This morning, IGameMom’s blog, “Read Aloud with Children” reminded me of when I started a youth theatre group in the early nineties – and why.
Although I’d been a founding member of another community theatre group for a few years, directing and turning my hand to wherever was needed, my daughter was a natural on stage and when given parts, did them so well adult actors resented her abilities and complained. She wanted a ‘voice’, even if it meant acting and saying someone else’ words – she wanted the chance to stand up and be heard.
Recognizing a similar need in other teenagers, I started Northern Youth Theatre in 1992 to give them and particularly my 15 year old daughter, more chances to get involved with production on whatever level – and what fun we had!
After introducing ourselves in a welcome circle, sitting on the floor (all on the same level), the next task was reading scripts aloud. I was stunned by how many members told me reading aloud was no longer required in schools!
After four solid years of performance and presentation, this is their ‘Swan Song’, a play called ‘The Rat Race’ with members between the ages of 12 – 18 years old taking all the roles and making the performance happen in 1996. They came up with idea after our brainstorming sessions, 3 members Scott, Jess and Travis wrote the script. All members were involved in the production, acted, directed and even filmed the three sold-out performances. As Artistic Director I was extremely proud of their efforts worthy – and as one adult audience member said; “Why don’t you enter this in the local awards? It would win – it’s that good!”
I’ve always believed reading aloud is an invaluable tool all children should learn until it becomes second nature. The skill to stand in front of others and confidently communicate clearly will take them far.
I think I’ve mentioned before, how many years ago I was commissioned to adapt Mem Fox‘s book ‘Wilfred Gordon McDonald Partridge’ for performance in Joondalup Library.
The little ones loved getting into character and using the simple props I had brought along… perfecting using a walking stick, pretending to be old and grumpy etc. I loved their invention and whole-hearted immersion into a story they already knew and loved so they could ‘live’ it – present it their own way.
It again, was all about giving them a voice and a platform to stand on. To allow children to hold their head up high with shoulders back, to clearly and confidently say what they want to say.
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