Sandler On The Road
Impacting Our Youth
Sandler On the Road (OTR) is a partnership with Richmond Ballet bringing lecture demonstration performances to Title I schools in Virginia Beach.
What is OTR?
Prior to the pandemic, SCF worked with area school districts and made it possible for more than 65,000 students to visit the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts for a live, curriculum-based matinee at no cost to the school. With a halt to live performances during the pandemic and then facing bus driver shortages and children’s literacy losses, there was a clear need to bring arts directly to the schools.
Classic ballets are adapted for education-friendly demonstrations. The program combines dance, narrative storytelling appropriate for kindergarten—5th grade, and an interactive experience as dancers engage with students.
Looking Back
Professionals from the Richmond Ballet visited 15 schools and over 2,300 students in the 2023-2024 school year with Swan Lake. Members of our team attended select schools last year; read the blog about their experience
HERE.
Looking Ahead
In the spring of 2025, SCF will see an increase to 16 schools with a new performance of Cinderella. Each lecture demonstration is SOL-aligned, with teacher guides to enhance learning before and after the performances. Scheduling and administration are provided by the Richmond Ballet. This performance is partially supported by funding from the Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.
We hope to continue the impact of Sandler On The Road; making waves in the future of our local arts community. Here’s how you can help:
Sponsor a child or even an entire class by donating to SCF. Your gift goes directly to support this program!
