PHILIPSBURG:--- The National Institute of Art has held its Open House on Saturday, August 30th, 2013 at the John Larmonie Center in Philipsburg. The Open House called the NIA Family Fun Day was well attended by prospective students and artists alike in the fields of Dance, Music, Comedy, Theater, Drama to Contemporary Traditions. The Open House provided prospective students the opportunity to come in contact with the different forms of art and expression and find areas that interest them. In addition to participating in free art and dance lessons, there was a fashion show, water slide, massages, manicures as well as a flight simulator for kids to interact with. "The Open House was a great success and we met many students who were interested in our classes. Students and parents had a great time interacting with teachers and discovering art," said Clara Reyes, Co-Director of the National Institute of Art, a non-profit foundation with the aim to provide nationally and internationally recognized interdisciplinary art.
Classes are now in full swing at the newly established National Institute of Art. The NIA would like to remind parents that classes have started for the new school year and to take the opportunity to sign up their children. The NIA offers a wide range of classes and programs in the visual and performing arts. "Our doors are open to all who wish to partake in the creative art experience," welcomed Arlene Halley, Co-Director of the NIA. Classes are available in areas such as Caribbean Folk Techniques, Modern Dance Techniques, Ballet and other dance genres, Voice Lessons, Art Classes, Drumming, and Theatre. Children's classes start at $35/month for one class a week and adults can buy an Adult Class Card for $75 for 10 classes. Drop in rate is $12. For more Information about the National Institute of Arts, please visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/NationalInstituteOfArts.
The official launch of the NIA is slated for October following its founding on April 11, 2013 by the merging of two prominent dance schools on the island, Imbali Center for Art and Movement and Motiance Dance School. The launch, called The NIA Festival of Arts and Culture will feature various theatrical and dance performances and exhibits at the school. "The launch is meant to be a celebration of arts and culture for the community of St. Maarten. Art plays such an important role is safe-guarding our cultural heritage," states Arlene Halley, Co-director of the National Institute of Art. "We hope that community will come out to join us," Ms. Halley added.