Residencies

Artist: Shakespeare-in-the-Schools

Artists Residencies and Pre- and Post-Performance Workshops are essential components of Shakespeare-in-the-School's (SITS) mission. Whether during a single workshop or an extended residency, we always aim to empower, and challenge.

The “classics” conjures up images of old books, stuffy language, and boredom for many students. “Adapting the Classics” invites students to delve into the great masterpieces of literature to make their own discoveries and conclusions. Using Brown University’s ArtsLiteracy Project (www.artslit.org) as a model, Shakespeare-in-the-Schools’ Teaching Artists lead students through the process of exploring and dramatizing classics using writing exercises, improvisation, creative drama, and text analysis and comprehension strategies. The ArtsLiteracy process makes classical works relevant to today’s students. Shakespeare-in-the-Schools' "Adapting the Classics" residency enhances students’ literacy development through creativity and drama techniques around challenging texts such as William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, Amy Tan’s The Joy Luck Club or any work of literature from the school curriculum. Residencies typically consist of 6-12 sessions based on a text chosen from the school curriculum. They are preceded by joint planning meetings where the teaching team creates the unit by exploring the text and themes.

“Students were able to visually and kinesthetically connect to Hamlet in a way different from discussion. Sam Turich, our teaching artist, did an absolutely wonderful job with the students and connecting with them!”
- Katie O’Lare, Trinity High School

Artist: Jennie Stephens

Jennie Stephens combines the exciting world of children's literature with visual art in this fun-filled residency. Each session brings a new theme, book, and hands-on art-making exploration. From picture books to poetry, this program explores the possibilities and connections between literacy and art in themes such as Rhythm/Sound, Feelings, the Ocean, Imaginary Animals, and Gardens. Each theme will have a list of 5-10 age appropriate books from which to choose. Using a variety of art materials and techniques, children and teachers will discover new ways to bring learning to life!

Artist: Joann Kielar

In Art-Infusion K-2, visual artist/puppeteer Joann Kielar designs developmentally appropriate projects to enhance and reinforce curriculum objectives. Joann has been trained in techniques of arts integration through the Wolftrap Institute and enjoys collaborating with teachers to create one-of-a-kind experiences related to classroom standards and objectives.  She holds an MFA from the University of Pennsylvania and has worked for many years in classrooms throughout the Pittsburgh area.

Artist: Tom Breiding

Tom Breiding will help students to write their own historically accurate folk songs within the structure of verse, chorus, and bridge, tailoring historical connections for your school's specific needs. Pointing out several research strategies that he has used for his own work, Tom will asssign students to select an historical event or character about which they would like to write, list important facts from their research, and then assist them in constructing sound lyrics to be performed with traditional or original folk melodies. With his voice and instruments, he will give all students the opportunity to share their work, including those with little or no musical background. He can also engage students in open conversation about a wide range of industry topics that include: various approaches to the songwriting process, studio engineering, production, innovative recording techniques, tracking and editing on ProTools software, press and radio promotion, touring strategies, and performance techniques.