The In-School Concert/Demonstrations and Plays for Children offer a careful balance of performance and instruction. Space needs are flexible. Program lengths vary from 30 to 50 minutes, depending on the program and audience age. Some experiences are offered in workshop format only, in which a classroom-sized group works closely with an artist and has the opportunity to participate more effectively in the artistic process. Maximum class size has been established to assure successful involvement of all students. Prices for each event vary and are listed with each program description. When maximum numbers are exceeded, the program fee may increase. Schools outside Tuscaloosa County will be charged an extra fee for mileage.
Programs are scheduled subject to the availability of the artists. To schedule a program, call Sandra Wolfe, Director of Educational Programs, at 758-4994, Ext. 4. It will be helpful to have your school’s calendar, daily schedule, and enrollment figures when calling. A confirmation/invoice will be sent after scheduling. All scheduled and confirmed programs are considered binding. Two weeks notice must be given by the school if the program is to be cancelled or the date changed. Should illness, inclement weather, or other unforeseen circumstances prevent the artist from performing, SPECTRA will offer the school the option to reschedule, or receive a full refund.
2 FACE JUGS FOR LITTLE FOLKS
In the traditional style of Southern folk potters, children will love sculpting faces on pre-made mini-face jugs. Presented by Kerry Kennedy. Designed for small groups (10-29 students).
GRADES: K-6 FEE: $8 per child
3 ORIGAMI PAPER ART
A four-week unit instructs children in the Japanese art of paper folding. Satoko Seale of the University of Alabama Japan Culture and Information Center presents this program. Weekly 30-minute lessons are planned for small groups (30 or fewer).
GRADES: 1-6 FEE: $75 SUPPLIES: $1 per child
4 A BLAST OF BRASS
A fun-filled 45-minute musical program designed to introduce students to the brass family of the symphony orchestra. This narrated program is presented by the Tuscaloosa Symphony Brass Quintet. Designed for audiences up to 500.
GRADES: K-6 FEE: $275
5 STORYTELLING
Some of West Alabama’s finest actors are available to come to your class and tell tales that are appropriate to your current curriculum. Advance notification required.
GRADES: K-6 FEE: $55
6 SINGING FROM BACH TO ROCK
A varied program by Shelton State Community College singers demonstrates unique vocal styles that can be heard from classical arias to Broadway and pop styles.
GRADES: K-6 NO FEE
7 SYMPHONIC PETTING ZOO
Children will receive hands-on experience with a variety of symphonic instruments such as violin, trumpet, flute, etc. from the Tuscaloosa Symphony Guild. Limited to 30 students per half-hour.
GRADES: 3-6 NO FEE
9 EXPLORATION IN PAPERMAKING
An introductory class that explores the art of making paper from pulp to sheet. A brief history of paper and an explanation of paper types and their manufacture will be followed by a hands-on workshop. Each student will then form his/her own unique sheet of hand-made paper.
GRADES: K-6 FEE: $2.50 per student
10 GET RHYTHM!
Get Rhythm! teaches children how to express themselves and communicate with others through rhythm and drumming. Get Rhythm! teaches real-life formulas for success: group participation, individual contribution, communication, creativity, and goal setting. The spirit and magic of drums, percussion and rhythm reaches all ages, sexes, religions, races and cultures. An overview of various cultures that use drumming and rhythm is covered. Drums and percussion are provided.
GRADES: K - 8
FEE: $330 for a full day; Limited to 30 students per
45 minute rotation
12 BRUSH UP YOUR SHAKESPEARE
Brush Up Your Shakespeare is a 50-60 minute compilation of scenes and monologues drawn from many of Shakespeare’s most popular and studied works. It features the professional actors of Stage Centre Company who travel with props, scenery, and costumes. The scenery generally consists of stools and a backdrop; all designed to fit easily into several types of spaces. The production is very fast-paced and captivating, relying on the author’s words and use of imagination to open up a new world to the students.
GRADES: K-6 FEE: $300
IN-SCHOOL ACTING WORKSHOPS
Usually in coordination with Brush Up Your Shakespeare presentations. Aimed at lower to middle grades, these workshops introduce students to the concepts of performance through theatre games and improvisation. FEE: Additional charge when combined with Brush Up Your Shakespeare
13 STORYTREE COMPANY
StoryTree offers original theatrical works from the African American experience that build self esteem, broaden the cross-cultural experience, and entertain. Approximately 45 minutes long, including a question and answer session, each work uses a combination of storytelling, a cappella renditions of Negro spirituals, musical instruments, as well as lyrical voices from history. Repertoire includes:
1. Story of a Tree
(History, grades K-5) tells the story of a child brought to America for slavery. Rather than endure bondage, the character, with a little bit of magic from African ancestors, turns into a tree.
2. Kush
(History, grades 2-8) tells the story of a young slave taunted with freedom by a haint (or ghost) until she finally gains enough courage to begin a quest for the Underground Railroad to escape from the plantation.
3. How Santa Found Kwanzaa
(Grades 1 - 5) Young Takoradi enlists the help of Santa to find the thief who has stolen the Grand Book of Nguzo Saba, containing the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa and discovers how much fun it is to celebrate both Christmas and Kwanzaa. FEE PER SHOW: $300
15 GLASS BEAD-MAKING DEMO
Lighting a torch and melting glass gains the student’s attention, while teaching them about the physical properties of glass in a fun and exciting presentation. The art of bead-making, also known as lampworking, will be traced back to its origins while demonstrating the complexities and creative potential of ornamental bead and glass design. Refer to www.setinglass.com.
GRADES: K - 8 FEE: $125 per day for multiple demonstrations or $50 for a single class demonstration
