The Arts Return to DCPS: Theatre!

My students have demonstrated their commitment and determination in seeing theatre become a part of our school community through their founding of a booming and active theatre club last year that produced two evening productions, participated in a Shakespeare Festival, and chartered a chapter of the theatre arts honour society (the second chapter in DC). Their interest has led to the creation of a single section of theatre being offered during the school day - a rare treat few schools in DCPS get to enjoy anymore.

Formerly the breeding ground for jazz greats, talented comedians, unbelievable visual artists, and many other talents, DCPS schools rarely boast more than a good band (if they are so lucky to have retained this) - our students have decided to remind folks that DC students are no less creative, ambitious, and talented than their parents and grandparents.

To that end, their ambition and drive requires now focus and exposure. We are seeking to expand our current library of scripts to include some modern classics (Paula Vogel and Tennessee Williams, for example) with perspectives that give voice where the classics didn't always allow room (The Laramie Project; Quiara Algera Hudes) and ideas that are relevant to the social context of the conditions our students are developing in (The Colored Museum, Six Degrees of Separation).

In addition to exposure to the word and art, we are also seeking flexible studio lights that can create a small performance space in classroom or other areas to deliver performances and, just as importantly, explore the interaction between cool and warm light and the way lighting impacts colors on-stage, the way things are arranged, etc. To play with colour are the two face paint kits that will be used to create both realistic and creature-like effects.