The Museum of Work & Culture is excited to launch a free, bi-weekly virtual summer education series, Hands-on History: Summer Spotlight Rhode Island, for ages 4-7, beginning Tuesday, July 7 at 9:30am.

Each week will feature a different aspect of Rhode Island’s performing arts history, with registered families receiving all necessary materials in a pre-emailed packet. Programs will include:

Tuesday, July 7: All That Jazz
Participants will learn about jazz music and culture, learning some of the genre’s traditional lingo, famous names, and ties to Rhode Island history. Children will also be able to get in the swing of things with provided, personalizable accessories. The program will end with the children creating their own jazz song!

Tuesday, July 21: Dance Around the World
Children will explore the dances of different Rhode Island immigrant groups. Museum educators will lead participants through a brief history of these groups and their cultural dances. Children can also get into the rhythm by learning traditional dance steps and moves!

Tuesday, August 4: I’ve Got No Strings
In our puppetry program, participants will learn about the history of the artform, including finger, stick, and shadow puppets. A professional puppet master will make a guest appearance! Children will also be able to create their own puppets, using provided materials.

Tuesday, August 18: Vaudeville & Variety
Children will learn about the fascinating and diverse world of vaudeville and variety shows. Museum educators will guide students through the history of vaudeville in Rhode Island, including its biggest acts and performers. In the second half of the program, the children will put on their own variety show, in which each child can perform and showcase their own unique talent!

Families can register for programs by emailing mowc@rihs.org.

This program is made possible with the support of the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities.