Yadkin Arts Council Enhances Education With New Streaming Video System

The Yadkin Arts Council has been awarded grant funds to buy a streaming video system to help bolster their arts education and performance programs.

The Arts Council applied for the grant before the pandemic, but the funds will now help it to enhance services in the current environment. While classes in the Willingham Performing Arts Academy and the Junior Appalachian Musicians Program did continue online after the initial coronavirus shutdown, there were limitations.

The new video system uses multiple cameras and a video switching system. It enables groups to record performances with professional quality video, and instructors to record supplemental content for students. 

Executive Director Sarah Smith says they'll be able to fulfill their arts-education mission to students by streaming live performances into classrooms and homes.

“We generally bring them to the theater in person, but if they aren't going to be allowed to come on field trips this year, we thought instead we would send art to them," she says.

Once live productions in the Willingham Theater resume, audiences will be able to purchase tickets to watch some of the plays from home — which could be a financial boost, as performance venues across the state will likely be opening at reduced capacities.

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