ArtSparks

The ArtSparks powered by FirstOntario program is working towards providing all children in Milton in Grades 1 to 8 an opportunity to attend and experience a performance at the FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton, free of charge. This program removes the socioeconomic barriers that often surround the arts.

ArtSparks 2026

The ArtSparks 2026 program is proud to feature Twin Flames and Shaun Boothe’s Hope in Challenging Times Series.

Twin Flames is a husband-and-wife duo who bridge cultures and musical styles. With 50 awards and nominations, their powerful blend of folk, rock, and Indigenous influences captivates audiences worldwide. Through songs in English, French, and Inuttitut, Jaaji (Inuk and Mohawk) and Chelsey June (Settler and Indigenous heritage) create unforgettable performances, mixing humor, storytelling, and musical talent. Their unique sound, blending traditional flutes, drums, and Western instruments, has earned them a special place in contemporary music. Twin Flames are on the rise, and their journey is just beginning.

This performance is FREE for Milton students in Grades 3-8 *subject to performance date. Buses to and from the venue are provided by the FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton at no additional charge upon request.

School performances

• Monday, Sept. 29, 2025 10:30 a.m. Grades 3-6
• Monday, Sept. 29, 2025 12:30 p.m. Grades 3-6
• Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025 10:30 a.m. Grades 3-6
• Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025 12:30 p.m. Grades 3-6
• Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025 10:30 a.m. Grades 7-8
• Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025 12:30 p.m. Grades 7-8

Shaun Boothe is an award-winning hip-hop artist, TEDx speaker and creator of ‘The Unauthorized Biography Series’. The Unauthorized Biography Series is a critically acclaimed musical project that celebrates the world's greatest cultural icons through biographical raps songs. Each chapter of the series captures the legacy of an influential iconic figure in a documentary-style music video. Icons featured in the series include Bob Marley, Muhammad Ali, Serena Williams, Malala Yousafzai, Terry Fox, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and more.

The Hope in Challenging Times Series speaks directly to the topic of mental health- our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It offers hope, inspiration, and practical tools to stay strong in a world forced to stay inside. It also offers tools to explore and navigate the world inside of us- our feelings, emotions, and untapped reservoirs of strength.

This performance is FREE for Milton students in Grades 6-8. Buses to and from the venue are provided by the FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton at no additional charge upon request.

School performances

• Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026 10:30 a.m.
• Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026 12:30 p.m. 
• Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026 10:30 a.m.
• Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026 12:30 p.m.
• Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026 10:30 a.m.
• Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026 12:30 p.m.

Support the ArtSparks powered by FirstOntario program

Show how much you value future generations and art education in your community. Become a donor for the ArtSparks powered by FirstOntario program today.

Program benefits 

Participation in the arts has a positive impact on children. Evidence shows that children benefit in multiple ways when they engage in arts and culture activities. Some benefits include:

• Stronger academic performance, including improved scores on standardized tests
• Enhanced critical thinking skills, communication skills and emotional intelligence
• Improved health (mental and physical)
• Improved empathy and compassion for others
• Greater ability to express emotions
• New ways to perceive and relate to the world and an increased ability to connect with others
• Renewed focus and motivation to learn and actively engage in education

Testimonials

 Watch testimonials from participants, sponsors, community members and politicians.