Performing Arts
Many youth enjoy performing, whether as an actor, dancer or singer. Being in the spotlight gives kids increased confidence and the ability to make instantaneous decisions, especially when they learn how to improvise and to build their skills in related areas, like producing and directing. They develop new techniques and also learn about technology.
Featured Program - Talented Kids Galore
Thanks to a generous grant from the Westside Children's Center through the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), we were able to provide a Create Now Talent Show on August 11th at the Westside Pavilion shopping mall in West Los Angeles.
There were 18 children and youth who participated in the Talent Show. For most of the kids, it was the first time they got to perform in public, experiencing butterflies of excitement as they shared their unique gifts with the crowd. Our M.C., Ashley Jones, did a spectacular job of hosting the event. Ashley is the 2012 “Mrs. California USA.” She has been mentoring homeless children in arts and crafts at the San Fernando Valley Rescue Mission shelter since March.
There was quite a crowd present, especially since these kids performed so well. Not only were their families and friends there to cheer them on, but many Westside Pavilion shoppers were drawn to the event when they heard the amazing performances.
Featured Program - Talent Show at the Westside Pavilion
Throughout the summer, Create Now hosted weekly workshops in singing, dance and theatre on Saturday afternoons at the Westside Pavilion shopping mall in West Los Angeles, thanks to one of our partners, the Westside Children's Center with support from the DCFS.
Our free workshops were for children and youth of all ages. The kids were invited to learn from professionals in these fields. Samantha Parks, teacher of our Singing Workshop, remarked, “It's very rewarding to witness the kids grow from shy and coy to comfortable and excited in the span of two hours!! The best part, for me, are the hugs I receive afterwards. They're filled with so much gratitude. This experience has helped me evolve in a positive light.”
Karla Meeks is a resident of the transitional living shelter Upward Bound House near Culver City. She was there with her granddaughter Macayla. "This program is amazing! I didn't know that there would be free classes like this for my granddaughter. She loves every minute of it and can't stop performing for the entire week. She tumbles and sings all the time now. I can't believe that Create Now provides this to so many people. It's just too good to be true!"
More Featured Programs
Dancing Gangs Away in Koreatown
Neglected Kids Dance Pain Away
Homeless Kids Show Off
Inspired Talent Show
Dance Encourages Foster Girls
Ballet Brings Joy to Abused Kids
From Hollywood to Hollygrove
Fostering Laughter
Dance for Foster Youth