Principles of center of gravity, momentum, cause and effect, rotational inertia, and conservation of energy are pulled from the pages of the textbook and given life on the stage.

Inca Son
Thursday, March 26, 2009

Music & Dance of the Andes
This internationally acclaimed Peruvian music and dance ensemble will bring the Andean culture to life on the PPAC stage, dressed in authentic Inca costumes and demonstrating the unique, traditional instruments used by Andean musicians. Inca Son has won numerous awards for their beautiful musical portrayal of the rich history and folklore of this South American region.

Aubrey Atwater and Elwood Donnelly
Thursday, April 30, 2009

Traditional American Folk Music & Dance
This award-winning duo performs with band members to present traditional American folk music highlighting the cultural mix that is the basis of our American heritage. Introducing students to a wide array of instruments, dynamic music, and captivating dance, Atwater-Donnelly brings the American culture and history to life with ease and humor with their student audiences.

If you are a local arts group interested in participating in the Arts Showcase and would
like to receive a Request for Proposal, Click Here.