In all schools today students have different cultural, social, and economic backgrounds that result in very diverse ways of thinking, learning, and behaving. It would be easier to teach if everyone learned in the same way, but not everyone does. Even students with similar backgrounds perceive and process information differently. School systems that rely on a standard teaching platform based primarily on spoken and written word do not reach all these kinds of students.
The arts offer valuable tools to aid learning for those who are primarily visual and kinesthetic, in addition to making it possible for all students to learn more effectively, retain what they have learned, know how to apply what they have learned in a variety of contexts, and feel more positive about learning. Participation in a group art program such as theatre helps children build self-confidence and positive self-image, learn how to interact with one another in a positive way and apply abstract thinking to other areas of their lives (such as academics). They learn to be more open-minded and accepting of diversity and they begin to understand the importance of education and increases academic attendance, especially for youth at risk for delinquent behavior and truancy problems.
Creating theatre encourages cooperation, compromise and commitment - all skills necessary for any work environment. Theatre demands many skills including the coordination and creation of sets, costumes, props, lighting design, scriptwriters, and possibly musicians and dancers. Memorization of lines and action are essential to the process, and great dramatic literature may enrich the actor's memory throughout life.
Unfortunately, the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of 2001 has shifted the focus so much on math and English language skills, many schools have had to eliminate classes and activities which are outside of NCLB's focus area, including physical education and the arts. The result is that students lose the benefits of a broad education.
Theatre Knights in Manchester, NH is committed to providing their students, families and staff with an on-going learning experience in all aspects of theatre production including business and stage management, designing and building sets, costumes, props, lights, make-up, publicity and advertising, and of course, acting. Regrettably, Theatre Knights receives no funding from the school or the school district and relies entirely on fundraising to raise the $25,000 to $30,000 that is needed annually to support the program.
Come to the Theatre Knights Vendor & Craft show in the Manchester High School West cafeteria from 9am to 3pm on Saturday November 14, 2009. You can make a difference! By attending this NH craft show you will be supporting an organization that provides the students of Manchester High School West with a one of a kind educational opportunity. Without your support, this wouldn’t be possible!
