Steinway Young Artist Chelsea de Souza is acclaimed for her dynamic artistry and innovative programming. Described as “fierce and focused” (rediff) with “an alluring stage presence” (The Hindu), she has performed worldwide as a soloist and chamber musician, appearing at venues such as the Menil Collection, Minnesota Orchestra’s summer season, and La Jolla Summerfest. A dedicated advocate for new music, she regularly premieres works and collaborates with renowned ensembles.

Originally from Mumbai, Chelsea explores themes of identity and culture in her performances, blending classical, jazz, and world music influences. A prizewinner in multiple international competitions, she holds degrees from Oberlin, Peabody, and is completing her doctorate at Rice University. She currently serves as the Mitchell Scholar in Residence at the University of Houston and is the co-founder of the Houston Music Festival.

The Goddard Center is a vibrant hub for the arts that includes arts education, visual art exhibits, and performing arts.

Our arts education program offers year-round classes for all ages across four sessions, as well as a summer art camp for children and teens aged 6 to 18. The Goddard Center features four exhibition areas in its gallery space, showcasing award-winning local, regional, and national artists. Additionally, we host annual exhibits for elementary through high school students. Our galleries are open to the public and always free of charge.

The Goddard Center also has a 306-seat theater with a diverse lineup of classical and contemporary dance, music, and theater performances. In addition, Ardmore Little Theatre has been the resident community theater company at the Goddard Center for over 50 years, producing 4 to 6 shows annually, including a special summer production for children. The Goddard Center prides itself on enriching the cultural landscape for Ardmore and the surrounding communities.