Format
Each program will be different depending on the artist and the needs of the class and teacher, but in general each show will look like this:
1. Initial mini-performance
2. Introductions
3. Focus on the art form - history, cultural significance, modern variations
5. Using reused/repurposed materials, create a shadow-puppet character and embue it with movement and vocal style
6. Q&A
7. Final performance (Puppet Parade?)
Objectives
1. Meet an artist, learn about what they do; discover the rich variety of Indigenous art and culture creation going on
2. Discover their art form, the history, background, culture; look carefully at cultural differences - and human similarities - in storytelling different countries and different geographical regions
3. Explore how language, music and art can come together to teach, learn, and communicate
4. Learn about the wide variety of stories from cultural backgrounds around the world
5. Begin a “cultural exchange” between the students and the performer; increase knowledge of different cultures and encourage respect for different traditions and backgrounds
6. Get a hands-on experience of how build a simple puppet, and then use it in a fun “sharing”
7. Consider how the arts can be a force for peace and understanding in the world
Standards Alignment
National Standards
This show makes connections to:
Science: Environment, Climate Change, Plastic Pollution
Engineering
Language
Music: Cultural music, instrument families, rhythm
Cultural Studies
State Standards
available upon request