Starworks Foundation
The Starworks Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded in 1994, brightens the lives of hospitalized children through creative expression in the arts. The Starworks Fellows, who are graduate writing students, teach creative writing to hospitalized children ages five through eighteen. As a result, hundreds of young patients have composed pictures of their lives, hopes, and dreams in poems, stories, essays, and drawings. These poems and pictures are celebrated through readings, newspapers, and published anthologies. This creativity has a powerful impact — it brightens spirits, generates pride, and builds self esteem.Every year, Dances Patrelle offers a special Starworks children's matinee performance of The Yorkville Nutcracker. During the intermission, Mr. Patrelle gives an informative demonstration explaining the creation of dramatic ballet. In addition, at the close of the performance children in the audience are invited to meet our Principal Dancers.
In Spring 2006, dP and the Starworks Foundation formed another partnership. A special Saturday matinee performance of Dances Patrelle's ballet POP was added to the run; and once again Starworks children, volunteers, and patrons were given priority seating. Best of all, prior to the performance the Starworks children were invited to read their original poems and stories, bringing their creativity to the Dances Patrelle stage.
For more information about the Starworks Foundation, please visit www.starworksfoundation.org.