THEATREMATTERS! is a partnership between the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County and Venice Theatre. The program offers children who live in disadvantaged circumstances in Venice to participate in performance art education – for the 12th consecutive year! 24 members from the Robert and Joan Lee Boys & Girls Club between ages 8-14 participate in the Venice Theatre arts program known as THEATREMATTERS!

The THEATREMATTERS! program is designed to develop each student’s individual talents and skills, as well as teach them to work together as a team, increase their problem-solving skills, and improve their presentation and communication skills. Participants learn about performing, as well as the technical aspects of theatre such as lighting, sets, sound, and costumes. The program runs Monday through Wednesday at Venice Theatre and Thursday at the Robert and Joan Lee Boys & Girls Club.

Recent studies suggest that children who participate in the arts are more likely to be recognized for academic achievement, participate in math and science fairs, and win awards for writing. Arts education also plays an integral role in enhancing children’s developmental skills including motor skills, language development, decision-making skills, visual learning, creativity, cultural awareness, and overall academic performance.

For more information about the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County or THEATREMATTERS!, visit the link or call 941-366-3911. (And of course you can always contact Sandy, VT’s Director of Education, at 941-486-8679.)

“The partnership with Venice Theatre exposes children to performance art while improving interpersonal skills including their self-confidence and public speaking ability. If it wasn’t for Venice Theatre, many of these children may not have an opportunity otherwise to participate in a theatre program.”

Bill Sadlo President/CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County