Elmhurst Performing Arts Program

Elmhurst Community Prep, Elmhurst District (2012)

The Elmhurst Performing Arts Program will establish a Theater Arts program for middle school students. Throughout this program our students will re-write and perform a version of West Side Story. Our version titled, East Side Story will reflect social and cultural concerns relevant to our students, as well as current events in our neighborhoods. The original content will serve as a powerful catalyst for incorporating the students’ personal stories into the rewriting process.

The Theatre Arts Instructor/Director will encourage storytelling and discovery of meaning by supporting the students into finding their “voices” that reflect their point of view. Students will be engaged in a highly supportive, lively art-making environment guided by knowledgeable artists/instructors. Students will be able to experience a variety of the dramatic arts firsthand. These activities include play writing, acting, staging, choreography, and performing music. Additionally, students will learn the technical aspects of behind-the-scenes productions such as Stagecraft class. Here they will design and construct the costumes, props, and sets for the play.