Iluminadas is a non-profit organization dedicated to making performing arts accessible to underserved Minnesota communities. Arts and educational programming is developed for and presented to youth and families at risk, the deaf and hard of hearing, communities of color, and survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault. Audiences are diverse in culture, race and socioeconomic status.

Iluminadas partners with community organizations to integrate performing arts events with established community events, seeking to broaden access to the arts as a vehicle for individual enrichment and empowerment as well as community development.

The high quality, inclusive programming developed by Iluminadas, coupled with the social justice message delivered through artistic performance, inspires and transforms participants and strengthens their ability to resist oppression.

To make the performing arts accessible, Iluminadas books events into community locations not traditionally able to present nationally acclaimed programming. The organization also eliminates the financial and transportation barriers that have prevented its constituency from patronizing mainstream performance venues.

History

Established in 1996, the early focus of Iluminadas was to provide free music instruction at numerous Twin Cities locations to at-risk youth. The first Executive Director, Stephanie Lusco, established and managed the music instruction until her death in 2004. Also during Lusco’s tenure, Iluminadas developed The Sweet Honey In The Rock Project, which was presented in the Twin Cities in 1998, 2000, 2003, and 2005.

The Sweet Honey In The Rock Projects have included workshops for youth, youth and family concerts, youth arts contests, and community outreach.

Mission

Mission Statement: Iluminadas Performing Arts School and Educational Services Inc. is a catalyst for communities to collaborate, experience and create arts presentations and educational programming. These collaborations collectively will engage, enrich and empower cultural diversity in the Twin Cities community.