At the RCA, we believe the arts belong to everyone. That's why we're dedicated to providing visual and performing arts programming and events for all ages. From youth programs that nurture budding artistic skills to music camps, festivals, and classes that create welcoming social spaces for adults and seniors, there's something here for everyone.

Dedicated access to the arts within a community is essential to our society. Research shows that participation in cultural activities strengthens social cohesion. The publication Culture and Democracy: the evidence highlights a range of benefits: people who engage with the arts are more likely to vote, volunteer, and become active members of their communities. They develop positive social attitudes, sharpen their listening skills, and build cross-cultural understanding.

When we invest in arts programming for all, we invest in our community. It matters that people of every generation feel seen, valued, and connected; that they have purpose and belonging within their age group. At the RCA, we strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome the moment they walk through our doors.

Age-Focused Arts Programming

Each season, we aim to provide varied programming for all to explore and enjoy. During our Spring 2026 programming season, we offered a selection of visual and performing arts programs designed to meet every age and skill level.

Claymation is one of our featured ongoing youth programs, inviting teens aged 16 and up to learn a classic animation style under guided supervision. Across weekly sessions, participants work in teams to design characters, build miniature sets, and sculpt stories from clay bringing their creations to life through stop-motion film. It's a chance to gain hands-on experience in animation, build potential stepping stones for the future, and have fun making friends along the way.

Draw Your Art Out is a free community program that has become a beloved mainstay at the RCA. Every Wednesday morning, adults and seniors gather for a relaxing visual arts experience with regular access to art supplies in a comfortable social setting. Our goal is simple: create a low-pressure, low-cost space for artistic expression, a second space outside the home where adults and seniors can connect and create.

We believe it's essential to offer programs that welcome demographics not always targeted by social groups. A key focus for our organization is ensuring that every age group has the opportunity to pursue hobbies and interests that suit them.

Intergenerational Events for All

Beyond our age-focused programming, we have a number of upcoming events that we encourage people from all generations to enjoy together.

RCA Summer Jazz Camps are back by popular demand. Led by Craig Thompson, participants will develop their musical creativity through improvisation across a variety of genres: blues, R&B, soul/funk, and classic jazz standards. The camp culminates in an end-of-week performance by instructors alongside local professionals in the Mary Irwin Theatre. Designed for individuals with at least one year's experience, it's the perfect opportunity to refine musical technique and gain invaluable mentorship. Taking place between August 17 – 21, 2026, this camp offers the perfect pastime for music lovers this summer.

Creative Aging Festival is coming this June, packed with fun events and activities for the whole community. This free, week-long celebration features dance classes, performances, hands-on arts sessions, and dedicated educational programming to help seniors navigate the sometimes-tricky world of finance and technology. While the festival is designed with ages 55+ in mind, we welcome all ages to join in on the fun.

Here's a taste of what's in store:

• A vibrant Cultural Exchange Market featuring local organizations and community resources
• The unveiling of the RCA Mural Project, showcasing artwork created by youth and artists right here in the Kelowna community
• A Friday Night Finale on the RCA Patio featuring performances from local artists for the whole family to enjoy

We're thrilled to welcome Michael Averill, Bluegrass Family Duo, and The Legendary Lake Monsters to our Friday Night Finale for a wonderful evening beneath the gentle summer sun. Join us for what promises to be a fantastic festival: June 13–19, 2026.

Why This Matters

At the RCA, we often talk about the arts as a way to inspire creativity, but just as importantly, the arts create connection. They create spaces where strangers become collaborators, where confidence is rediscovered, and where people of different generations can learn from one another through shared experiences.

Every program, workshop, festival, and performance contributes to something larger than itself. A young person discovering a creative passion, an older adult finding community through weekly art-making, a family gathering for live music on the patio. These moments help shape a more connected, compassionate, and vibrant community. That is the impact of accessible arts programming. It is not only about what happens inside a studio or theatre. It is about building spaces where people feel welcome, valued, and inspired to participate in community life together.