There’s good news for children and teenagers who love the arts in Hoboken. The City has announced it is expanding its programs this spring. According to the Division of Cultural Affairs, more than 130 kids took part in the programs last fall.
The programs are open to children aged 1 to 16. They will run for eight weeks from March 17 through May 17 at the Multi-Service Center Senior Room, located at 124 Grand Street, and the ResilienCity Park Community Room at 13th and Adams Streets.
In a statement, Mayor Ravi Bhalla said, “These programs reflect Hoboken’s commitment to providing accessible, high-quality arts education for our youth. From painting and sewing to theater and dance, these classes offer creative opportunities that will help inspire confidence, nurture talent, and build lifelong skills. I’m proud that we are expanding these offerings, including more options for children with special needs, to ensure all of Hoboken’s youth can benefit from these enriching programs.”
A city press release says the Division of Cultural Affairs initially launched the art programs last fall. Due to the programs’ popularity, the Division will offer more sessions this spring, giving more children the opportunity to participate in various creative programs designed to inspire and develop artistic skills. The City will also offer new classes such as, two additional dance programs, including one for special needs children, and a new theater program.
For toddlers aged 1 to 4, Art in the Park offers an eight-week indoor/outdoor program with activities such as arts and crafts, story time, and music. My Mini Museum invites children aged 5 to 7 to join an art exploration club where they can use renowned artists as inspiration to create their own works of art. Fashion and Upcycling, for ages 10 to 16, teaches participants how to design and create their own fashion pieces using upcycled clothing.
In addition, there are other offerings. These include Dance, where children between the ages of 6 and 16 will learn the basics of hip hop while developing rhythm, coordination, and individual style. Classes will also be available and specifically designed for children with special needs.
Theater Games and Theater Sports, for ages 6 to 13, provide an introduction to improvisation and theater activities, building confidence, communication skills, and teamwork. A new Theater Sports class has been added this spring, offering a deeper dive into these skills with a focus on performance.
Additionally, Sewing and Design, for children aged 6 to 9, introduces the basics of hand sewing, encouraging creativity through design.
Registration for all programs will open on Tuesday, February 18, at 5 p.m. at hoboken.recdesk.com.