This year marks the third annual installment of Theatre Camp with Centre Stage Community Theatre. Our local, talented crew of actors led the week-long program, guiding students to the end of summer and a new school year. Participants learn skills appropriate for the theater, but also valuable lessons to carry forward in life.
I said a-BOOM!
Kimberly Canale is the ring-leader of this silly circus of kids acting goofy all week. There are games and rhymes they practice daily. Boom Chicka Boom is a repeat-after-me style verse that gets used as practice, activity transition, and a closer to each afternoon session. Kids have to follow actions and voice style of the leader. Each person takes the opportunity to lead the group and every time it gets giggles.
I love watching how the teens and tweens are uncomfortable at first, but within a few Boom Chicka Booms, all shyness is pushed aside. Kimberly and Eddie, our talented actors, show no restraint in their silliness, which is contagious. The confidence building over the week is one superb life skill these kids need.
Public speaking should be a cinch for these students as they progress in their educational and working careers. Other skills achieved are respect for each other. Giving attention and applause to each actor shows respect, but learning to accept applause--actually wait for it--is an incredible opportunity to experience.
Reader Theatre
Performing plays by reading the script helps students remain confident that they know their lines and improves the ability to read aloud and keep track of the play's progress.
Team Huddle
Working in teams to decide upon themes, actions, etc. helps build cooperative skills working with peers. The copious group activities these kids experienced all week give them a lead in the new school year. Team work makes the dream work!
Team Eddie
Having multiple team leaders helped maintain momentum and gives each student different perspectives. While Kimberly loves drama, Eddie loves comedy and this was a perfect mix for our group of students.
Awaiting Applause
Parents are the BEST Audience 💜💜
Boys acting like HEAVY Luggage
Parents and patrons were invited to a free performance on the last day of class. I got many great responses from parents whose kids LOVED this program and can't wait to have it offered again. I see a puppet show looming in the near future...stay tuned 😉
Script reading= skill building
This wraps another fantastic week of young adult programming at the Southeast Steuben County Library. Thanks for visiting!
