Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Rockin' the School House!

Riiiiiiiiiiiiiing... school's in session, kids! For 36 kids ranging from ages 7 to 14, school has been in session for the past two weeks as they toiled from 9:00-4:00 each day to prepare the show "School House Rock Jr. LIVE!" All of this hard work is a part of the Alys Stephens Center's first session of summer drama camp.



The kids started off the two-week camp with auditions. From monologues to songs, the kids showed off their talent to Quinton Cockrell, the show's director. The cast list was announced on day two and the kids immediatley began rehearsals. Since that day, the schedule has included warm-ups, theater games, blocking (or giving stage direction), and REHEARSING. The kids have been living, breathing, and singing "School House Rock" day and night. At carpool, we often hear "Conjunction Junction" blasting from the parent's car as they drive away.

The kids have done a terrifc job but the two weeks have not been without stress. Memorizing lines, songs, stage direction, and remembering the daily corrections can be very tiring. Regardless, the kids have done so with joy and enthusiasm day in and day out.

And all their hard work will definitely pay off in the end. The camp culminates with an evening performance of "School House Rock" for friends and relatives. For many of the kids, this will be their first time on stage. I know the parents will be very proud of the strides their kids have made in terms of speaking ability, acting, and confidence. As the Alys Stephens Center intern, I couldn't be prouder of these students' accomplishments. They have certainly rocked the school house... all while learning, making friends, and having fun!

Check out pictures from dress rehearsal!

ASC summer intern Fernanda Lima is a sophomore majoring in Business and Dance at The University of Alabama. Fernanda is a graduate of Vestavia Hills High School.

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