Riverland Community College will sponsor “Big Arts in the Big Apple” March 6 through March 10, a five-day study trip to New York City, one of America’s most vibrant and historic cultural centers. Led by Riverland faculty members Scott Blankenbaker and Lindsey Duoos Williams, “Big Arts in the Big Apple” will feature theater, art, music, culture and sight-seeing. Participants will have the opportunity to experience Chinatown, the Metropolitan Opera, the Statue of Liberty, Broadway shows and much more.

This travel-study opportunity, created for Riverland students, is open to the general public. Informational meetings are scheduled to review details about cost and preparations. The Riverland Austin campus will host two meetings: 11 a.m. Tuesday in Austin East Building, Room E102 and 6 p.m. Wednesday in Austin East Building, Room E102. Information is also available online at http://riverland.edu/bigarts.

Big Arts in the Big Apple focuses on art, music and theater offerings in New York City, one of the world’s most vibrant and historic cultural centers. Round-trip transportation from the Riverland Austin campus to New York City is included in the cost of the trip. Lodging is provided in the heart of Times Square for five days and four nights. Each day will begin with a brief informational session. Later, students may tour with faculty members or experience New York’s sights on their own, including Lincoln Center, the Guggenheim Museum, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and more.  Faculty also provide assistance for students with local transportation and ticket purchasing.

The study trip is unique because of two pre-trip orientation classes. These orientation classes are designed to assist participants in maximizing their time in New York. Faculty present options for exploring NYC’s music, art, theater and historical offerings as well as provide practical travel advice. Riverland students receive two college credits in music and theater.

The registration deadline for the trip is Nov. 25 or as soon as space is filled. Registration forms can be found online at http://riverland.edu/bigarts.

For more information, contact Lindsey Duoos Williams at 507-434-7390 or lindsey.williams@riverland.edu or Scott Blankenbaker at (507) 433-0547 orscott.blankenbaker@riverland.edu.