Gold Award Spotlight: Opening Up the Opera
Girl Scout Ambassador Mary earned her Gold Award by completing a service project she titled, “Opening Up the Opera.” Mary is passionate about opera and wanted to improve the accessibility and appreciation of opera for students. To do so, she created an informational brochure featuring repertoire geared towards children that represents distinct vocal types found in opera. She also planned, promoted, and executed a free in-person event at the Harrison Opera in Norfolk, VA in cooperation with Rachel Ginzberg, Director of Artistic Operations for the Virginia Opera. The event featured four singers and an accompanist from the Virginia Opera hired by Mary using personal funds earned and donations, along with a vocal performance from Mary herself.
Mary felt that as a student, she could bridge a gap and share her passion for the arts with other students. She said, “The lack of availability of educational resources for young people by other students makes it more difficult to understand the meaningfulness and timelessness of opera.” The Girl Scout continued, “I have been lucky enough to experience opera-related programs and wish to give back this gift.”
Mary’s project was proudly supported by the Virginia Opera who provided recording, facilitation and website space for the project. Rachel Ginzberg, Director of Artistic Operations for the Virginia Opera said, “She [Mary] has inspired us to begin exploring the creation of a “Kids’ Corner” on our education page with her project serving as the inaugural piece!”
Congratulations, Mary!
