Smith Andersen Editions, located on quaint Pepper Avenue, publishes and sells monoprint and monotype prints. This method of printmaking produces "painting-like" prints, each of which is unique. If you are interested in buying or publishing with SAE, you must first make an appointment.
The Palo Alto Art Center is a regional visual arts mecca whose exhibition program features the work of Bay Area artists. The nationally-renowned organization is funded by the Palo Alto Art Center Foundation, as well as Arts Council Silicon Valley and numerous other groups. The Center's mission is to "foster creative process and thought by forging a greater appreciation and understanding of the visual arts through exhibitions, studio experiences, and related educational programs." Those educational programs include a plethora of classes for kids and adults, and the generous time and money offered by the Center's supporters have allowed it to truly become a regional artistic hub serving the greater mid-Peninsula area.
Since 1963, this non-profit has provided children an opportunity to participate in a symphony orchestra. There are 450 children, ages 6-18, comprising five orchestras and several smaller ensembles. The Symphony provides training and rehearsals, and organizes international tours for the students, giving them the chance to play with internationally acclaimed professional orchestras at renowned venues all over the world.
This box office sells tickets to theater shows, sports events and concerts in the Bay Area. They also can provide tickets to Broadway and Las Vegas shows.
The Stanford Theater is a classic movie house with a gorgeous atmosphere, showing classic movies as they were meant to be seen. Currently run by the non profit Stanford Theatre Foundation, the space provides an opportunity to watch big name classic movies in style. The Wurlitzer organ plays before, after and during the intermissions of the 7:30pm show, adding to the granduer of the space. Twenty-four-dollar gift certificates are good for four shows and are available at the theater.
For kids under 10 and their caregivers, the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo is a hands-on science class. The zoo has more than 50 animal species including bobcats and hedgehogs, and the museum has 14 interactive exhibits to teach concepts like gravity and motion. It also hosts birthday parties in a private room for kindergarteners and up, and have educational programs for schools and community groups.
The Silicon Valley Boychoir is an all boys choir based in Palo Alto. The choir includes boys ages 6 to 12, aiming to "train boys in the choral art with an emphasis on music literacy and the highest artistic standards." Choir members are taught proper breathing technique, increased singing range, sheet music reading and performance skills. Boys are split between two choirs based on skill level and experience - Overture Choir and Concert Choir. The Silicon Valley Boychoir sings pieces from a range of styles including classical, contemporary, folk, secular and choral. Admission into the choir is by audition only. Performances occur throughout the year.
Focusing on contemporary abstract painting, multimedia and sculpture, the Bryant Street Gallery offers patrons a rotating collection of the work of 48 select artists. Paintings are attractively displayed on long white walls; track lighting spotlights the work. Sculptures occupy various places of honor on the hardwood floor. Custom framing , delivery, installation and consultation services are also available.
Bay Area School of Performing Arts offers courses in dance, music and theater. The school provides instruction to students in Palo Alto, San Jose and Daly City. Specific courses include Creative Drama, Acting Fundamentals, Basic Acting, Songwriting, Teen and Junior Glee, Contemporary Jazz, Break Dancing, Hip Hop and Creative Movement. Spring and summer camp opportunities are available.
Since 1990, the Museum of American Heritage has provided permanent and special exhibitions of 19th and 20th century inventions and technology for no admission charge. The museum debuts a new special exhibit about every four months and group tours are available for a small fee. It also offers lectures and classes in addition to hands-on programs for middle school students.
West Bay Opera Association, whose box office is located on Lambert Avenue, is an opera company that features singers and musicians from all around the Bay Area. West Bay Opera offers three shows per season and performs at Palo Alto's Lucie Stern Theatre. Those that wish to view West Bay Opera perform may order tickets online or contact the box office for ticketing information.