About Us
Welcome to Arts Alive's 26th year!
Arts Alive runs a summer school in the month of July, offering courses in dance, drama, music and visual/applied art to people ranging in age from 3 years to adult. Our many introductory classes allow families to explore a particular art form without great expense, while advanced classes allow participants to improve their skills in a relaxed, fun atmosphere. Our program is always evolving to present a mix of classes for everyone.
Arts Alive is a non-profit registered charitable organization developed by School District 68 and the City of Nanaimo Parks Recreation and Culture Department, with the purpose of promoting interest in the visual and performing arts in the Nanaimo region. Since our first program in 1984, we have developed and run a variety of fine arts classes, programs and workshops every year. Low class fees and a bursary program ensure full community participation in the fine arts.
Most classes are held in a central location to provide easy access for the community and registration can be done at all City of Nanaimo Parks, Recreation and Culture Department locations, by telephone or on-line.
Week-long day camps for 5-10year olds explore all four areas of the fine arts. Each week has a different theme; art projects relate to this theme and participants create sets and costumes for a final performance of a short play they've written and rehearsed. One of our most popular programs, Senior Musical Theatre for students from 12 to 17+, provides students with an opportunity to experience performing in a professional environment, giving community audiences an inexpensive and enjoyable theatre experience.
A volunteer Board of Directors runs Arts Alive, with assistance from a part-time Executive Assistant. Instructors are drawn from the local professional fine arts community. Corporate and community sponsorship provides valuable support to Arts Alive, allowing quality, affordable education for Nanaimo region youth. Community volunteers, including youths in volunteer programs such as the City of Nanaimo LIT/Quest program, assist with preparation and running of the summer school.
For more information, please email us at isldrum@telus.net