Performing Arts Education
Performing Arts Experiences for 16,000+ Students Each Year
The Lensic serves approximately 16,000 K-12 students annually with free arts education programs that engage and inspire, support school curriculum, encourage creativity and creative thinking, introduce careers, and provide hands-on training.
We reach students with limited access to the arts, including those from low-income families, at-risk youth, and students with autism/developmental delays.
Our programs create completely free and frictionless experiences for these students, from covering costs for the buses that take students to free matinees at our historic theater, to bringing world-class artists into classrooms for intimate masterclasses that fit within a normal school day’s schedule.
The Santa Fe Public School district, which our programs mostly serve, reports seventy percent of students are on the Free/Reduced Price Lunch program, indicating a high number of students are living in low-income households. With limited funding for arts education, school districts in New Mexico need the support of programs like the Lensic’s to provide the vital experience of exposure and involvement with the arts.
Learn more about the reach of our programs on page 7 of the 2025 Impact Report.
Help us continue these life-changing programs for New Mexico kids. Your support enriches the lives of 16,000 students each year.
Arts Educators
Teachers:
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Student Matinees
Every year, thousands of local kids attend free performances at the Lensic.
Technical Theater Internships
Hands-on training prepares teens for careers behind the curtain.
Flamenco Residency
Three-week bilingual residencies teach students about flamenco’s history and culture through singing, dancing, and guitar, culminating in a performance at the Lensic.
Rural Arts Residency
The Rural Arts Residency travels to schools and organizations in Northern New Mexico to bring performing arts programs to underserved audiences.
Hocus Focus
Magician and educator Kevin Spencer works magic in special needs classrooms.
Film & Photography Programs
Young, aspiring image-makers tell their stories using film, video, and photography.
Class Acts & Angel Tickets
Teachers and students enjoy free tickets and local social service groups receive free tickets for kids.
Program Notes
Our Program Notes series provides opportunities for audiences to learn more about the performance or artists on stage.
Grant support for the Lensic’s education programs comes from:
Las Campanas Community Fund
The Kind World Foundation
Hankins Foundation
Lineberry Foundation
Community Educators Network
Frederick H. Leonhardt Foundation
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