Since
2006, 40 students between the ages of 10 and 18 have written and directed 31
original plays, including 4 musicals. As the young playwrights are guided
through all the aspects of bringing their plays from the “page to the stage”,
they cast, direct, select props and costumes, design sets, and direct lights
and sound design. With mentoring and guidance from Toby Tarnow, these plays
were produced with over 167 students as performers. The workshop provides
students with opportunities to build the confidence and self-esteem,
characteristics important as they transition to adulthood. The One-Act Workshop
is recognized by the NH Board of Education as an Extended Learning Opportunity (ELO)
program and the students may receive high school credit for successful
completion.
A
number of the program’s playwrights and cast members have gone on to study
theater and playwriting. Devon Labonte who wrote four One-Act comedies is currently
studying writing in Edinborough Scotland. Andrew Cass, a playwright of three
One-Act musicals, composed the music for Princess KIM the Musical, which was performed
at the Amato Center for the Performing Arts in 2013.
The
One-Act Playwriting Workshop and Festival engages students in teamwork,
develops integrity, provides opportunities for leadership, and creates a sense
of community, all values of the Boys and Girls Club of Souhegan Valley. Paul Amato, a board member of the Boys &
Girls Club of Souhegan Valley, will present the playwrights with their Award
Certificates on stage before the final performance on Thursday February 19th at
7:30 pm.
We
are very grateful to the Nancy O Foundation of the NH Charitable Foundation for
their generous support. Each year the Nancy O Foundation suggests a theme for
the plays; this year the theme is Wonder.
Help
encourage and support our young playwrights with your attendance; the final
essential element of any play is the audience! Former participants of the One
Act Playwriting program are especially encouraged to attend. The 10th
year anniversary performances are Wednesday and Thursday February 18 & 19
at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $5 and available at the door.
For
more information, contact Toby Tarnow 465-3456 tobytarnow@yahoo.com
A nonprofit organization, the Boys
& Girls Club of Souhegan Valley strives to help all young people develop
into productive caring, responsible, citizens. To support its mission, the Boys
& Girls Club of Souhegan Valley offers daily access to a broad range of
programs designed to help kids succeed academically, be engaged citizens, and
adopt a healthy lifestyle. Visit www.svbgc.org for more information.
