Visiting Artist has Dramatic Impact at BArT11:08AM / Thursday, September 10, 2009
ADAMS, Mass. - The Visiting Artist program at Berkshire Arts & Technology Charter Public School is off to a dramatic start, according to J.P. Henkel, Director of Arts & Technology at BART.
Visiting artist Alexia Trainor, who has been a performer, director, and producer of theatre throughout the Berkshires for the last 15 years, will be running a Drama elective for the first trimester, culminating in a public performance in mid-November. Twenty-two students have signed up for the class, which in addition to meeting during regular school hours, will meet after school 3 days per week starting September 21.
“Drama has always been an important part of BART ” says Henkel, “ We know from experience that it helps students develop concentration, teamwork, confidence, and commitment. Plus it's a lot of fun.” The class has been tailored to the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks for Theatre Studies, but is expected to have crossover into History, Literature, and Art classes, as students will be studying several period plays, including Shakespeare.
The Visiting Artist program at BART has been a significant part of the school's culture since its founding. It is designed to bring local professional artists into the school for an entire term – thus exposing students to art in a personal and high-impact way, as well as supporting the local arts community. This year the visiting artist program will include Ms. Trainor, as well as artists in graphics and sculpture. Thanks to a grant from the NEA, this year's visiting artist program will also include several after-school art clubs, museum field trips, and short-term visiting artists in the middle school. |
