This probably isn’t a secret, but I have an intense passion for the performing arts. I guess this explains why I felt the need to create this intimate chamber music experience D-Composed. You may have heard about it 🙂 From the ballet to the opera, sitting in a theatre is my type of night out.

When I got word that Chicago now has a new initiative from Urban Gateways called The Teen Arts Pass that allows teens access to the fine arts, I was beyond thrilled.

The Teen Arts Pass is a game changer, and I can’t wait to share it with all the teens in my life.

But first, I wanted to give a little bit of background as to why I’m so passionate about the performing arts.

My Introduction to the Arts

I‘ve been into the performing arts for as long as I can remember. When I was about 6 I attended my first symphony, which was basically my sister’s middle school orchestra. My Mom took us to the local community college so we could see all types of plays and ballets. At the time I may have been bored out of my mind, however, my parents were planting a seed that would later develop my passions and interests of today.

I think a lot of the times when we think of the ballet or the opera, we think it’s an activity reserved for the wealthy. We prescribe labels such as cultured and well-refined. Attributes, that we assume only apply to a certain group of people.

That message was never given to me or received. My parents did what they could to reinforce that the world is truly my oyster and I should be able to have access to any and everything – even if it was just on a local level.

I share this, because without my early exposure to the performing arts, I’m sure The Chicagolite would look very different. I wouldn’t have had the encourage to occupy the spaces and the worlds that I proudly inhabit today.

I’m forever grateful for my parents for introducing me to this world and I look forward to the day I can return the favor to my future children.

While I don’t have children now, I’m excited to share the wonders of the fine arts with my nieces. This exposure will now be made easier, with the newly launched Teen Arts Pass.

What’s the Teen Arts Pass?

The Teen Arts Pass is a new initiative that allows Chicago teens ages 13-19 to see Chicago productions for $5. Signing up is easy and free of charge. All you have to do is register at  Urbangateways.teenartspass.org

On the day of the show, teens can call one of the participating theaters to see if they have tickets left. Once they show up to the box office, they can flash their teen pass and purchase their ticket for $5. The companion program also allows teens to purchase an additional tickets for individuals whose ages fall outside of the program.

Participating theaters include the Lyric Opera House, Harris Theater, Auditorium Theater, Goodman Theatre and so much more. This means that teens can see a world class ballet and opera for just $5.

I’m incredibly excited about this initiative because this means increased access to the performing arts.

I’ve always believed that exposure is key to our understanding of the world and the people around us and my favorite city is taking the time to nurture the next generation of performing arts enthusiasts.

The Future of Chicago Arts

I’m sure this program will be a breath of fresh air to a Chicago. The audience of the arts typically tends to be on the older side so it’ll be nice seeing some younger faces in the crowd.

Initiatives like these make me incredibly proud to call Chicago home. I hope the thousands of teens that inhabit this city use this pass to its fullest potential.

If you have a teen or know of one, please have them sign up for the Teen Arts Pass.

I wouldn’t be the person I am today without access to the arts and for that I’m incredibly thankful.