Education Overview

Toledo Opera believes deeply in the power of the arts. The difference between arts and entertainment is that entertainment gives you a predictable pleasure that you indulge and enjoy, but you don't tend to emerge a different person. But art always allows at least the possibility of transformation, of an inner realization. The arts must be part of every American child's education, if as a society we hope to continue our strong and varied artistic legacy.

Experiences in the arts help develop certain basic human skills that are essential to all people. Opera provides an extremely effective learning opportunity, which engages students' emotions in their studies, adding immediacy to History, Literature and other studies. Opera is also the fastest growing performing art in the United States and the one that is experiencing growth among young people.

In 1986, Toledo Opera incorporated educational programs to enhance its ability to serve the needs of the community. Toledo Opera continues to expand its acclaimed Education and Outreach program which has already touched the lives of over 500,000 young people through performances and participatory workshops in schools and communities throughout our region.