To joyously mark the beginning of spring, the 95 students in the Sixth Grade recently presented William Shakespeare’s
A Midsummer Night’s Dream in the Carlson Family Theater. This delightful Viewpoint tradition, now in its sixteenth year, allows the Sixth Grade students to bring their English curriculum to the stage and learn the art of collaboration.
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a great introduction to the world of Shakespeare for the Sixth Graders,” said Middle School English teacher
Mrs. Cherie Boss. “At this pivotal time in their lives, children appreciate extremes. They are beginning to realize the complexities of the world around them, and they are ready to experience new adventures. This play offers all of it: war and peace, love and hate, calm and disruption. But probably the best thing, this play teaches camaraderie; each and every Sixth Grader participates in the production in some way and together they create a thing of wonder and beauty for all of us.”
Although many of the students have performed in numerous School plays,
A Midsummer Night’s Dream, with its large cast, elaborate costumes, and elegant sets, gives the students the opportunity to play a role either on the stage or behind the scenes. The students serve as stage managers, production assistants, costumers; make-up artists, and assist Viewpoint’s professional technical crew in creating fog and other special effects. On stage, in addition to playing the story’s beloved main characters and very amusing supporting roles, the production also showcases the Sixth Grade’s talented musicians and dancers.
Presenting
A Midsummer Night’s Dream was a collaboration involving not only all of the Sixth Grade students, but many members of the Middle School faculty, as well as the School’s Music and Dance departments. Special recognition goes to
Ms. Pat Giuffrida, Middle School Math Teacher;
Mr. Mario Garcia, Middle School English Teacher;
Mrs. Shawn Burch, Middle School English and Math Teacher;
Ms. Gabrielle Brown, Teacher of Dance;
Ms. Amy Roscigno, Music Teacher;
Ms. Sue Shisley, Accompanist; and all of the members of Viewpoint’s professional theater staff for helping the students to present this wonderful play and bring the classroom to the theater.
Please
click here to view photos of
A Midsummer Night's Dream.
