THANK YOU
This has been a challenging time for us all, but children and educators have felt it more than most. As principal of Wolseley School, Brian Rogowsky has been fearlessly leading his elementary students through a school year like no other.
Wolseley School has benefited from a variety of Manitoba Opera’s classic education programs over the years. Mr. Rogowsky cites Opera in a Trunk as a favourite. “The sheer presence of seeing a giant trunk full of interesting items garnishes student interest right away.” Al Simmons’ one-man interpretation of The Barber of Seville is another standout.
This school year looks different. The pandemic has ushered in a flurry of change and innovation, with students increasingly using technology as a tool to deliver and enhance their learning. Thanks to Canada Life, our Education & Community Engagement Sponsor, Manitoba Opera is rising to the occasion with a new portfolio of online educational content.
Like Manitoba Opera, Canada Life believes that opera education programs build confidence, encourage creativity, and enhance self-expression. Opera teaches children that people with different strengths and abilities – from singing to painting, from writing to building – can work together to create something incredible.
Canada Life’s support of online opera education empowers Manitoba Opera to meet kids where they are. As our Education & Outreach Coordinator, Dr. Scott Miller, explains, “We’re meeting them on the screen and engaging with them directly through the medium they’re using to learn.”
Canada Life’s leadership in both the arts and culture and education sectors in Manitoba makes the organization a natural partner for Manitoba Opera. The company donates a minimum of 1% of average pre-tax profits to non-profit, charitable, and community organizations every year.
In the new year, thanks to Canada Life, Manitoba Opera will reach more children than ever with education programming. “We can come to them,” Dr. Miller explains, “even if they’re 5,000 kilometres away.”
