Educational Outreach
Thanks to a partnership with Urban Stages since 2023, The Nightingale Fam has been able to offer a variety of free educational programs at New York City public libraries. Below are some of the public library programs created and/or led by The Nightingale Fam performers and teachers. Please reach out via the contact page if you are interested in scheduling any of these programs!
REBEL SQUEEZEBOX
What is the accordion and who plays it? Broadway accordionist, actor and educator Mary Spencer Knapp takes us on an eclectic musical journey to meet the most influential women accordion players from around the world and discover diverse musical genres. Together we will learn about Creole zydeco music from Louisiana’s legendary Queen Ida, experimental music from the legacy of Pauline Oliveros and merengue tipico from Republica Dominicana’s Fefita La Grande! Get ready to dance, shake... and squeeze!
REBEL GIRLS: MUSICAL TALES OF EXTRAORDINARY WOMEN
A colorful original musical adaptation of Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo’s “Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls,” and Penelope Bagieu's "Brazen," featuring composer/narrator Mary Spencer Knapp and choreographer/dancer Veronica Simas de Souza. Through this interactive presentation we will learn the stories of some of history’s most fearless pioneers, from ancient Egyptian ruler Hatshepsut to 20th century performer, activist and spy Josephine Baker. Recommended for families with children ages 2-10.
DAUGHTERS OF PACHAMAMA
Created and performed by Veronica Simas De Souza with musical accompaniment from Mary Spencer Knapp, this show intertwines heroic tales of Peruvian women at the forefront of the climate justice movement with ancient stories and legends passed down through generations. It's a storytelling, dance, and music show that celebrates not only the struggles and victories of these environmental guardians but also the enduring wisdom of a culture deeply rooted in respect for Mother Earth. It carries a message of unity and hope for a sustainable future.
READY, SET, KINDERGARTEN
In this special six-session reading readiness series, families enjoy stories & activities designed to encourage the development of early learning practices, rooted in the Science of Reading. Exploring literacy, science, & math through music, stories, art, & play will help you & your child get ready for school! Families will receive free materials to continue the learning and fun at home. The experience of learning together with peers also teaches children important social-emotional skills that will help them adjust to being in a classroom environment.
BRAINY BABIES
Families enjoy stories and activities designed to encourage brain development and early learning practices. Each week we will read books, sing songs, and do fun activities that promote language development, social-emotional skills, and more. Parents and caregivers will have the opportunity to learn about community resources, hear from expert guest speakers, and connect with peer support networks. Each week, we explore a different theme: READING, TALKING, SINGING, PLAYING, MOVEMENT, and EMOTIONS. Parents and caregivers will learn how to use these practices to develop their children’s oral language and pre-reading skills. Families will also receive FREE books, toys and learning materials to continue the learning and fun at home.
THE NIGHTINGALE FAM SINGALONG
Accordionist, Broadway alum and Brooklyn mom Mary Spencer Knapp’s music classes are educational, eclectic and get your blood pumping! Together we will discover unique instruments, rhythms, languages and sounds from around the world. Mary’s music classes are designed for you the adult as much as they are for your children - for you to feel you are in a safe space where music is neither polished nor dull, but instead spontaneous, multifaceted and fun. We will sing about snow in Spanish, clap in 5/8 rhythm, and dance to Balkan accordion, creating a unique musical community and vocabulary to continue at home! Geared for young children, but all are welcome!
