“The Westview School is a private school in Houston, Texas, specifically designated for children with autism spectrum disorder. In 2021, Lindsay Kate Brown came into the school, desiring to work with the upper elementary and middle school students in their drama classes. Ms. Brown’s aspirations were to work with the students to teach them about varying concepts in opera that they may find relatable. For a demographic that often has little exposure to the operatic artform, Ms. Brown was able to successfully draw upon the creative imaginations of each individual student within the classroom. Ms. Brown successfully encouraged everyone within the classes to express themselves freely through exploring their own everyday life experiences. Utilizing a story familiar to many (Hansel and Gretel), the students were able to channel their own creativity and imagination to explore the vast operatic world. Ms. Brown created a safe learning environment in which all students felt comfortable to explore new characters, express different emotions, find/embrace their own voices, and create meaningful art. Watching Ms. Brown work with the children of The Westview School was truly inspiring. The students truly enjoyed their time getting to know Ms. Brown and diving into an art form that was unfamiliar to many. Exposing children to opera at a young age is essential to the advancement of this art form. Lindsay Kate Brown has been a leader in ushering the importance of opera education and ensuring that it is placed at the forefront of schools today.”