NARRATIVE

Creative Tableaux is a free, year-long educational program that immerses participants in the world of opera by integrating various art forms. This unique initiative combines opera, visual arts, work-based learning internships, and free tickets to create an engaging and dynamic educational experience for students-young professionals aged 13-22 and community members with a special focus on underserved communities. In collaboration with professional opera creatives and visual arts experts, we inspire the next generation of opera and arts enthusiasts, performers, creatives, and supporters. Through the program, we aim to instill a lifelong love for the arts in the hearts of young students and community members, empowering them to become the next generation of opera enthusiasts, performers, and supporters.

We believe it is important to promote opera as an art form in connection with other art forms, and “Creative Tableaux” does just that. Our program offers a comprehensive experience that explores the intersections between opera, visual art, and education.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

The primary goals of Creative Tableaux are as follows:

a. To foster an understanding and appreciation for opera among students and New York communities.

b. To promote the values of collaboration, creativity, and art education.

c. To stimulate critical thinking and expand participants’ artistic horizons.

d. To create unique and engaging experiences that combine opera and visual arts.

e. To provide valuable working-based learning internships to High School students.

HISTORY
Creative Tableaux is the continuation of our successful 2021 “Tableaux of Amico Fritz”.

Over the span of 2021 to 2022, we had the privilege of engaging with 4000 students and community members. In June 2023 and 2024, we furthered our commitment to enriching lives by conducting a series of school and community workshops, masterclasses and working-based learning internships and extended invitations to these enthusiastic participants for a complimentary performance of Mozart’s timeless masterpiece, Don Giovanni, at Riverside Theater on June 17th 2023 and Donizetti’s Elixir of Love at the Flea Theater on June 1st and 2nd 2024. Our audience, comprised of passionate individuals from diverse backgrounds, including members of God’s Love We Deliver, the LGTBQ Center of NYC, The Hudson Guild, and several public schools, enthusiastically filled the venue, resulting in a sold-out shows.

ROGRAM GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY:

• Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation
• Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF)
• Marcia Ragonetti Bel Canto Fund
• This program is supported, in part, by Public Funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in Partnership with the City Council.
• This program is supported, in part, by Public Funds from the New York State Counsil on the Arts.
• This program is supported, in part, by Eric Bottcher, District 3.

The program is split into two parts:

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

OBJECTIVES

To engage participants in the creative process behind opera production, focusing on color-blocking, design decisions, and storytelling *

on the first part of this interactive, program, we walk participants through the creative process of an opera:

• How an opera is commissioned and written (for new operas)
• How we create the visual elements (sets and costumes) of a new operatic production.
• When possible, set up basis for working-based learning internships.

* part one is offered in person and online via zoom.

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PROGRAM STRUCTURE

1. Introduction to Opera (2 hours)*

- Overview of opera as an art form.

- History of opera and its significance in the performing arts.

- Interactive discussion on opera’s storytelling elements and visual arts integration.

2. Creative Workshops (4 +hours)*

- Introduction to the 2025 productions: The Tin Angel, Le Nozze di Figaro and L’Amico Fritz.

- Insight into the creative process behind color-blocking and design decisions.

- Hands-on activities guided by creative teams, focusing on costume design and color selection.

- For Arts High Schools: start working with student groups on working-based learning internships.

3. Group Activities (3 hours)*

- Facilitated group discussions on key concepts and themes.

- Hands-on experiences related to opera production, such as set design mock-ups or costume sketches.

4. Wrap-up and Reflection (1 hour)

- Review of key concepts learned during the program.

- Reflection on personal insights and connections made between opera, storytelling, and visual arts.

- Discussion on possible future engagement opportunities, including Work Based Learning Internships.

Inclusivity and Diversity practices:

- Ensure all discussions and presentations are inclusive, using gender-fluid language and respectful formulations.

- Respect and represent all cultures and races in examples and discussions.

- Encourage participants to share diverse perspectives and experiences related to the arts.

Follow-up Opportunities:

- Provide information on Teatro Grattacielo’s ongoing programs and performances for continued engagement.

- Share resources for further learning and exploration in opera and the arts.

- Community and Student feedback sessions.

*sessions can be customized to fit school curriculum

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2025 GUEST PRESENTERS

- David Santiago, Set and Interior Designer

- Stefanos Koroneos, Director and Designer

- Angela Huff, Costume Designer

- Sarah Rose Johnson, Costume Designer

- Robert Di Mauro, Lifestyle Commentator, HSFI Board Member, IPP Founder

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STUDENT AND COMMUNITY free opera performances at La MaMa, creative shares

Young and underserved community members, public school students retirees and volunteers, are invited to attend full-scale opera performances for free at our partnering theaters. These performances serve as the culmination of Part One, where participants have the opportunity to experience in person everything they learned during the program. Students who participated in work-based internships have the chance to create or perform in close collaboration with opera professionals.

Through our program, we give away 25% of our tickets for free to students and the community, amounting to $9,000 in free tickets annually. Audiences have the opportunity to attend full-scale opera performances at La MaMa, creative shares.

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​SCHOLARSHIPS

•Teatro Grattacielo is offering two (2) $500 scholarships to students who write the best essay about the project
•Requirements: 1-page written essay
•Theme: The theme of the essay is up to the teacher, but it must be connected to CREATIVE TABLEAUX
•Deadline: October 31, 2025
•Winners Announced: December 15, 2025

GENERAL INFORMATION

Our two trained staff will connect with you and your students by request, for free, OR your teacher can use our user-friendly guide/script.
Please click here for information about Teatro Grattacielo, its educational mission and info about our cast and creative team.
To learn more about our STORIES, please click here.
If you need further information or any assistance, please contact our Artistic Director Stefanos Koroneos at: stefanoskoroneos@grattacielo.org

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In 2024, Teatro Grattacielo continued to expand its commitment to arts education, fostering the next generation of creative minds through hands-on experiences in opera production. Through our Creative Tableaux program, work-based learning internships, interactive workshops, and community presentations, we provided invaluable artistic and professional development opportunities for students of all backgrounds with special attention to immigrant communities.

Workshops & Work-Based Learning Internships

This year, we proudly collaborated with students from the High School of Fashion Industries, Frank Sinatra School of the Arts, Seton Hall University, North Bergen High School, and Harrison Public Library to bring opera to life in dynamic and innovative ways.

Seton Hall University – Opera Immersion (November 2024)
We welcomed female and trans students from Seton Hall University for a workshop and work-based learning internship, integrating them into the chorus of Donizetti’s L’Elisir d’Amore. Over two immersive days, students worked alongside Artistic Director Stefanos Koroneos and Professor Jason Tramm, gaining hands-on performance experience.

High School of Fashion Industries – Costume & Production Internships (February–June 2024)
Our work-based learning internship program allowed students to explore costume and production design in an operatic setting. From styling training to hands-on fittings and creative discussions with our singers, students played a key role in shaping the visual storytelling of L’Elisir d’Amore.

Frank Sinatra School of the Arts – Creative Process & Auditions (March-July 2024)
At the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts, we introduced students to the creative process behind opera through an interactive workshop. Students also had the unique opportunity to audition for supporting roles, bringing them one step closer to the stage.

Community Engagement – North Bergen High School & Harrison Public Library (February & May 2024)
Our interactive workshops engaged students and local communities, offering an inside look at operatic production. Through coloring workshops, discussions on costume design, and previews of our staging concepts, we brought opera’s magic to new audiences.

Expanding Creative Opportunities
From interactive workshops to hands-on internships, our 2024 initiatives inspired young artists to explore performance, design, and storytelling in opera. As we move forward into 2025, we are excited to bring even more opportunities to emerging artists and expand our commitment to creative education!

As part of our commitment to fostering young talent, we awarded two outstanding students scholarships through our Creative Tableaux program:

Anthony Jimenez Peña (Mexico, 10 years old) – Graphic Design
Anthony’s exceptional creativity and passion for visual storytelling made him a standout recipient. His work showcases a sophisticated understanding of design principles that exceeds expectations for his age.

Huntersky Farrell-Conlan (17 years old) – Costume Design
Huntersky’s talent and innovation in costume design blend historical influences with modern aesthetics. Their dedication and eye for detail promise an exciting future in theater and beyond.

MAY 2023 - PART ONE - Carmen

We are excited to share that on May 10th, 2023, we presented our educational program, Creative Tableaux, to 800 enthusiastic kids. This interactive program consisted of a presentation, Q&A, and a mini performance of G. Bizet’s Carmen with a full orchestra. Most of these students have never heard or been in an opera performance.

​JUNE 2023 - PART ONE - Don Giovanni - Dominican Academy

We present PART ONE of Creative Tableaux at Dominican Academy in NYC on June 19th! This interactive session was filled with engaging Q&As, captivating projections, and hands-on set/costume workshops.

JUNE 2023 - PART ONE - Don Giovanni - Harrison Public Library

We presented PART ONE of Creative Tableaux at the Harrison Public Library on June 19th! This interactive session was filled with engaging Q&As, captivating projections, and hands-on set/costume workshops.

JUNE 2023 - PART TWO - Don Giovanni - The Riverside Theater

On the evening of June 17th, the Riverside Theater in New York City buzzed with an electric atmosphere of creativity and inclusivity as we took the stage to present Mozart’s timeless masterpiece, Don Giovanni. This performance marked a significant milestone in the second part of our innovative multidisciplinary and intergenerational educational program, aptly named “Creative Tableaux.” The audience was comprised of an enthusiastic and diverse group, including members from several NYC public schools, seniors from the Hudson Guilt, volunteers from God’s Love We Deliver, members and staff of the LGBTQ Center of NY, and the general public.

In line with our commitment to inclusivity, we assembled a diverse cast and crew for this rendition of Don Giovanni. Our unwavering belief in the power of diversity shone through as talents from various backgrounds seamlessly fused together, delivering a vibrant and representative portrayal of Mozart’s work of art.

Embracing the creative energy of New York City, we infused the performance with elements that pushed the boundaries of traditional opera. Taking inspiration from the bold storytelling and vivid aesthetics of Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar, the production of Don Giovanni unfolded like a mesmerizing cinematic experience on stage. The characters sprang to life with vibrant colors, exuberant costumes, and innovative staging, captivating the audience and immersing them in a fresh and exhilarating way of perceiving opera.

​OCTOBER 2023 - PART TWO- La Vestale - Gerald Lynch Theater

In October 2028, we collaborated with 40 talented young student-performers from the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts High School. Together, we immersed ourselves in the journey of staging an operatic production, covering everything from musical rehearsals to staging, working with opera professional singers and creative teams, culminating in orchestral rehearsals. The pinnacle of this transformative experience was their performance in our main production of “La Vestale” at the prestigious Gerald Lynch Theater on October 28th.

​NOVEMBER 2023 - PART TWO- The 10 Faces of Maria Callas- New York City

On November 16th, 2023, our emerging artists captivated a vibrant audience of 700 at the Greek Cathedral in NYC with a concert-educational community program titled “The 10 Faces of Maria Callas.” The event delved into the life, career, and humanitarian essence of the legendary soprano Maria Callas, presented in an engaging and educational style. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm as the young talents shared the rich legacy of this iconic figure through music, creating an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

CLICK BELOW TO DOWNLOAD TABLEAUX’S POWERPOINT PRESENTATION

DOWNLOAD THE COMPREHENSIVE 2024 FULL REPORT HERE