Showcasing Do's and Don'ts

Today I attended a lively quarterly meeting on Showcasing hosted by Maryland's Teaching Artist Institute (TAI) held at Kumari restaurant in Baltimore. It was great meeting not only other teaching artists (Gail Danley, and Julie Kurzava); individuals that represent teaching artists (Liz Wheeler from Class acts Arts) and representatives from various educational and cultural institutions (ie. Maryland State Arts Council and Young Audiences). Facilitator, Pat Cruz (TAI Co-Director) skillfully orchestrated the exchange of information and responses from the informal panel about "Do's and Don'ts of Showcasing" and the later discussion about "Designing the Dream Showcase". The meeting concluded with a discussion on formats and possible alternative structures and a draft of a Plan of Action. For artists like myself who are new to showcasing, this meeting was invaluable.