Unlike traditional theatrical performances, ClassACTS productions are designed specifically for young audiences. Photo courtesy of Harris Center for the Arts

 

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The Harris Center for the Arts welcomed 653 elementary school students from eight local Title I schools to a special performance of “Cinderella” on Oct. 7, providing an opportunity for young audiences to experience the magic of live theater at no cost.

The performance was part of the Harris Center’s donor-funded ClassACTS program, which removes financial barriers to arts education by providing free tickets to Title I schools and offsetting transportation expenses when needed. This year, the program received additional support from the City of Rancho Cordova through its Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF) micro grant program, helping expand access to meaningful arts experiences for local students.

The Harris Center for the Arts welcomed 653 elementary school students from eight local Title I schools to a special performance of “Cinderella” on Oct. 7. Photo courtesy of Harris Center for the Arts

Unlike traditional theatrical performances, ClassACTS productions are designed specifically for young audiences, incorporating interactive elements that invite students to become part of the storytelling. These engaging experiences encourage imagination, creativity and an appreciation for the performing arts.

To extend the educational impact beyond the theater, the program also provides teachers with a resource packet featuring standards-based activities and curriculum connections. These materials help educators build on the themes of the performance, bringing the experience back into the classroom and connecting the arts to everyday learning.

Students attending the 10 a.m. performance represented eight elementary schools: Cordova Gardens, Cordova Meadows, Cordova Villa, Navigator, Peter J. Shields, Rancho Cordova, Theodore Judah and White Rock.

“For many of these children, this may be their very first experience seeing live theater,” said Amber Shaver, Center Manager. “There’s something incredibly special about watching hundreds of excited students arrive at the Harris Center, then seeing their faces light up when the performance begins. Thanks to community partners like the City of Rancho Cordova, we’re able to make these experiences accessible to students who might not otherwise have the opportunity.”

The performance was part of the Harris Center’s donor-funded ClassACTS program, which removes financial barriers to arts education. Photo courtesy of Harris Center for the Arts

The Oct. 7 production also included a noon performance attended by an additional 793 ticket holders, including students from area public, private, charter, and homeschool communities. Together, the two performances brought 1,446 attendees to the Harris Center for a day celebrating the performing arts.

Through ClassACTS and partnerships with community supporters, the Harris Center continues its commitment to making arts education accessible to young people throughout the region, ensuring that cost and transportation are not barriers to experiencing the transformative power of live performance.

The next ClassACTS production, “Rumpelstiltskin”, will take place on Jan, 7, 2027, continuing the Harris Center’s commitment to introducing young audiences to the magic of live theater. Through engaging, interactive performances and classroom learning resources, ClassACTS helps make the performing arts an accessible and meaningful part of students’ education.

For more information visit https://www.harriscenter.net/learn-and-engage/school-matinees

Students attending the 10 a.m. performance represented eight elementary schools: Cordova Gardens, Cordova Meadows, Cordova Villa, Navigator, Peter J. Shields, Rancho Cordova, Theodore Judah and White Rock. Photo courtesy of Harris Center for the Arts

About Harris Center for the Arts

The Harris Center for the Arts is located on the campus of Folsom Lake College in the heart of Folsom. The $50 million venue was built in 2010 and features three unique theaters within the performing arts center. More than 100,000 patrons visit each year with more than 300 use dates that boast a variety of experiences.

The Harris Center’s mission is to enrich the lives of people throughout the region by providing venues and opportunities to experience artistic work, celebrate cultural traditions and participate in the creative process.

The Harris Center is a busy hub of activity all year. Anchoring each season is a compelling Broadway musical schedule with more than 25 performances. Patrons are also able to choose from a wide variety of shows presented by the Harris Center.

The theater also serves as a rental venue for the community and its legacy partners, including the Folsom Lake Symphony, Folsom Concert Association, The Pops Chorale & Orchestra and El Dorado Musical Theatre.

Folsom Lake College’s visual and performing arts students also utilize all three stages, with more than 27 student productions each year.