Kaleidoscope at ASU Gammage

On Feburary 27, ASU Gammage was delighted to host our annual Kaleidoscope program for 85 fifth grade students and teachers from Jefferson Elementary in Mesa. Each year ASU Gammage partners with the ASU Office of Youth Preparation to introduce students to live theater through Kaleidoscope, an eight-week curriculum based program.

Prior to attending a performance at ASU Gammage, students participate in an in-depth unit of lessons and activities that explore the historical and sociological aspects of the show. The Kaleidoscope program recognizes the power of the theatre as a springboard to learning, and reaches out to underserved students to provide an opportunity to experience live theater in a very unique and meaningful way.

Jefferson Elementary students spent the last two months immersed in the magical world of 17 Cherry Tree Lane, participating in a wide array of projects including reading the original P.L. Travers book, creating character poetry, exploring class and status in Edwardian England, and journeying into the imaginary worlds of their own artwork through creative writing projects. Through Mary Poppins the students also learned wonderful life lessons such as: the importance of family; the value of helping others; using their imagination to see the magical in the world around them and that no matter what challenges they might face, if they believe in themselves – anything can happen.

The students arrived at Gammage on Saturday dressed up, excited and ready for their special day. For many this was the first time they had ever attended a live performance. After seeing the spectacular show, students were treated to a dinner reception on the ASU Gammage Promenade with members of the MARY POPPINS cast. One of the highlights of the evening was the chance for students to hear from the cast members. They happily shared their unique experiences as professional performers, provided encouragement for the students to follow their dreams and reminded the students how important education is to their futures. It was truly a magical day!

MARY POPPINS is now in the next city, but she is sure to remain as a very special memory for the 5th grade students and teachers from Jefferson Elementary.