PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Mann Center for the Performing Arts has unveiled the Mann Center Institute for Creative Arts and Community Impact, setting a bold new precedent for arts institutions. The Institute aims to empower urban youth, foster social impact, and expand community opportunities through innovative arts programming and workforce development.
“We are at an inflection point in the Mann’s storied history,” said Catherine M. Cahill, the Mann’s chief executive officer. “We have a desire, a track record, and a responsibility to do more. Why would a performing arts center lean in so intently on community workforce development? Because we can and should, and because our West Parkside community here in Philadelphia has asked us for it and experienced the benefits.”
The Institute will focus on three key pillars. It seeks to establish itself as a national leader in youth workforce development within the music industry, deepen out-of-school arts education programs, and strengthen cultural connections to promote equity and inclusion.
The Mann also announced the appointment of Frank Machos, Ph.D., as the Institute’s vice president and director. Currently serving as executive director for the School District of Philadelphia’s Office of The Arts & Creative Learning, Machos brings years of experience in arts education and advocacy. “I’m excited to expand this work further into the community and across Philadelphia’s rich music industry through the Mann Center Institute, developing opportunities for youth and aspiring creatives that build on Philly’s incomparable legacy as an incubator for arts and culture,” Machos said.
The Institute will oversee a variety of signature programs with ambitious plans for expansion, including growing youth-focused efforts like the Music Industry Training Program and the Motion & Music Academy, as well as community staples like the Young People’s Concert Series and HBCU Festival. For example, the All City Orchestra Summer Academy, a two-week training program in partnership with The Philadelphia Orchestra and others, currently serves 110 young local musicians each year. Under the Institute, participation is projected to double by 2030.
“This body of work speaks to our commitment to serve as a creative catalyst, bridging the gap between artistic expression and community development,” Cahill added. “The Institute will be a resource that connects people, communities, organizations, systems, and partners.”
With its expansive vision and growing portfolio, the Mann Center Institute for Creative Arts and Community Impact is poised to transform both the region’s arts landscape and its community workforce. By offering equitable opportunities and nurturing creative talent, the Mann is carving out a forward-thinking model for performing arts institutions nationwide.
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