Bringing in the Heights to Life: Musical Theatre Script Analysis

Funded May 14, 2024

I am thrilled to share with you the incredible impact your donations have made on my 9th Grade Musical Theatre class. Thanks to your generosity, we were able to purchase scripts of "In The Heights" for our Script Analysis unit, and the results have been truly transformative.

These scripts have introduced my students to a wealth of new skills and lessons. They're learning how to analyze character development, explore themes of cultural identity and community, and understand the structure of a modern musical. The students are also gaining invaluable insights into how dialogue, lyrics, and stage directions work together to create a cohesive theatrical experience.

In our classroom, reading these scripts is an active, engaging process. Students take turns reading aloud, bringing characters to life with their voices. We pause frequently to discuss key moments, analyze the use of language (including the mix of English and Spanish), and explore how the script conveys the vibrant energy of the Washington Heights neighborhood.

The impact on individual students has been remarkable. A shy student of Puerto Rican descent has found her voice through this project. She's connecting deeply with the characters and their experiences, often leading our discussions about the cultural aspects of the show. Another student, who struggled with reading comprehension, is thriving with the script format, finding it more accessible than traditional novels.

Your donations have not just provided books; they've opened up a world of storytelling, cultural exploration, and theatrical understanding for these young performers. The students are developing critical thinking skills, empathy, and a deeper appreciation for diverse narratives in theatre.

Thank you for investing in these students' education and helping to nurture the next generation of theatre artists and appreciators. Your generosity has truly set the stage for their success.”

With gratitude,

Mr. Subsara