A PERETZ FOUNDATION Initiative
This June, the PERETZ FOUNDATION proudly brought Arts in Motion to two vibrant elementary schools—Magnolia Woods and Broadmoor Elementary—sharing the soul of Louisiana’s culture with over 350 young students.
Arts in Motion is not just a performance—it’s a living, breathing collaboration of music, dance, and visual art. Students were treated to a spontaneous, immersive experience where creativity unfolded in real time. Baton Rouge’s finest artists came together to create a one-of-a-kind show:
- 🎹 Mike Esneault on piano
- 🎤 Ed Perkins on vocals
- 🎸 David Ellis on bass
- 🥁 Keith Simmoneaux on drums
- 💃 Shamira Cummings and Jalan Lang on dance
- 🎨 Mike Weary, who painted an abstract masterpiece live before their eyes
Each art form responded to the others—sound to movement, color to rhythm—demonstrating the magic that happens when creativity is truly set in motion.
💫 A Celebration of Culture and Collaboration
The energy in both schools was electric. Students were mesmerized by the harmony of sound, motion, and color. It wasn’t just entertainment—it was a lesson in unity, expression, and the beauty of Louisiana’s cultural heritage.
Through Arts in Motion, the PERETZ FOUNDATION continues its mission to inspire the next generation of creative minds, making the arts accessible, engaging, and unforgettable.
We extend heartfelt thanks to East Baton Rouge Fine Arts for their support in making this day possible.
“Arts in Motion” isn’t just about watching a performance; it’s about experiencing the raw energy of creation, witnessing dedication, and understanding the discipline behind artistic mastery. The program recognizes that for many children, especially those in underserved communities, direct exposure to live arts is a rare luxury. By removing barriers and bringing the arts to them, it aims to spark curiosity, foster imagination, and broaden horizons in profound ways.
Imagine a group of elementary school students, their faces alight with wonder, as a classical ballet dancer gracefully glides across their gymnasium floor, explaining the physics of a pirouette and the emotion behind each movement. Or a middle school class gathered around a vibrant mural taking shape before their eyes, as a street artist demonstrates brushstrokes and explains the social commentary woven into their work. These aren’t just spectacles; they’re immersive learning experiences that blend education with inspiration.
“The impact we’ve seen is truly remarkable,” says Maria Rodriguez, program director for Arts in Motion. “Children who might struggle in traditional academic settings suddenly come alive. They ask questions, they mimic movements, they start drawing and creating their own stories. It’s not just about introducing them to art forms; it’s about showing them what’s possible, igniting their own creative potential.”
In an era where arts funding in schools can be precarious, “Arts in Motion” stands as a vital bridge, ensuring that the next generation isn’t deprived of the invaluable lessons that only live creative experiences can provide. By bringing the magic of artistic expression directly to young audiences, “Arts in Motion” isn’t just showcasing art; it’s cultivating future artists, patrons, and, most importantly, imaginative, engaged citizens. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes, the best way to learn is to simply watch, listen, and let your own mind begin to move.
