The Walnut Street Theatre – America’s Oldest Theatre and the State Theatre of Pennsylvania, founded in 1808. In 1964, Walnut Street Theatre was designated a National Historic Landmark. Then in 1969 the theatre was renovated to become a Performing Arts Center. The Walnut began its incarnation as a self-producing, non-profit regional theatre in 1982, with the Walnut Street Theatre Company and creating The Adopt-a-School Program serving students in K through 8. Their focus is on the complete education, growth, and personal development of at-risk youth, and includes some of Philadelphia’s most economically disadvantaged students. The Walnut Street Theatre Teaching Artists connects with schools for a multi-year residency that brings engaging, accessible arts experiences directly into the classroom. Over four seven-week cycles, students participate in weekly, interactive 45-minute lessons that explore theatre through movement, improvisation, literacy, and creative play. Each program is tailored to meet the unique needs of the school, with teachers and students helping shape the curriculum. The program includes live theatre visits, arts showcases, and professional development for teachers, all rooted in Social Emotional Learning (SEL). Teaching Artists receive specialized training and ongoing support to ensure meaningful, inclusive experiences for every student.
The Legacy Foundation provided a grant supporting the Adopt-A-School Program to help bring in-class arts education, live theatre experiences, and professional development to underserved schools bringing the “arts” into their lives.
For more information, please visit their website at https www.walnutstreettheatre.org.