Classes

Education is one of the Institute's primary goals. One of the primary ways we carry out this goal is through performances, lecture demonstrations, and workshops that assist teachers in integrating Chinese performing arts lessons into the curriculum. Our customized, interactive programs are designed to take children from pre-performance preparations to on-stage action.

Since 1996, the Institute's performers have visited 150 local area schools, introducing 60,000 school children to the Chinese traditional performing arts.

"The highlight of our whole study on China! We cannot recommend it too highly."

- Clare Turner The Hill School, Middleburg, VA

Workshops

WCSCOI's educational workshops give schoolchildren a glimpse into the world of Chinese opera. Since 1996, WCSCOI has visited over 200 local schools, introducing more than 100,000 school children to the Chinese traditional performing arts.

The Institute's entertaining and educational workshops are wonderful way to introduce children and adults to the rich culture and history of China. Workshops can be tailored or geared for a certain age group or specific schools need. They range from 30 minutes to one hour and include a period of interaction with the actors involved in the opera. The show-and-tell portion gives the audience an up close look at the face painting and facial movements as well as the elaborate costumes and martial arts that that are critical to Chinese Opera arts.

"The performances and demonstrations were absolutely intriguing! The audience was fascinated by the make-up colors, costumes, acrobatics and singing. What a delightful introduction to Peking Opera!"

- Monica Jeffries Strathmore Hall Arts Center

Please Contact Us for more information on how to set up a workshop for your school.

Summer Workshops

The Institute offer intensive summer workshops that provide a unique opportunity for children of all backgrounds to enter into the world of Chinese opera and experience the sheer joy of performing.

With its combination of exotic costuming, enthralling music, and exhilarating acrobatics Chinese opera captures the hearts of children. Self-confidence, physical fitness, and deeper understanding of Chinese culture are just a few of the benefits students take away from the summer classes.

Many of our students have gone on to pursue arts-related careers in college. But what students remember most is the fun!

"They teach students how to speak, sing, fight and move in full costume. The result is a strong sense of identity and pride."

- Dr. Terence Liu National Endowment for the Arts