Unique to the Phoenix area, Arts Engagement Program has been nationally recognized for enhancing intellectual stimulation and promoting shared positive experiences for dementia patients and their care partners. Recent research suggests that involvement in arts and cultural activities contributes to overall quality of life for Alzheimer’s patients by offering meaningful opportunities for companionship and community participation.
“This program demonstrates that the performing arts can truly be powerful healing arts,” said Michael Christie, Virginia G. Piper Music Director of The Phoenix Symphony. “People realize that life still has much to offer, and Arts Engagement Program encourages them to learn to enjoy living in the moment,” remarked Laura Hales, Associate Curator of Education at SMoCA. Former participants have reported many benefits including the camaraderie with others in similarcircumstances and the introduction of new places to visit and enjoy. As one patient who has experienced the program put it, “We participants have been forced to come out of our protective shells…I’m planning to stay with each program for the time [the disease allows].”
Each of the participating venues in the program offers six sessions with activities ranging from interactive gallery tours and hands-on art activities, to an engaging presentation that provokes musical interpretation followed by a one-hour concert. Kristi McMillan, Assistant Curator for Education at Phoenix Art Museum adds, “Our staff and docents take great joy and pride in being part of the program. We are honored to be one of the venues that offer Arts Engagement Program to our community.”
Registration fees vary according to the venue and space is limited, so interested participants are encouraged to register early by calling the venue of their choice.
The Phoenix Symphony: February 18; March 4, 25; April 15; May 6.
One North First Street, Suite 200 in Phoenix. (602) 452-0410 or (602) 452-0411
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art: February 1, 15; March 1, 22; April 5, 19.
7374 East 2nd Street in Scottsdale. 480-874-4642
Phoenix Art Museum: February 10, 24; March 10, 24; April 7, 21.
1625 North Central Avenue in Phoenix. 602-307-2032
The Phoenix Symphony’s 2010/11 Sponsors are US Airways, APS, Target and The Arizona Republic.
