Kravis Center Invites Adults Back to School with ArtSmart Continuing Education Programs
September 2, 2026 | Press ReleaseNew courses designed to inspire the inner artist include Juilliard Extension lectures Broadway singing, dementia-friendly chorus, dance, movement, improv and more
(West Palm Beach, Fla.) Why should kids have all the fun? The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts announces the upcoming adult classes offered through its ArtSmart Continuing Education programming. Understanding the benefits of lifelong arts education on the mental, physical and social well-being, ArtSmart includes opportunities across a range of artistic mediums, including the classical concert lectures, dementia-friendly community chorus, singing, movement, dance, writing and more.
This year, the Kravis Center is proud to introduce Juilliard Extension @ Kravis: Classical Concert Lectures with John V. Sinclair. These engaging lectures, in collaboration with Juilliard Extension, invite attendees to deepen their knowledge, connect more fully with the music and experience each concert with fresh insight and a new sense of discovery. Programs include Beethoven and His Legacy on December 2, The Romantic Orchestra on January 13 and From Folk Music to Grand Concert Halls on February 3.
The inspiring ArtSmart series launches its entire lineup with The Memory Makers: Dementia-Friendly Community Chorus on Tuesdays from September 29 – December 15. Alongside their care partners, participants will discover the power of music to connect, uplift and inspire in this course designed for individuals living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. This joyful program centers on shared song, meaningful connection and a sense of belonging.
Next, feel the rhythm with Kravis Moves: Every Body Dance Classes every Tuesday from October 6 through November 17 and February 2 – March 9. Led by Kori Epps, the 6-week inclusive course is for adults of all abilities. Participants explore movement through creativity, musicality and self-expression in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Love showtunes? Then get ready to Sing Broadway! Instructor Janda Taylor leads this no-experience-required, six-week course where students use musical theater songs to learn healthy vocal technique, breath control and how to bring a song to life. Classes run Thursdays from October 15 – November 19.
Those who are looking to paint their world with the power of words will find inspiration during The Writer’s Toolbox on October 21 and the Changemakers Writing Workshop on Tuesdays, October 6 – November 10. Led by celebrated author Julie Gilbert, The Writer’s Toolbox is a verbal guidebook of tackling you and your inner muse. Students learn how to harness and apply their enthusiasm to their writing project while retaining curiosity, energy and joy. Changemakers Writing Workshop, led by Dr. Michelle Winkler is designed for high school and college students looking to make a difference. Students will see a PEAK Series performance of Where Did We Sit on the Bus?, gain a perspective on social justice issues and respond to them through discussion, writing and the development of an action plan to impact change.
Celebrate the connection of mind and body with creativity and community during Joy of Movement from January 14 – February 4. Led by Kori Epps, this no-fear course is open to anyone, whether sure-footed or those suffering from “two-left feet.” Participants can move to great music without worrying about technique in this special program created to experience and enjoy the broader themes of dance.
Get ready to say “yes, and…” get silly during the On-the-Spot Improv Workshop on February 18. Led by Marisa Palazzotto, participants will learn improv from its first principles of listening and agreeing to working as a group to create and perform side-splitting scenes out of thin air.
Finally, Let’s Dance! This open-level Theater Dance workshop takes place February 26 and is designed for adults of all backgrounds. Instructor Herman Payne leads dancers on an exploration of the joy of storytelling through movement.
Additional “back-to-school electives” include the Kravis Center’s Lunch & Learn series which offers a sumptuous, catered meal along with a fascinating lecture from world experts on a range of diverse topics.
Program dates, times and fees can be found at www.kravis.org/education-community/community-education-programs/artsmart-classes/.
About the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts:
The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is one of South Florida’s premier performing arts centers located in Downtown West Palm Beach. Since 1992 the Kravis Center has hosted the very best in live entertainment featuring internationally acclaimed artists in music, comedy, dance, Broadway and more. Since opening its doors, the Kravis Center has welcomed millions of students to its comprehensive arts education programs. Students of all ages can participate in a variety of workshops, classes and special events, as well as free and reduced-price tickets to those who might not otherwise have the chance to experience live performances. For information, please visit kravis.org
*All programs, artists, ticket prices, availability, dates and times are subject to change without notice. Visit kravis.org for up-to-date information.
Media Contacts:
Director of Public Relations Public Relations and Social Media Coordinator
Charlotte Vermaak Adriana Bøckman-Pedersen
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Education Public Relations
Elizabeth Dashiell
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