This February, seventh-graders at Chatham Middle experienced a Chatham Artists-in-Schools dance residency with the artists of Black Box Dance Theatre–and it was linked with math concepts, too! Made possible by the cARTwheels funding through the NC Arts Council and private sponsorship through Carolina Credit Union Foundation, the week-long visit included dance workshops with students–and also… Read More →
Poet Phillip Shabazz Visits Silk Hope School
Creative words warmed up a chilly week at Silk Hope School as Phillip Shabazz conducted his Powers of Poetry residency with fifth- and seventh-graders. “Art is an opportunity to express yourself.” –Mr. Shabazz Mr. Shabazz shared some of his own work, the words of others, and then let the students know that they would explore,… Read More →
Mike Wiley Brings Theatre and Writing to Siler City and Virginia Cross
Siler City Elementary (SCE) and Virginia Cross Elementary (VCE) students and teachers enjoyed actor and playwright Mike Wiley’s solo performance of “One Noble Journey” this past November. In addition to the performance, Mr. Wiley hosted teacher and student workshops at both schools during his week-long artist residency in Chatham. An Audience-Fueled Performance: “One Noble Journey”… Read More →
Flourishing with Flamenco at North Chatham and Pollard Middle
This October, the tenth year of the Artists-in-Schools program initiative in Chatham County Schools, began with a flourish of Flamenco, led by four multi-talented artists from the Durham-based Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana Dance Company! Interactive Performances :: North Chatham Elementary and Margaret B. Pollard Middle School Two schools–North Chatham Elementary and Margaret B. Pollard Middle… Read More →
Black Box Residency Bursts with Creativity and Collaboration at J.S. Waters School
Two groups of students–the fifth and seventh grade at J.S. Waters School–ran into the multi-purpose room to greet the lead teaching artists of Black Box Dance Theatre: Natalie, Alfredo, and Kate. “We want to experience something new together! Go on this journey with us!” Natalie urged as the students gathered in a large circle. Giggles… Read More →
Poet Phillip Shabazz Supports Fifth Graders at North Chatham Elementary
“Repeat after me, “ poet Phillip Shabazz began. “Happy Monday! Good to see you! Welcome to our grumpy fifth-grade class!” “We’re gonna have some fun this week! Let’s go! Make some noise!” The fifth-graders at North Chatham repeated each phrase as instructed, clapped with wide smiles, and started their week-long Powers of Poetry artist residency. … Read More →
Black Box Dancers Delight Fourth Graders at Pittsboro Elementary
Just before winter break, Raleigh-based modern dance company Black Box Dance Theatre spent three days with fourth-grade students in high energy dance workshops and performances. Students buzzed with excitement about the experience–and about the upcoming break (which allowed for some creative and colorful outfits!). Class Workshops: Moving and Making with History in Mind The company’s… Read More →
Mike Wiley’s Masterful Residency: Teaching through Theatre at Bennett and Bonlee School
“This was absolutely great!” Board of Education members Gary Leonard and David Hamm were enthusiastic after sitting with Bennett School students and teachers to watch actor and playwright Mike Wiley’s solo performance of “One Noble Journey.” The play’s narrative brought to life the remarkable journey of Henry “Box” Brown, a courageous slave who shipped himself… Read More →
Igniting the Flame of Flamenco: Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana at Moncure School
It was the start of an ordinary school week when an extraordinary opportunity knocked on the doors of Moncure School. A dance residency–led by four international artists from the Durham-based Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana Dance Company–had arrived! The Performance: Where Education Meets Entertainment The Moncure gym’s wooden floor echoed the rap-tap-tap of the dancers as… Read More →
Poetic Pursuits: Phillip Shabazz at Perry Harrison Elementary
As the second week of October rolled in, the weather began to cool, but the fifth-grade classrooms at Perry Harrison were warm and snug. Visiting artist-in-residence Poet Phillip Shabazz strolled in and boomed, “Good morning!” With that, students perked up, and they began . . . A Poetic Adventure Begins The theme of the week… Read More →