Reflections: "Capturing Me"

Thats All Folks

2010-08-26T09:02:00.000-07:00

Well we recovered from two days of showtime and we are ready to party!
It has been a wonderful Summer and we love our internship at THEARC, the play, the Movie Tuesdays and all the workshops.We have learned that hard work does pay off and work can be fun too as long as you work together. Movie Tuesdays have shown us how to run a theater. the proper way of how to earn a dollar, and we loved to see the little children happy. Our workshops have addressed several teen issues that will definitely come up in our prime years. They have been both informational and interesting. Thanks to all the speakers that have participated in enlightening our youth. Today is the closing ceremony. We have made new friends and lasting relationships. We are having a pizza party at the splash park today so come join the fun.

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR SPONSORS FOR MAKING ALL OF THIS POSSIBLE!

SHOWTIME: Carpe Diem

2010-08-25T17:10:00.000-07:00

Today is the day for success, Carpe Diem! We may be slightly nervous, but we're ready for action. It's premiere time and everyone is ready to bring Kelsey E. Collie's (Kelsey E. Collie Children's Theatre Experience) "Do You Like Good Music" into artistic perfection. Mr. Collie is an internationally known children's theatre producer, director, writer, teacher, and advocate. He founded the Howard University Children's Theatre and led it to become the most outstanding new children's theatre in the United States in 1974. For 37 years, he has developed many of the performers seen on television, stage, in motion pictures and recordings. His award winning chronology, "Black Images/Black Reflections" was staged in Dundalk Ireland's Town Hall. He directed "Night of the Divas" with Cicely Tyson, Nancy Wilson, The Louis Johnson Dancers and Clamma Dale at the Kennedy Center. Collie has conducted workshops in Finland, Czechoslavakia, the Bahamas, and Canada.

We have done dress rehearsal and are awaiting the start of the production as I type. Here is a few pictures of us getting ready:
Here is Karrell Partee getting the costumes ready and picking out an afro for the Jackson 5 ABC skit.

Here is Josiah and Eric inspecting the microphones.

Our stage manager Dylan is in place and ready to direct everything for the play. She has to keep in contact with the sound to cue when the music should begin for each performance, she has to direct lighting to make sure that the right people are in the spotlight and she has to keep everyone in the play on cue for when they should enter and exit the stage. She's a busy woman!

Ms. Shirley is conducting a short meeting with everyone before the play. All the ushers should know important information like where special guests should sit, which seats should be reserved, and they should know the fire emergency plan just in case.

Okay it's showtime and the show has begun. Wish us luck.
Here is a shot of the play from backstage:

Here is a special shot of the Jackson Five singing ABC

The Temptations

Kianna Lewis sings "Will You Still Love Me"

The show was a hit! The crowd loved it and they are screaming for more. We have another show later tonight and don't forget about tomorrow's performance. Thank you THEARC interns, staff, Robin Harris and Mr. Collins for a lovely performance.
Kelsey Collie Would like to send a special thank you to the parents and guardians of the participants; Robin Harris and her capable staff at THEARC; the Department of Parks and Recreation; Serenity Players; and St. Teresa of Avila congregation; Bill Crewes; Edmond Fleet; Executive Director of THEARC; Joyce Collie; Carolyn Martin Andrews; Maria and Warren Hemphill; and all others who have made valuable contributions for the success of this theatrical experience.

ALL HANDS ON THE SET..PLACES EVERYONE

2010-07-29T16:38:00.000-07:00

I hope you like good music because Showtime is literally tomorrow and our cast & interns are working hard for the money. These past six weeks have been filled with blood, sweat, & tears and everything looks very professional.The set looks amazing, the props are painted and ready to go & the choreography is on point! The different classes on sound, lighting, staging, and set design made an extensive impact on how the "I Can" interns see theater. Being part of the production process brings together what we have learned in workshops and puts it all in practice during showtime.

Our production team includes a few key players that have demonstrated an interest in select tasks behind stage. Dana and Patrick are holding down the lights with Mr. Murray, Kia is up in the sound booth, making things groovy and Norris is behind stage handling the microphones. Ashley is behind stage dealing with cast movement and placement, while Dylan holds everything down as stage manager. Kiarra, Eman, and Darlissa are the costume handlers, which is very important. I am proud about everything I see here. Tomorrow marks a milestone for the interns.

As for those who are in the cast for the production, they are excited to be on stage. Christopher Page will be in a few songs/performances and Kianna Lewis stars as Gladys Knight

"Do You Like Good Music" premieres Friday at 2pm and 7pm and on Saturday at 2pm. Be there to see Soul personified as talented kids.

Abuse is no Joke

2010-07-28T11:41:00.000-07:00

Andrew is a thirteen year old who lives in a nice suburb with his father and mother. After school he finds places to hangout because he is too scared to go home at night because his father treats him very badly and often talks down to him. His father drinks too much after a hard day of work and Andrew usually witnesses his mother being beat for any minor reason. Andrew is too scared to talk to his school counselor about his father because he might get in trouble with his father and he is afraid of what people might say about his situation. One day Andrew goes home to find his mother bruised and battered and he decides to take matters into his own hands. Andrew's father comes home and sees that his family is trying to leave him. He begins to beat Andrew and threatens his mother's life. Andrew and his mom are victims of Abuse.

Abuse, Domestic violence, and rape can be crippling to the body and mind. If the person you're involved with acts controlling, aggressive, coercive, or violent, that's abuse. Relationships can be abusive even if there is no hitiing: abuse can be verbal, emotional, physical, or sexual, or a combination of these. Any demographic can find themselves victim to abuse...black, white, young, old, male, female, poor and rich. Just think of the movies that touch on the topic of abuse, Antoine Fisher, Tina Turner, The Jackson Five Movie and Tyler Perry's Madea's Family Reunion. All of these movies show how abuse effects your self-worth, your family, and your everyday life. Abuse does not and will not be tolerated. The first step of conquering it is recognizing your self-worth and value your self esteem. It's funny how all of our lectures are related and can serve as answers to similar problems. The Anger Management lecture touched on how anger can be conquered. Anger is weakness for the abuser. If you can control your anger you are in control of yourself and you realize the potential of how your actions effect another person. The Love and Loss lecture stressed the importance of self-worth and self esteem. If you do not love yourself then why would you expect someone else to do the same. The Communication lecture touched on the importance on communicating your problems with an adult/parent. Communicate with a parent, friend, or an authority figure to help you with an abusive relationship. Believe it, these lectures are actually the steps to take in an abusive relationship and can save a life. Sadly, one of the reasons that cause abusive relationships to continue is that people are too afraid to seek help. If you truly care about yourself and your family you will take action.

Today the boys and girls had separate lectures on abuse. The boys focused on how to control anger and positively express anger and how to prevent an abusive relationship. The girls discussed the signs of abuse, how to deal with it, and how to get help when it is needed. Believe it or not boys are often found in an abusive relationships with their parent. The abusive behavior is then "inherited" and eventually plays out in their own intimate relationships, thus contributing to the cycle of abuse. Did you know that women, especially teens experience sexual abuse with their boyfriends/husbands, and even fathers? Girls and women ages 16 to 24 are most likely to be abused in a dating relationship.It is very important that you know the signs of an abusive relationship so you can save a friend or your self.

An Abusive relationship often causes verbal, physical, mental, abuse, threatens you if you try to seek help, an abuser can have dominance over finances ( so they can make it hard for you to leave), an abuser wants to know where you are every second of the day, an abuser will do anything to get their way, and an abuser isolates you from other people.

Based on Andrew's story which I have previously mentioned, to solve his problem he should have told a friend. a policeman, and counselor about his situation. Fear should be conquered. Andrew was too afraid to talk to any of these people but by doing so he could have saved himself and his mother. Many people are too afraid to seek help but remember the possibility of getting hurt is far more serious than what people may think about your situation.

For more information on abuse please call your local police station and go to counseling. Life is precious...live it and live it responsibly

The Forecast Calls for Meatballs

2010-07-28T10:17:00.000-07:00

Flint Lockwood thinks he's a genius. But none of the things he invented are things that make sense or are useful. However, he has the support of his mother but when she dies, he's left alone with his father who thinks he should give it up. When the community that he lives in, is in an economic crisis because their primary source of income a sardine cannery was shut down, Flint decides to try his latest invention, a machine that can turn water into food. But something goes wrong and the machine ends up in the atmosphere. Later it starts raining food. And so the shifty mayor tries to use this as a way to help their community. But when Flint sense something's wrong with the machine, the mayor convinces him to ignore it. But as Flint predicts, chaos ensues.

This is our second to last movie premiere as the program end date grows closer with each day. Today THEARC housed over 500 eager children waiting to see the box office hit "Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs". It was crowded, chaotic, loud and an intense day, but in the end we had enough snacks to fill the masses. This was the most tedious Movie Tuesday yet. We expect the same amount of people for the upcoming premiere of the Disney hit "Princess & the Frog". Next week will be magical, with a karaoke machine, games, and tons of free stuff. Stay Tuned for Movie Tuesday next week!

BASKETBALL JONES

2010-07-25T17:12:00.000-07:00

The Boys & Girls Club played host today for the basketball clinic. The interns had the chance to show their Lebron skills and learn a lot about the game, basketball exercises, and ball handling. The boys and girls split into teams for a nice game of KNOCKOUT. In knockout you have a limited time to shoot a basket and score before your opponent. If your opponent makes the shot first, then your KNOCKED OUT! It was a nice day to shoot a couple of hoops and stretch your legs. The girls were pretty good and the boys loved the competition.

VERBAL FIRST-AID MANAGING THE MOUTH & MIND

2010-07-25T14:57:00.000-07:00

How many people really know how to handle anger? Have you used the silent treatment? Does swearing put people in their place? Do you keep your feelings in, or do you go an attack someone? All of these may be a sign that anger management is needed. Being human means that you may go through several emotions and all of them need to be expressed and controlled. Anger is a natural reaction to an unpleasant situation. You can identify internal cues to feeling angry: Clenched fists; increased heart rate; pressure on the temples; sweaty palms; clenched jaw; and feeling tightness and flushed. Anger management can be summed up in a simple phrase, "YOU NEED TO TAKE CONTROL BEFORE YOU LOSE CONTROL". Remember that only you can control your own actions, it's never someone else's fault. Here are a few pointers to live by when you feel anger:

Agree to disagree
Ask your self if it is worth it
Walk away & cool off
Compromise, Give a little, get a little
Deal with things later
Be the better person
Laugh it off

There is a thin line between being angry and being aggressive. Aggressive behavior is looked down upon and there will be actions taken either by law or by another person. You may throw things, become irate, curse, gang up on someone, or cause physical harm. All these actions can and will get you in trouble; loss of a job; loss of family/friends; loss of social privileges; going to jail; loss of a life; and loss of your social reputation

The healthy way to manage angry is to be true to your emotions by expressing your feelings. Be reasonable and establish a middle ground. Use words like "I feel this...when you..."

The more you can control anger, the more powerful you become. Practice cooling off, watch your thoughts, and always be mindful of the other person. Exercise, relaxing,listening to music, taking a nap and keeping a journal are great outlets. Most importantly is to learn to forgive and forget. As humans we make mistakes all the time, give people a second chance. Human nature is a powerful thing and it can get out of control. Control is the key word here. Blaming other people for your own actions gets you nowhere.

In short, the best way to deal with your emotions. Do not hold on to your anger. Find ways to safely express it. Use communication and look for a good listener to talk to. Filter bad thoughts, filter bad words, and be mindful of your actions.
Congratulations, you have successfully completed Pastor Steven's Anger Management course. Use this information wisely to protect yourself and others. : )

Our discussion lead us to some interesting conversations about self respect, the opposite sex, and how the younger generation has lost it's way. Chris Paige has a few words from the discussion about self respect and how women should address themselves. Check out the video

TOY STORY 2

2010-07-22T15:36:00.000-07:00

In "Toy Story 2," the fun and adventure continues when Andy goes off to summer camp and the toys are left to their own devices. Things shift into high gear when an obsessive toy collector kidnaps Woody who unbeknownst to himself is a highly valued collectable. It's now up to Buzz Lightyear and the gang from Andy's room - Mr. Potato Head, Slinky Dog, Rex and Hamm - to spring into action and save their pal from winding up as a museum piece. There's plenty of excitement and fun as the toys get into one predicament after another in their daring race to get home before Andy does.

I think the children thoroughly enjoyed their day. Movie Tuesday ended with a "pop", the sound of balloons popping on the floor.
It was another day of making snacks and earning a dollar. Thank you everyone for making the day a hit.
Check out the slide show:

Teach me How to Doug E.

2010-07-19T15:11:00.000-07:00

Stars, musical artists, and other public figures just seem to show up at THEARC these days. We are always having a surprise guest every now and then for the kids. Legendary beat boxer and Hip Hop great Doug E. Fresh dropped by the neighborhood today to teach the kids a little about Strokes and how to live a healthy life with the Hip Hop Stroke Program. The Hip Hop Stroke Program is part of Harlem Hospital Center Stroke Center’s multi-year Stroke Initiative to provide screening services and educate the community to recognize stroke symptoms.
Doug E. Fresh is an American rapper, record producer, and beat boxer, also known as "the Human Beat Box". One of the earliest recorded beat boxers, Fresh is able to accurately imitate drum machines and various special effects using only his mouth.He also taught us how to Doug E. (it's a dance if you did not know : ). We had lots of fun learning fun facts and we did some exercising here and there.

Did you know that In the United States, a stroke is a leading cause of adult disability and the third-leading cause of death? African Americans between 34 and 55 have the highest stroke death rates, and are 3-4 times more likely to suffer a stroke than white Americans. Yet as a group they are less likely to receive or ask for information on how to decrease, prevent, or manage stroke A stroke is known as a brain attack. It is caused by the lack of oxygen to the brain. Clogged arteries and veins are the leading causes of a stroke. That is why eating healthy should be a top priority, especially in the United Stated, because we are known to eat a lot of fast foods and we are one of the top countries that have a high obesity rate. Doug E. taught us a cool rap to recognize the signs of a stroke.

"F" is for the Face
"A" is for the Arm
"S" is for the Speech
"T" is for the Time
Time to do what?
"Call 911!"
Time to do what?
"Call 911!"

How do you prevent a stroke? Well just watch your calories. Consume calories based on your age, weight, and activity level. Eat more fruits and vegetables and exercise! Always act FAST and you could save a life.

Check out the fun!:

Chris and Johhnie have dance skills:

PEACE, NOT WAR!

2010-07-17T17:52:00.000-07:00

Mr. Michael Stepowany gave a history lesson today about the late 60's and how our props will relate to that time period. The 60's were awkward years for the US, much like today, it was filled with war, political and sociologic tension, and the country seemed divided.
There was: Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I have a dream" speech, psychedelic music, Kennedy's assassination, the Vietnam War, and the first man to walk the moon. It was a time when Hippies practiced the love movement and many were demonstrating against the Vietnam War. The Vietnam War was a Cold War military conflict that occurred in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia from November 1, 1955, to April 30, 1975 when Saigon fell. This war followed the First Indochina War and was fought between the communist North Vietnam, supported by its communist allies, and the government of South Vietnam, supported by the United States and other anti-communist nations. The United States entered the war to prevent a communist takeover of South Vietnam as part of their wider strategy of containment.

There is a scene in the play when people are demonstrating, so we made and painted picket signs for the protestors. Mr. Stepowany explained that there were several protest demonstrations throughout the 60's but the majority of them were about the Vietnam war.In the 60's was also the Black Power Movement and there was still racial tension between African Americans and Whites. All these details make up "Do You Like Good Music".

Here are a few signs that the interns made:

Walking the Cat walk

2010-07-17T17:08:00.000-07:00

Mr. Walker made many overcome the fear of heights today, when he lead the group upstairs on the cat walk. "I do this all the time on the job", he says, "It's just part of the job." Many of the interns had second thoughts about following Mr. Walker, but he encouraged them to go on. All you have to do is just do not look down. There are several lights up there and at some point the interns are going to have to learn how to use them during the opening of "Do You Like Good Music". Kia Johnson was one of the one's who had a difficult time with heights. "I was crying up there", she said. It's okay because she conquered her fears and went up there anyway. She was all smiles when she came down. On another date Mrs. Robin Harris, the program coordinator, took us up again to the catwalk and Kia went up there freely and came down as a triumpher of fears. Hopefully, she will be one of the people who are controlling the lights during the play. After the trip from the cat walk Mr. Walker returned to the ground to teach more about lighting. Kia, Norris Wiggins, and Dana Smith are the leaders of the pack when it comes to lighting. They all take to it naturally and helped Mr. Walker setup the lighting mirrors for the play. Each of the interns are showing their different strengths with each class. I am confident that together, they will make this play the best yet.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
A Tour of the House

We took a break from costume design today and Ms. Robin took us on a tour of the house in preparation for the play, and she taught us some of the production lingo (front of the house, stage right, stage left...etc.) She made sure that we knew the in's and out's of everything and she explained how things will be set up on stage. Ms. Robin is a production pro and has been involved in theater since she was a teenager. She is also a Howard University alumni. We are learning from a pro. Our stage manager Dylan will be under Robin's wing for the upcoming weeks and she will have to fill some big shoes.

Movie Tuesday Presents Jungle Book 2

2010-07-17T08:09:00.000-07:00

Movie Tuesday Was a hit again with the showing of "Jungle Book 2".The plot goes a little something like this, Mowgli feels out of place in his new home, despite the efforts of his friend Shanti and his new little brother. So when Baloo arrives for a visit, the man-cub takes the opportunity to return for some fun in the jungle. However, Shanti, believing her friend was taken, follows them. With Shere Khan still on the hunt for him, Mowgli must protect himself and the ones he cares about from the dangers ahead. The new adventures make him reconsider his decisions and decide which he wants more - a life of laid back hilarity with Baloo in the jungle or a simpler existance in the man village with Shanti.

The Movie began and the kids filed in and enjoyed another day of treats, popcorn, and balloons. It was another day of work for the interns, although it was worth it because they love to see the children smile. The interns spent the day preparing by blowing up balloons, popping the popcorn, making snow cones, and getting the supplies from the Splash Park. After the movie the kids got to mingle and enjoy some snacks. The cotton candy station was well organized again, being the most popular station. Kia, Giovanni, and Kiarra held things down. They beginning to be cotton candy pros. The snow cone station was also hit. It was run by Erica and Dylan. Eman was solo at the popcorn station, but she handled things brilliantly. Darlesa and Dana handled the pickles and the rest of the crew were ushers. I just want to thank everybody for a wonderful job!

Here's Ms. Shirley giving directions and the House rules to her ushers.

The Two L's: Love & Loss

2010-07-15T16:35:00.000-07:00

What does it mean to love? Who should you choose to love? How do you handle a loss? These questions will arise sometime in life and we all have to address them accordingly and today Pastor Robin M. Stevens from the Sr. Servant Kingdom of Priests Community Church came to spread her knowledge and expertise on the answers. One of the most important things that she told her class was to love yourself FIRST. You cannot experience love without loving yourself first. You cannot give something to someone, such as love, if you do not have it inside of you first. To love yourself you must do some soul searching and see what makes you unique. These are the steps to loving yourself. First, you have to love your uniqueness and accept your flaws AND your strengths, while eliminating any form of self criticism. Second, you must be kind to yourself and think positive. Pastor Stevens said, "When you start to think kindly and positively about yourself, the love you have for yourself just grows". That love will grow so much that you will want to share it and spread it to others. Third, Acknowledge your effort. We all need to a least try to do better at things, even if we fail it is all about trying. Forgive your self for your flaws. We all are not perfect, but we need to acknowledge our flaws in order to grow. Be truthful to yourself. Never try to be someone you are not because you will miss out on inner peace.

Pastor Stevens also talked about how to choose those you want to bring into your life. Proverbs 12:26 reads, "The righteous should choose his friends carefully, for the way of the wicked leads them astray." This brings up the questions, What is a friend? How can you choose true friends?. Pastor Stevens urges us to be picky about our friends because you do not want to bring someone that may harm you into your life. Choose a person that has similar interests. Choose some who gives and takes as equally as you give and take. Balance is the key to any relationship. Choose friends that make you feel your best. Surround yourself with positive people who genuinely want you to continue to do better and happier in your life.

HOW TO DEAL WITH LOSS

Everyone's time on earth is limited and death is inevitable. We will eventually lose someone that we love. Pastor Stevens says that grief is important and a healthy human response to situation that causes a loss, including death or separation. The Grieving process is important and it may take years to complete it. Each person must go though the grieving process on his or her own timetable and way. Vulnerability, tears, pain, guilt/regret, and anger/ frustration are natural reactions.

Lastly, Pastor Stevens says be open to change. Accepting change can make a magnitude of situations better to cope with. Accept that nothing stays the same. Change can make you feel insecure when your personal foundation or the reality that you have gotten used to is no longer the comfortable way it was before. Remember that life does go on and you will create a new foundation that you will eventually get comfortable with. Pastor Stevens ended her class with this, "When you love with an open heart and you share yourself with the world, you respect another's right to live free and unbounded to you by possessive love or need. You are you, and they are who they are, and the connection between you is built on respect and love for each other's right to be."

KNOW LOVE, ACCEPT LOVE, SHARE LOVE.

A SNEAK PEAK

2010-07-14T17:55:00.001-07:00

Kianna Lewis and Christopher Page are the two of the singers from THEARC, that sing in the production "Do You Like Good Music". The play was originally created by Melvin Andrews and Kelsey E. Collins has revised the play to show his own creative spin on things. Mr. Page and Ms. Kianna both love dancing, singing, and acting. They have been practicing for the play for weeks now and it is a count down for three more weeks until "Do You Like Good Music" to debut. Both Chris and Kianna have aspirations of becoming famous. I think we have two upcoming movie stars here! Kianna plays the lead singer from one of the great Motown groups...I will not tell which one and Chris is a Pip of Gladys Knight and the Pips. Chris will be seen in most of the musical numbers like "Upon the Roof" and "My Girl".

I have a sneak peak of Kianna dancing in "You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman" by Aretha Franklin. Here is Kianna (the young lady in the blue hat) struttin' her stuff.

Chris and Kianna are honored to work with choreographer Roslind White. Ms. White began her musical and theatrical career early as a teenager and is a graduate from the Duke Ellington School of the Arts. Ms. White has had her share of the lime light. She was a background singer for Yolanda Adams and she has toured nationally with the theatrical production "Dream Girls".
Click Play to see her interview:

Stay tuned for more sneak peaks of "Do You Like Good Music"

Take a look of her choreography skills:

"HELLO, MY NAME IS..."

2010-07-12T17:31:00.000-07:00

Allow me the pleasure to introduce the upcoming young business men & women of America! I am thrilled to be in the presence of these men & women, because they have so much potential. I hope you enjoy the interesting bios on THEARC's Summer interns.

BIOGRAPHIES

Patrick Eric Lyles is from Temple Hills, MD. He enjoys Drawing and playing video games.
Patrick writes: " I am 13 years old. I love to draw and play video games. I hope to make comics. I am not very active and usually sit in the house with my two older sisters. I am thankful that I have something productive to do and I love having a fulfilling job. I hope that I can get a really good work experience from this program."

Ashley Johnson

"My hobbies are shopping, texting, and working. I am 16 and 8 months. My dream jobs are either becoming a OB/GYN, a day care owner, a nurse or doctor, or pediatrician."

Darlissa Woodson

"I was born in Washington, DC Southeast. My age is 14. I love to cheer, dance, and make people laugh. I want to be a pediatrician when I grow up. I live with my mother and my brothers and sisters. I think this program is fun and you can learn a lot, and the people here in this program are really nice."

Eman Stroman

"I was born on August 08, 1995. My hobbies are drawing, painting, and playing softball. I have a brother and a half sister. I go to school at Bishop Mc Namara, class of 2013. I think this program is a great place to make new friends and even start your career."

Maria Hill

"Hello my name is Maria and I am 14 years old. My birthday is December 6th. My hobbies are dancing, singing (every now & then), and hanging out with my friends. My dream job is to be a dancer because I love to dance."

Dana Smith

"Hello, my name is Dana Annette Smith. I was born at Prince George's County Hospital in Maryland. My hobbies are tennis and golf Wii. I want to be a Chef when I grow up. I also like to sing. I am glad that I have been introduced to new friends and have a chance to work at THEARC."

Kianna Lewis

"Hello, I am Kianna Lewis. I was born in Spokane, Washington on April 17, 1993. My hobbies are singing, acting, dancing, writing, and paying video games. I want to be a singer, then after an established career I want to do broadway. I think this program is amazing. It gives us as youth, a chance to work and experience. The different programs and places to work is really good too. I am very thankful for this chance and I am definitely taking advantage of everything."

Christopher Page

"I'm Chris. I was born on August 26, 1993 at Holy Cross Hospital. I sing, I dance, I act, I draw, I play basketball. I desire to be famous. I aspire to be a professional actor (on and off screen) and/or a professional recording artist. I hope to own my own record company."

Dylan Robinson

"Hello, I am Dylan. My hobby is dancing. I want to be a pediatrician when I grow up. I am 13 and I go to Crofton Middle School. I enjoy this program. I am the stage manager."

Kia Johnson

"I am in high school and I attend Wise. I am a very athletic and outgoing person. I run track and dance. After college I hope to pursue a career as a marine biologist."

Kierra Mims

"My name is Kierra Mims. I'm currently attending Springarn Senior High School. My favorite colors are purple, orange, and green. My hobbies are playing volleyball, skating, going to different types of water parks, laughing and entertaining people."

Norris Wiggins

"Hello, my name is Norris and my hobbies are drawing, computers, and Music. I like to observe people and see how they act. I enjoy sports, any forms of art, and using the computer to be creative. In the future I will like to go to Morgan State University and major in graphic designing and also learn how to be a producer."

Giovanni Copeland

"My name is Giovanni Copeland and I am 15 years old and what I like to do is run track and be outside with friends and family. I like to go to a lot of places and have fun. My dream job is to become a nurse because I like to help people and I think it will be fun to do that in life."

Kerrell Partee

"I am 15. I was born in Washington, DC. I like the program because it gives me something to do besides being outside all day. I also get paid to do stuff in the theater. Overall this is a good program and I am a good person."

Ericka Tolver

Hello, my name is Ericka and I am 16 years old. I like to listen to music, go shopping and I like to hang out with my friends and family. I want to become a successful business woman who can handle any job. I love this program, because it teaches me how to work hard and be professional. It is all worth it in the end because you get rewarded for your hard work.

SNAPS, BUTTONS, AND CLIPS

2010-07-08T15:10:00.000-07:00

It's fun being a seamstress even though it takes a while to get the hang of things! Mr. Michael Murray returned to THEARC today to teach how to sew different buttons and snaps on fabric. The class learned a lot about paying attention to detail. It takes time and patience to sew and you have to be extra careful to get things done right the first time, so you do not have to retry things over and over. These are great skills to contribute to a professional job...patience, precision, and paying attention to detail. Not to mention, it's a great idea to teach people how to replace a button on a business suit. It's funny how this workshops can teach skills in a not so obvious way.

Here is Norris Wiggins showing his skills....he is pretty good at this sewing thing

This is a picture of Norris Wiggins, so you can put a face to the name. Smile Norris!

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

A FUN DAY AT THE SPALSH PARK

Today we had the privilege to meet Dante and Delonte, the two William C. Smith "We can Soar" participates, at the Splash Park. They both handle the concession stand, which consists of making popcorn, hot dogs, hamburgers, drinks, snow cones, and more. I commend them for working on hot day. We had the chance to interview them about the program. Here is Dante's perspective, he's a little camera shy:

Delante

Dante shares his view:

Health, Hygiene, Nutrition, and Fitness

2010-07-07T16:28:00.000-07:00

One of the perks of being at THEARC's Summer youth program is the different speakers that come to spread their expertise on different topics. The presentations are not only informative but they give vital information for your everyday life. The information could also save your life!

Dr. Yolanda Lewis-Ragland gave direction today with a presentation on health, fitness, and hygiene. Her presentation reviewed the importance of exercise to avoid diabetes, depression, and obesity. She also reviewed nutrition and the food pyramid and emphasized the importance of fruits and vegetables.

As far as nutrition goes, there are a number of articles that discuss our Nation's obesity epidemic. Obesity and diabetes are plagues to the African American community because of the failure to go to the doctor, failure to exercise, and failure to eat nutritional foods. Diseases from malnutrition do not only affect the African American community, they are harmful to everyone. For example, commercial businesses pitch greasy foods to children such as, Mc Donald's commercials. Kids also do not know about the rewards of exercise, because they are busy playing video games or it is too dangerous to play outside because of the high violence and kidnapping rate.

Hygiene plays an important role in keeping healthy and it enables longevity. Brushing your teeth, bathing, and wearing clean clothes not only helps health wise, but it gives a presentation of cleanliness and a positive presentation of yourself, which is important when you have a job. At an interview if you look dirty, smelly, and not put together you may not get the job, because you are giving a signal that you just do not care.

Dr. Lewis-Ragland ended her presentation with some exercise and delicious smoothies. Yum!

Dr. Lewis-Ragland is the aunt of Kianna Lewis. Here is Kianna enjoying a nice smoothie

Check out this video of exercise time!

LIGHTS, CAMERA ACTION!
Mr. Joe Walker returned today to teach the class about how to use light gels (color filters) on lights, how to make interesting shapes with the light shutters and he reviewed the different types of lights and lighting. Lights are not easy to manipulate, the class needed some help from Mr. Walker. Here are a few pictures from today's session

MOVIE TUESDAY

2010-07-07T15:37:00.001-07:00

After a long holiday weekend came a wonderful day to get out of the intense heat and watch a nice entertaining movie at THEARC. Children from various Summer camps and the Boy's and Girl's club came running in to see one of the Disney/Pixar greatest-hits, "Finding Nemo". What more could you ask for? There was air conditioning, a free movie, balloons, and snacks were on sale for a $1. The "I Can" participates at THEARC learned the meaning of hard work during their prep for the movie. A ton of balloons had to be blown up, the slushies had to be made, the popcorn had to be popped, and the cotton candy had to be hot off the machine. At the end of the day, the youth learned that the making of a dollar can go a long way.

Here are a few pictures from today

Kia and Maria are working hard blowing up balloons

Karrell is making some interesting things

Here are the kids enjoying the fruits of their labor

Johnny Sweet serves up a nice cold slushie

DAY 5: Set the Mood

2010-07-05T11:29:00.000-07:00

Today We took a trip to one of the top Historically Black College Universities, Howard University..go Bisons! "
Here is Maria enjoying our bus trip to Howard

To study at Howard University is choosing an institution that is experienced, dynamic, and diverse – with a tradition of quality education since 1867 provided by the constant engagement of its faculty toward the students and their needs, and by its rich campus social and cultural life."-www.howard.edu.

Howard University has opened its doors to us to study with Michael Stepowani, who the Technical Director. Mr. Stepowani will be assisting us in building the set and informing us on what set design is all about.

The context and environment in which a situation is set; the background, the time, place, and circumstances in which a narrative, drama, or film takes place defines the set. Take a moment to think of any plays or films that have a great set. What made it realistic, recognizable, and informational. A good set will have all those aspects. Keep that in mind when we start building the set for "Do You Like Good Music" next week.

Here are a few pictures of our trip:

Day 4: DRESS THE PART & LISTEN TO THE BEAT

2010-07-01T19:11:00.000-07:00

DRESS THE PART

Costume's set the time, mood, and elude to the setting in both plays and movies. It's important that the costumes fit perfectly for the audience and the actor. For example, let's say you have a set based on the '70s, baggy pants and oversized white tees definitely do not fit the part or time. If the audience sees baggy pants they might think, "oh, this is a modern day play and it's probably urban based...I should expect some Hip Hop references. But if the play is set in the '70s and the actor has pants that are not fitted properly then, the actor also may have trouble walking in them and possibly fall while on stage. Costume Designer Michael Murray says, "measuring is everything". Mr. Murray gave an assignment based on measuring the body. Today we had to pair-up with a partner and take each other's measurements in preparation for "Do You Like Good Music?" . Get ready for costumes from Motown's prime years. Yes, that means afros, bell bottoms, & sparkly sequence.

LISTEN TO THE BEAT

Take a moment, be silent and just listen to the noise around you. If you were to record the noises it will be called white noise, which is a variation of sound. Sound can be controlled and manipulated through a sound board, which is a hollow chamber whose dimensions allow the resonant oscillation of electromagnetic or acoustic waves. It's essential that sound is controlled during performances because you want the noises to be distinguished for the audience, the actors, and anyone who is recording the performance.

Today we had the privilege to learn a few things from a professional sound technician, Mr. Garcia. Mr. Garcia controls the sound at THEARC and has his own thriving sound company that is well known throughout DC. He has done several events, including a Father's Day Convention, which President Barrack Obama was present! He defines sound as input and output...simple right? Well, ask the Summer Youth and they will tell you that sound can be quite complex.

Mr. Garcia is one tough cookie and he challenges the youth to THINK, when he asks questions. Here he is quizzing the youth about what they learned...you better get things right or you will be doing push-ups.

Day 3: The Lime LIGHTS!

2010-07-01T15:00:00.000-07:00

DISCUSSION TIME

An important part of any job or even any relationship in life begins with Communication. This is a key lesson for any young person to learn early in life and it may even prevent any obstacles that may pop-up in a variety of situations. This Morning began with a presentation and discussion by Ms. Beverly Carroll and special guest, Minster Page. Ms. Carroll and Minister Page invited us to join their in a discussion about Parent-Child Communication, and its importance in young people's lives. An interesting topic presented itself, "Why are the youth not encouraged to talk to adults about intense troubles that commonly plague teens?" The top response was embarrassment, especially when it comes to discussions that may become arguments or lectures about sex and drugs.

Minister Page and Ms. Carroll stressed that parents want to be included in their children's lives because they love them and want to prevent their child from making the mistakes that they themselves have made earlier in life. Nevertheless, this was a deep an intimate discussion that was very productive. Thank you Ms. Carroll and Minister Page!

THE LIME LIGHTS
Mr. Joe Walker, former instructor for the Duke Ellington School of the Arts and renowned Lighting Designer for Tyler Perry, Musiq Soulchild, Erykah Badu, and other internationally known artists, had the courtesy of instructing theater lighting and lighting technology. Mr. Walker Introduced the students to the various lights used in theater and the importance of having great lighting in a production. Everybody had a chance to match fun lighting schemes to the rhythm of popular Hip Hop hits.

Here the class experiments with the lights

Nice technique

Concessions Sessions

2010-06-30T15:26:00.000-07:00

Popcorn, Cotton Candy and Snow Cones anyone? The Summer Youth from THEARC and the Splash Park group met today in preparation for "Movie Tuesdays!", a fun-filled night of FREE movies, cotton candy and snacks, which will begin next Tuesday with the premiere of "Finding Nemo". Various kids from camps, programs, and extra-curricular activities will get to enjoy snacks and popcorn after viewing the movie.

Today the groups had fun prepping, learning, and eating. It's nice to enjoy an ice-cold snow cone on a hot day.

Here is a few pictures of the Concessions Sessions.

Everybody's learning how to make popcorn & snow cones...yum!
Cotton Candy Hot From the Machine

Ms. Kia is enjoying the fruits of her labor : )

The Concession stand is seen as a simple business. There is interaction with the customer (customer service); distribution of the product (purchasing), and earning captiol (gaining a dollar). This may seem like a simple business, but a lot values are gained.

The Beginning of a Beautiful Thing

2010-06-28T18:19:00.000-07:00

Learning, Dreaming, Building...Today marks the first day of six weeks of the THEARC's Summer Youth Program, sponsored by Capital One, William C. Smith and Co., and Verizon. About 15 teens, from different areas and backgrounds come together to put on a production of their own, and get to know the in's and out's of theater. I can tell these six weeks are going to be fun-filled, by the different personalities that I've seen today.

Mr. Johnny Sweet is the life of the party!!

Today the group "Learned" the dynamics of putting on a show, "Dreamed" about the aspects of the kind of show that we want to present, and in the upcoming weeks, the group will "Build" that dream.

During the learning process, we watched a previous production of "Do You Like Good Music," a musical discography of the days of Motown and the music of the late '60s and early '70s, and gathered ideas about costumes, make-up, lighting, and sound. After the viewing, the young producers of tomorrow broke into groups of their desired interests and brain-stormed about this years vision of "Do You Like Good Music", and took an extensive tour of THEARC.

After the day was over the group reflected about their future at THEARC and their masterpiece to-be.

Chris Page, one of the youth program members writes, "...I am enjoying myself. Being in the presence of new and interesting people for the first time is refreshing. What I learned today is that we are going to work hard and perform tedious tasks to ensure a successful and entertaining production. I look forward to all that I will experience in the next six weeks."

The program has already took effect on Ms. Dana Smith. She writes,

"What I want to get out of this program is to learn what I don't know and to expand what I do. My goal here is to teach others what I know and to find resources to help if I can't. Today I discovered different places of THEARC that I never knew existed. I was elated to see different parts of it. I expect that this program will teach me backstage work and also will teach me to be independent."

Today marks the beginning of a beautiful thing. Stay tuned to what tomorrow will bring. : )