Fine Arts in the Big Apple

Sixteen years ago, the St. Agnes Fine Arts Faculty saw an opportunity to share a true arts immersion experience with the Upper School girls in our Art, Theatre and Music programs. They invited any students who were interested in an “arts adventure” to travel to New York City with their teachers for four days. 

“Arts must be experienced to be appreciated. What better place to do this than the city that never sleeps?” said Ann Neal, Theatre Director and Fine Arts Department Chair.  “Ask any girl that has gone on this whirlwind trip. We don't sleep much! This traditional trip has meant so much to the students who have participated. It is an unforgettable experience.”

The group just returned from the 2022 trip where they attended three Broadway shows: Six, MJ The Musical, and Tina-The Tina Turner Musical. The trip also included three spectacular art experiences at The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)and Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, the largest Van Gogh Exhibit in the world.

“My favorite thing about the trip was getting to see three amazing Broadway shows and being able to explore the city with my friends,” shared SAA junior Olivia Sicuro. Her classmate, Alex McLaren enjoyed The Met. “I thought the MET was amazing because we were able to see so many pieces of art and artifacts that define different cultures,” she explained.

The students celebrated Mass at St. Malachy's Church-The Actor's Chapel followed by a visit to the incredibly moving 9/11 Memorial and Museum. Other not-to-be-missed sights visited were the One World Observatory, Central Park, Times Square, Rockefeller Center, Wall Street and Hudson Yards.

Upper School Music Teacher and SAA Alumna, Gabby Willingham (’15) went on this trip as a student in 2012.  In 2022, she participated as a chaperone. "Getting to see New York from both a student and a faculty perspective was more than I could have hoped for. I got to feel like a kid all over again! No place compares to New York, whether you are a student, or an adult, and I am so thankful to have visited New York again on this Fine Arts trip."

This trip gives Upper School students a chance to view many different forms of artistic expression, enhance multicultural awareness, and spend valuable time together. “The girls just returned from the 2022 trip, but the work begins today planning the 2023 trip!” said Mrs. Neal.