Penobscot Theatre Company Unveils New School Residency Program

Penobscot Theatre Company has unveiled a new school residency program to help Maine educators bring learning alive in their classrooms. "For years, our teaching artists have taken their talents on the road through our popular Shakespeare in the Schools program," said Director of Education Amy Roeder. "But dramatic education and improvisational techniques have applications well beyond the study of dramatic works. Can we make the Great Bard wildly fun? You bet, but we can also help students tackle Dickens or learn to work more effectively in groups. And of course, we can go deep into the world of theatre, bringing resources many schools don't have on-site." Three new residency programs have been designed to address schools' most common needs, and customized programs are available upon request.

Authors Alive - Classic literature comes to vivid life through plot and character analysis, scene study, and dramatic enactment! We unpack the works of Shakespeare and great American authors to deepen comprehension and help students integrate developing knowledge and ideas.

Improv Alive - Success in school and in life requires deft improvisation! We use the tools of our trade to develop real-world skills like problem-solving, collaboration, critical thinking and communication. This workshop focuses on building a strong and vibrant school culture.

Arts Alive - Behind the scenes of theatre artistry abounds! From make-up, masks and costumes to lighting, sound, and sets, we engage students in design and construction projects that tap their creativity and develop their fine arts and technical skills.

Pricing ranges from $300 for a 90-minute workshop to $2,500 for a weeklong engagement.

"While the residency program connects our artists with students on their turf, our student matinees bring students to our historic home, The Bangor Opera House," said Roeder. "This season, we're delighted to offer student matinees of The Wizard of Oz: December 9, 11, 16, and 18 at 10:00 am." Participating schools receive a student study guide to prepare for the performance and compare and contrast the experience of reading a dramatic text and viewing a staged production. Student groups are invited to stay after the matinee for a "talk-back" session with the actors and creative team to further their understanding of the production's themes and artistic challenges. Student tickets are $6 each and the cost for each chaperone is $10. Through the Maine Arts Commission's Ticket to Ride program, schools may receive funding to defray the cost of bus transportation. To learn more, visit the commission's website.

"For many students, especially in Maine's rural schools, our residency programs and student matinees offer a first glimpse into the dramatic arts, " said Roeder, "and often that can spark a passion and fuel a child's aspirations and interest in learning."

For more details about the residency programs and to book matinee tickets, visit www.penobscottheatre.org and click on the Education tab; or call (207) 947-6618.

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