Дети клуба Boys and Girls Club посетили оперу Tri-Cities и узнали о карьерных возможностях в искусстве

Tri-Cities Opera gives Boys and Girls Club of Binghamton in-depth look at its facility BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WBNG) -- After spending some time learning more about how an opera works, children at the Boys and Girls Club in Binghamton got a chance to tour Tri-Cities Opera Wednesday. “It’s really very special for our kids because in the past, we’ve had a few drama classes or dance, but nothing to this extent where they really are learning,” said Mary Beth Smith, executive director of the Boys and Girls Club in Binghamton. “They’re learning about something that’s right up the street from us and something in our community.” The visit is part of a new partnership called the TCO Creative Lab. The lab allows children to learn more about what goes on behind the scenes at Tri-Cities Opera, focusing on topics such as storytelling, artistic expression and craftsmanship of opera. “I want them to see that there is absolutely a place for them in this art form,” said Education Coordinator at Tri-Cities Opera Julia Grella O’Connell. “Whether it’s singing or whether it’s stage management or whether it’s box office or whether it’s marketing, administration, that there are so many career opportunities in this art form and that they can seize hold of them and make those opportunities their own.” Additionally, the kids got to meet artists, see props and experience learning more about their community. “For them to understand what our community is all about and giving back to our community is very important because we tell them everything we do at the Boys and Girls Club, it’s because of the community,” said Smith. “It’s because of what people care enough, and they want to do things for us.” “We couldn’t be doing this excellent work without the generous support of the Broome County Youth Bureau,” added Grella O’Connell. “It’s through their funding that this whole thing is possible.” Tri-Cities Opera will also offer this experience to other youth education programs. Those interested in learning more about the TCO Creative Lab can email [email protected]. Copyright 2026 WBNG. All rights reserved.