Nearly 300 students in grades 5-8 from low income schools in Surprise will experience a holiday musical performance Dec. 17 at Arizona Broadway Theatre 7701 W. Paradise Lane.

For many of these students, this will be their first live theater experience.

The event is part of the 2024-25 in-person field trip initiative from Act One, a nonprofit that provides free arts field trips to low-income students and schools in the Valley.

Students will be treated to a live performance of “Twas the night before Christmas,” part of Arizona Broadway Theatre’s Theatre for Young Audiences program, which introduces live performance to youngsters. This show is a joyful tribute to the holiday season and includes the wild adventures of a mouse, an elf and a spunky little girl who just won’t take no for an answer.

“Arts education field trips take students beyond the classroom to expand their imagination and are an essential component of a well-rounded education,” said Dr. Beth Maloney, executive director at Act One. “Although many arts venues offer students a reduced price, Title I schools do not have the resources to support ticket purchases and transportation. Act One addresses this equity gap by providing transportation and free admission to some of the most renowned arts and cultural experiences in the Valley.”

According to a 2024 report from the Arizona Department of Education, 644 Arizona schools currently offer no arts education, 39% of which are designated as Title I schools.

The Act One immersive arts education experience isn’t just beneficial for students, teachers see distinct advantages in the offerings as well, Maloney said.

“Teachers often get emotional watching their students react during the art and cultural experiences provided by Act One,” added Maloney. “Each year we search for partners who provide diverse, interesting and relevant content for our students, which is invaluable because all students deserve access to the arts.”