There's no doubt Miami's art scene is booming. With the development of the Design District, the revolution of Wynwood, success of the Arsht Center and the international notoriety of Art Basel, Miami has become a playground for art lovers. But what about their children?
While art events for children were scarce ten years ago, they've been steadily expanding along with the community. Students, Girl Scouts and youth groups packed the Ziff Opera House in early February for the dress rehearsal of the opera "The Magic Flute". More and more museums and theaters are stepping up to the plate and offering special family days, events and performances for the younger crowd.
And all children are being included. The Miami Art Museum's (MAM) Family Festival will feature activities and a special area targeted for children with emotional disabilities such as autism. MAM's Director of Education Emily Mello explains, "We have an 'arts for all' policy year-round...When institutions make it a priority to find new ways to serve differently-abled audiences, the creativity of our program and the participants benefit everyone."
Upcoming Miami art events for families include:
Miami Art Museum's (MAM) Free Family Festival will be held Saturday, March 9th from 1-4 p.m. Exhibition tours, a super-size chalk drawing, Pogo Paint Pole, face painting, DJ and a quiet "Miami Marina" space featuring soothing sounds, lowered lighting and crafts are all included in the event presented by Met Life Foundation.
Adrienne Arsht Center Free Family Fest on Saturday, March 9th starting at 11:30 a.m. The fifth Family Fest of the season has a Wonderland-theme and will feature performances, outdoor crafts, face painting, and balloon sculpting. Admission is free but "First Access Passes" are required for the performance inside of the Opera House.
Miami Children's Theater presents "Gypsy" from March 8th through 17th on Fridays and Saturdays at 7p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. "Gypsy" tells the story of the stage-mom and her quest for fame for her daughters and herself.
The benefits of exposing children to the arts have been well documented. Miami parents now have many opportunities to do so and should take advantage of theme.
Know of an upcoming art event for families or have an idea for the Miami Modern Moms columns? Email me at katherine@lostweens.com.
Comments