Innovative Studio V 4 Arts opens in Ventura
by Jim Spencer and Shirley Lorraine
Thanks to specialization, advanced technology and globalization, gone are the mythical glory days of the prosperous lone wolf entrepreneur and the “I-can-do-it-all” career-oriented urbanite.
Personal and business success in the 21st Century require development of four different skill sets – collaboration, creativity, communication and critical thinking. Although inherent in most fruitful arts programs, these traits are seldom taught in an integrated manner – until now. They are core concepts at Studio V 4 Arts in Ventura which formally began offering classes the first week of January.
Studio V 4 Arts is a newly launched, intergenerational, nonprofit arts organization conceived, orchestrated and piloted by Patricia Lynn-Strickland. The Studio offers comprehensive arts, acting and writing classes with a focus on developing skills that, as Lynn-Strickland explains, “are transferable and give you a competitive edge in school, the workplace and in life.”
Study after study have found that those who participate in the arts achieve gains in math, reading, cognitive ability, critical thinking and verbal skills – plus improved motivation, concentration, confidence, and teamwork. These benefits accrue to the participants at every age.
Since only is minimal funding is available for arts education in the schools, the programs of nonprofit groups like Studio V 4 Arts are almost the sole resource to obtain these benefits in one place.
Beginning with theatre arts, the innovative programming at Studio V 4 Arts will eventually include all of the arts, including music, dance and the visual arts, as well as performances, showcases and festivals.
Another goal of Studio V 4 Arts is to weave arts and education into a series of formats to meet the needs of all ages. In addition to acting, a class in “Ethnographic Theatre” is offered – turning your own stories into theatre through writing and performing. After all, everyone has a story to tell.
Lynn-Strickland’s coordinated and fresh approach is based on and has been fine-tuned by years of experience. She recently retired after teaching music and drama at St. Bonaventure High School for 15 years. She served as Artistic Director at Oxnard’s Elite Theatre Company for eight years, and directed youth theater productions at Ventura’s Rubicon Theatre Company for six years. Her directing and acting credits include 200+ productions throughout the Ventura and Los Angeles region.
In addition, Lynn-Strickland is a graduate of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts West and holds a B.A. degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from New York Institute of Technology. She also holds a Master’s degree in Communication and Leadership from Gonzaga University, and a Drama Therapy Certification from British Yoga Academy.
Studio V 4 Arts is housed at The Livery Theater, home of the Ventura Improv Company, at 34 N. Palm Street in downtown Ventura. Acting classes for children (5-8), youth (9-12), teens (13-18) and adults (19 and up) are now open for registration. Class sessions are eight weeks culminating in a presentation. For further information, class schedules and more details, 443-5783, www.studiov4arts.com.
