Arts education is a vital part of the Flynn’s mission. Our educational programs have been nationally recognized as models by the Kennedy Center’s Changing Education Through the Arts program, the Association of Performing Arts Presenters, and the Dana Foundation. We believe in overcoming barriers to participation—through scholarships, ticket subsidies, grant programs, and courses that explore and embrace diverse perspectives—because everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the arts and experience the wonder and joy of creative expression.
In Flynn classes, curiosity meets discovery and passion meets expression! We believe that every person has a unique spark and it’s our mission to help you find it through the arts. Plus, the performing arts have far-reaching benefits, building social skills, problem solving, confidence, cooperation, and emotional intelligence, no matter your age or experience level. Across our year-round classes for kids, teens, and adults—broken into summer/fall and winter/spring semester—our nurturing teaching artists provide expert instruction and create a welcoming environment in our professional quality studios, inspiring joy and nurturing self-expression.
Flynn camps, offered during school vacation breaks and over the summer, are for anyone age 3-19. Taught by professional educators and performing artists, our camps chart a creative path for young people through a wealth of art forms. And our Summertime Jazz programs and Summer Youth Theater productions provide talented and passionate students the opportunity to develop and showcase their skills in a challenging, supportive, and inspiring environment. Camps are held in our studios and on our stages, as well as off-site at partner locations through collaborations with wonderful institutions, including Vermont Public Radio, UVM, Shelburne Farms, Burlington City Arts, Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, ECHO, Lake Champlain Chocolates, and the Rokeby Museum.
In masterclasses and workshops, participants work with incredible guest artists who offer sessions while they are in town to perform at the Flynn. Past instructors include greats like jazz pianist Arturo O’Farrill, Broadway playwright Dan Elish, acclaimed theatrical outfit The Acting Company, choreographer Liz Lerman, The Russian National Ballet, MOMIX, Alvin Ailey American Dance Company, Merce Cunningham Dance Company, and many more world-class performing artists. Local artists of note are also invited to share their unique perspectives. And our special family workshops take kids behind the scenes after performances to see how the magic is made!