In an exciting new partnership, the Frye Art Museum is expanding its Small Frye program to incorporate story-dramas presented by the Seattle Children’s Theatre.

Since it began last spring, the popular drop-in Small Frye story time program has delighted hundreds of children 3 to 5 years old with classic children’s stories and contemporary favorites. The free program in the Museum’s galleries introduces kids to words and sounds that prepare them for reading and writing. By connecting Small Frye themes to the Museum’s exhibitions where possible, the children and their parents or caregivers also learn about art and can explore the Museum after story time is over.

Through the partnership with the Children’s Theatre, children at Small Frye will act out an imaginary journey that leads to the reading of that month’s book. Using props, sound and movement, the children will be able to experience the books “from the inside” using their own imagination.

“Small Frye was created to engage children through stories and the visual arts,” says Jill Rullkoetter, Senior Deputy Director at the Frye Art Museum. “With the involvement of Seattle Children’s Theatre, we can do an even better job of igniting a lifelong love of books, art and learning.” Karen Sharp, Education Director of Seattle Children’s Theatre, sees an additional benefit. “The Frye is so beautiful and our involvement will help children interact with this phenomenal community resource in a much deeper way so that they feel ‘this is my place.’”

The Seattle Public Library has compiled a list of children’s books inspired by the Frye’s exhibition which can be purchased at the Frye Art Museum Store or reserved through The Seattle Public Library, www.spl.org.

More information about Small Frye, parking, gallery guidelines and strollers can be found on the Small Frye page.

Photo: Jill Hardy