An African arts extravaganza arrived at Bennett School this past December. For two days, fifth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade students traveled on a journey through Africa by dancing, drumming, storytelling, and print-making alongside Teli Shabu and his team of teaching artists, The Magic of African Rhythm. On the workshop days, each class rotated through spaces throughout… 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 →
Music Production and Poetry at Bonlee School
“The assembly, as a whole, created a moment of unity and positivity for everyone, and students’ musical creations were the spark for that experience,” shared AIG Teacher, Mark Spring.
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 →
Chatham Grove Elementary Students’ Sensational Safari with The Magic of African Rhythm
“This week, we are going on a safari…a journey together,” announced Teli Shabu, lead artist of The Magic of African Rhythm. Fifth-grade students traveled on their safari at Chatham Grove Elementary with Teli Shabu (pictured, above) and his team of artists last month, exploring the different parts of Africa (North, South, East, and West) through… 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 →
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 →