Megan Thompson Director of Education and Engagement Cleveland Opera Theater (352) 216-5065 mthompson@clevelandoperatheater.org Creators' Collective Registration is now OPEN! June 7 - 25, 2021 @ Edgewater Park A FREE Summer arts-intensive for CLE youth presented in partnership with Cleveland Metroparks' Youth Outdoors, produced by Starting Point https://www.clevelandoperatheater.org/creators-collective CLEVELAND, OH, April 2, 2021 Emerging middle and high school-aged artists in the literary, poetic, visual, digital, and musical performing arts are invited to hone their craft with Cleveland Opera Theater in a NEW outdoor Summer arts-intensive. With the help of professional teaching artists, participants will spend one week studying formal construction, lyrical and musical content, and the practical considerations of developing a new opera before creating their own, collaborative dramatic work that they will stage, rehearse, and perform. During the first week, aspiring writers, poets, and librettists have the opportunity to craft their own opera scene. In the second and third weeks, we invite students interested in all aspects of the performing arts to join us in staging, rehearsing, and showcasing the scenes in a free performance offered at Edgewater Park where family, friends, and the local community can recognize the achievements of the young creators and performers. Staff from Cleveland Metroparks Youth Outdoors program will lead the youth through recreational activities and outdoor adventures (all equipment will be provided). Youth Outdoors strives to meet the developmental needs of youth living in or near the City of Cleveland through involvement in outdoor adventure and nature exploration activities. By experiencing the wonder of nature and developing skills in outdoor recreation, young people gain a life-long appreciation and understanding of the importance of parks and nature. They also learn valuable life skills in making decisions, developing interests, communicating thoughts and feelings, making healthy lifestyle choices, and fulfilling responsibilities to others in their group and community. Thanks to Starting Point’s generous funding, the program will be provided free of charge including lunch, snacks, and all necessary materials. Priority will be given to students living or attending school in the Detroit-Shoreway neighborhood followed by students living or attending school in the city of Cleveland. The mission of Cleveland Opera Theater is to advance opera through innovative, accessible, and inclusive experiences. Our vision and our motto is Opera For All. We invite you to experience, explore, and engage in opera with us! Follow us on social media @CLEOperaTheater. If you would like more information, please call Megan Thompson at (352) 216-5065 or email mthompson@clevelandoperatheater.org.