Help "Shine a Light" on Our Talented Students

Funded Nov 16, 2013

Thank you so much for your generous donation. My Theatre students are extremely grateful to have a new lighting system to enhance their performances. Our school's budget is very lean, which generally limits the type of technology we are able to purchase for the classroom. The students often express the desire to have a "real" Theatre space to rehearse and perform in. Although, I often tell them that a space is what you make it and we just have to be more creative with the resources we have, it's wonderful to see the excitement and pride that a new lighting system has given them.

This school year we were able to transport my classroom into a Black Box Theatre. The lighting system enabled us to create an intimate performance area that spotlighted the hard work of my talented students. Although, my focus as the Performance teacher is generally on the physical work seen on stage, having a new lighting system has also helped students learn how to set and focus the lights, create different effects, and run the lighting cues during a show. I am proud to report that we have successfully produced two Story Slam competitions and two Performance Showcases presented by both the Storytelling and Acting Classes. This new tradition of smaller performances has increased the amount of parent and family support as well as the student body participation.

It has been amazing to see how the addition of this one resource has stimulated the enthusiasm and imagination of my students. They are buzzing with ideas and suggestions of performances we can create next year. As a Theatre teacher who believes in the power and importance of creative expression, I couldn't be more thrilled to see the passion and drive that is flourishing. Thank you for helping me achieve that for my students!”

With gratitude,

Mrs. Gonzales-DeJohn