Program Philosophy

We believe it is a right, not a privilege, for every youth to have a creative life, to experience art, and to express themselves creatively regardless of skill level and/or socioeconomic status, and develop their own creative capital.  

Our philosophy to arts education is inspired by the story of Walter Suskind.

SpectrumBoston, a city-wide collaboration aimed to engage diverse audiences in the abundance of arts and culture that Boston offers, brought a unique array of interactive programming to city communities. Watch the video to learn more.

Using SpectrumBoston’s approach we are able to focus on city-wide collaboration aimed at involving diverse audiences in the various arts and culture opportunities available in Boston.

The Citi Performing Arts Center’s education program aims to reach people of all backgrounds by providing free and low-cost events that are broad-based and culturally diverse   

We are committed to an arts education model that delivers depth, breadth, and impact through city-wide collaboration.  We take a holistic approach to arts education and community outreach based on the following themes:  Youth Development, Community Learning, and Access.

Youth Development

We believe youth who have a creative life become thinkers, doers and leaders.  Our programs provide life skills training in a creative environment to targeted youth.  Our youth development work/study arts program integrates paid internships, leadership and job readiness training, and role model mentors.

Community Learning

We believe arts-linked youth programs improve schools’ success, engage families and strengthen communities.  Playing a leadership role in arts program delivery and resource coordination via Boston Centers for Youth and Families Community Learning Initiative, Boston Public Libraries, and the Boston Public School’s Acceleration Agenda, we offer both in-school and out-of-school time programming.   Our arts integration programs for youth highlights family, school and community linkages.

Access and Equity

We believe families and youth, regardless of socioeconomic status, are positively inspired by experiencing and creating art.  Focusing on broad-based access and outreach into Boston’s diverse neighborhoods, our free events and programs celebrate the power of art through local talent, original creative works, and professional performances.

Whether your interest is as an active participant or as an enthusiastic audience member, our programs will show you that the arts are for everyone and can make a difference in everyday lives.