The Town Hall Theater’s Education team, namely Courageous Stage’s Lindsay Pontius, Craig Maravich and their wonderful team of artists and educators did an incredible and moving job with about 90 local fifth and sixth graders from four different elementary schools as the kids performed “Henry IV, Part I” last Thursday evening. Congratulations to all involved! I’ve really never seen anything like “Shakespeare: It’s Elementary.”
The kids were so passionate and earnest in their work — acting, singing, and supporting each other. I saw several instances of kids looking out for each other and being incredibly respectful in the ways they moved and interacted with each other. At times, it was controlled mayhem. And, each student seemed to be having the time of his/her life — so much joy! The kids even wrote and performed 5 unique songs — with Clint Bierman.
It was very inspiring and has made my holiday season. Thank you to the student actors, their teachers, and the Ripton, Cornwall, and Shoreham schools, who made this incredible experience possible for these kids. I am so grateful that my daughter was part of this several years ago when she attended Mary Hogan. Students that year performed King Lear. I hope that the work continues for as many kids as possible in the future.
I’m also grateful for the Town Hall Theater in general and all of the ways its staff, programs, resident companies, and supporters help enrich our lives in Addison County and beyond.
Jane Kimble
Middlebury