Each year, Riverside Theatre Works brings a multi-cultural story to students in schools that will both educate and entertain. These pieces aid teachers in their curriculum as well as expose students to another culture, a time in history, and a piece of literature.
Whether during the play or afterwards, students participate in hands-on activities related to the story. Examples include making origami cranes for A Thousand Cranes or learning a Dutch dance for Hans Brinker and the Silver Skates or making a Mexican yarn doll for Esperanza Rising. The hands-on activities allow the story to strike a more personal chord with students and teach them more directly about the story's culture.
In addition to a personal activity, students are indirectly exposed to music from the culture being taught. Each play is underscored with music from the country of focus. Through this music, students are more immersed in the culture and the play rather than simply watching a performance.
Because each play brought to schools is based on a piece of literature, teachers have the option of reading the book with their classes before or after the play, sparking the desire to read and make connections between various art forms and cultures.
Plays are followed by a short question and answer session between students and actors. Students often ask questions pertaining to the historical time period during which the play takes place or the geography of the region being portrayed. The moderator of the play does ask students questions about what they just saw as well, testing comprehension and encouraging detailed exploration.
As each play is portrayed by professional actors, students are also exposed to a rich experience and always ask questions about theatrical training, personal responses to the text, and what they were like when they themselves were in school.
Each show lasts approximately 45 minutes with the Q&A session. All sets are designed to fit in a gymnasium, cafeteria, or even a classroom. Each play can be performed for up to 200 students.
Any school wishing to bring more students to the performance must schedule more than one performance. Each performance is $500 and can be scheduled by calling 617-361-7024.
