2007-2008 Neighborhood Bridges Residency Program

chopin Elementary, 7th & 8th grade

Inquiry Question:

"How can I use storytelling, creative writing and performance to consider the question: Who am I?"

Through a partnership between Adventure Stage Chicago and Chopin Elementary, the students examined different genres of storytelling and attended ASC's production of The Blue House, by Jose Cruz Gonzalez. Having critical discussions of well-known stories helped students identify themes of stereotypes, heritage and status/class structure and realize how the way we react to stories is revealing of the values and pre-conceptions we have as individuals. Students approached storytelling through many different means including acting and creative writing exercises. When they returned to ASC in May they presented their version of the Zimbabwean Ndebele tribal tale A Blind Man Catches a Bird.

"Positive Impressions"

“The performance certianly left a positive impression on the students about attending and appreciating live performances! They are also more likely to pursue the reading of plays and novels upon which plays are based. The entire experience was extremely worthwhile, leaving a lasting, motivating impact.”

- Mary Vujic / James Ward Elementary 6th, 7th, 8th Grades