Exposure to the arts has an amazing positive outcome, especially where kids are concerned. A report from the National Endowment for the Arts reveals that teenagers and young adults of low socioeconomic status had better academic results, showed higher career goals, and were more civically engaged when involved in visual arts, dance, music, theater and other out-of-school arts lessons.
One of the more profoundly creative scenes in the US is Berkeley, California. The east shore city is a well-known center for arts, culture, and culinary experiences. It is also home to diverse museums, featuring interesting bits from modern art to textile. What makes Berkeley’s arts, culture, & museums noteworthy is that they appeal to every age.
Aside from catching a show or two at the Berkeley Repertory Theater or exploring the Berkeley Arts Center, here are other outstanding spaces to visit and shows to see:
Family-Friendly Fun
- Another Bullwinkel Show
The Bullwinkel Show is actually a series of events, which include Chocolate & Chalk Art, Bay Area Book Festival, and the Snow Day in the Gourmet Ghetto, to name a few. Each event takes place at different dates in different areas.
- Glassybaby
It’s an interactive retail store featuring live glass blowing. Take the family for an incredible hands-on glassblowing experience.
- Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse
It’s an award-winning venue for world-class folk music. Apart from the outstanding concerts, it also offers classes and programs for kids
- Ashkenaz Music & Dance Community Center
Introduce the kids to African and Balkan dances, or to Bluegrass and American Roots music. Ashkenaz holds nightly live music and dance classes, with cultural programs for kids.
Grown-up Discoveries
- California Jazz Conservatory
It’s the only accredited, independent conservatory dedicated to jazz—its study and performance. Watch concerts. Take part in workshops.
- Expressions Gallery
In addition to the works of art from local and international artists, you can enjoy poetry readings and literature. And if you see something you love, you can check out BuyArtworkNow.com and purchase it. You can even get something commissioned.
- Central Works
Experience Berkeley’s oldest small professional theater company. With just 50 seats available and world-premiere plays, you’ll love the intimate setting this established theater company has to offer.
Berkeley is also anticipating the grand opening of the Berkeley Art Museum & Pacific Film Archive. Check out the visual arts exhibits. See film screenings and stay for an engaging discussion with filmmakers, authors, and scholars. And definitely experience the contemporary performance art from BAMPF’s L@te series.
For more information and attractions in an around Berkeley be sure to visit our Berkeley Area Attractions page. Book your stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Berkeley Marina and enjoy Berkeley’s Art, Culture and Museums year round!
*Photo Courtesy of www.VisitBerkeley.com
