Now in its 12th year, school plays were integrated into the curriculum at the request of the students themselves, who, after attending theater for years under the auspices of Project SUCCESS and our theater partners, said, “We could do that!”
Project SUCCESS coordinates the entire performance with the support of the participating school. Often times, our staff, students, and volunteers assist with many aspects of the production (scripts, costume, set construction, technical support, etc.). The schools enthusiastically provide the space for rehearsal and performance, Project SUCCESS covers all expenses associated with the production. In an effort to engage a variety of talents, special performances may also take the shape of spoken word or performance arts. Each school’s experience is customized to the needs of the students and the school.
Putting on a very professional and successful musical/theater performance has contributed to these young people’s skills and self-esteem. Teachers report students raising their grade point averages and becoming more motivated after being part of a Project SUCCESS production.
Theater productions have included Guys and Dolls, Seussical, Willy Wonka, and student-written performances like Here’s Where I Stand. Other theatrical performances have included a four-week long in class program for ELL students using non-verbal, creative media to communicate their stories to their peers (collaboration with Mu Performing Arts) and a spoken-word workshop and performance.
