The Martha-Ellen Tye
Performing Arts Institute

The Martha-Ellen Tye Performing Arts Institute brings a unique blend of arts experiences to students of all ages through matinee performances, teaching activities in schools, demonstrations and workshops. The Institute was established in 1999 through a generous endowment by long-time Marshalltown resident
Martha-Ellen Tye.

The late Mrs. Tye believed strongly in the power and importance
of arts education and vigorously supported programs that develop the “whole person – body, mind and spirit.”

The Institute epitomizes Iowa State University’s land-grant mission of education and outreach.

Performing Arts for Young Minds

As a parent or educator, you know that helping a student develop creativity and imagination is one of the most important things you can do, but it’s no easy assignment.

The Youth Matinee Series at Stephens Auditorium
can help! Programs meet your instructional objectives and are designed to...
• Enhance problem-solving skills
• Encourage new ways of thinking
• Awaken a sense of discovery
• Initiate dialogue and debate
• Broaden perspectives
• Build self-esteem

Performances are produced by nationally touring professional companies whose mission is to perform for and educate young audiences. By bringing artists, audiences, and ideas together in meaningful ways, Iowa State Center’s Youth Matinee series is a great introduction to the performing arts and an effective, creative way to explore a variety of curriculum areas.

To help connect performances to your classroom activities, specially-designed study guides provide background on the performances and artists; classroom activities that engage students in reading, writing, listening, analyzing, and creating; resources for further study; and information for students about their roles and responsibilities as members of the audience.

PreK – high school teachers from over 100 Iowa school districts rely on the Youth Matinee Series at Stephens Auditorium as an important part of their academic year.

We look forward to welcoming you to another phenomenal year with the performing arts!