ArtSpeak! is a free program for students that brings performing artists to Washington, DC area schools to raise interest in and awareness of theater and the arts.
ArtSpeak! events are panel discussions with question and answer sessions, contests and games. In addition, all guests perform onstage. The program is open to anyone, but is aimed at students; adults are welcome but are encouraged to bring a student along. There is no charge for attending, no tickets or reservations are required, and admission is first come first served.
ArtSpeak! events tour different high schools in the DC area. There are currently four events per year.
ArtSpeak! is educational and fun. In addition to developing an appreciation for the arts, students can win autographed CDs by playing “ArtSpeak! Trivia” or participating in “Three Questions,” where students conduct their own interview with the artists on stage.
ArtSpeak! is targeted at high school students but is appropriate for those in middle school and for mature elementary school students. The event typically lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes. It is held in the evenings, not during school hours, in order to be accessible to the whole community.
ArtSpeak! ends with an autograph signing, allowing students to directly interact with the artists. Autograph sheets are provided.