There was too much rain for Shelly Ridge today, but we had a good day anyway. In the morning, Tom Friedlander, Sophie’s grandfather, spoke to us about his family’s immigrant experience. Thank you to Sophie’s family for arranging the visit! We also had time for a language arts class and some open workshop (much to everyone’s delight!) In the afternoon we rehearsed our theme play and had read-aloud.
All theme classes this week, as well as some other times, were devoted to practicing the play. The life of a performer is not easy! We have been so impressed by the focus, patience, and hard work the children have exhibited as we go over the scenes, practice the monologues, learn the cues, and rehearse the songs! And speaking of the show, we want to make sure you all know that we are performing on Friday, May 16, at 8:45 a.m., with a dress rehearsal on Thursday, May 15, at 1:10 p.m. (parents who can’t make the Friday performance are welcome to attend the dress rehearsal).
For the show, we are hoping that you will be able to help your child put together an appropriate costume. We have already had discussions with the children about what types of clothing they should wear, so your child should be able to tell you what s/he needs. Please let us know if you have questions or think your child needs something that you can’t find. We have asked all children to wear sneakers that are white, black, or gray (or a combination) or black or brown plain shoes. We would prefer no bright-colored shoes and especially no neon-colored shoes, if possible. As far as props go, we are trying to keep it really simple. There are a few items that we need, though, so let us know if you can send in any of them: two folding picnic/beach chairs (NOT the low-to-the-ground kind, should be aluminum with mesh webbing),; a lidded picnic basket, and a piece of African kinté (kente) cloth.
On Thursday we joined with JU-A for a special performance/demonstration of American Indian music by Jerod Impichchaachaaha’Tate, a member of the Chicasaw Nation, who is visiting here and performing tonight with the Philadelphia Classical Symphony at the Trinity Center for Urban Life. Jerod did some wonderful singing for us and led the entire Junior Unit, including teachers, in a giant snake dance all around the gym! This event will be a good reference point for the children next year, when theme studies will include learning about several American Indian cultures.
As we move into performance week, it is very important that children not miss any school and be well rested. Sitting through long rehearsals is tiring. We will try to keep homework assignments to a minimum and ask you to help out by making sure your child has a nutritious breakfast each morning and gets to sleep at a reasonable hour each night. Over the weekend, all children are expected to practice their lines and cues both days and to continue to work on making their delivery loud, slow, clear, and expressive.
