Today Tracy, Jesse, Jonathan, Sofia, Maddie, and Juan participated in a musical improv on campus. They loved it and returned all energetic. Tracy and Juan went to see "Flawless" about breakdancing. After lunch we had our farewell ceremony with slides of our visits in Scotland and where directors received an award for their hard work. Everyone in the room was so excited.
In the afternoon, we went to town and saw Spent, a satirical comedy about investors who lost all their money. It was funny. Afterwards, some students walked around for the last time. Mr. Burt and I went to see an Australian comedian who was actually funny.
Students dressed up for our farewell dinner above a local pub. The food was terrific. They're getting so much better eating other types of food. We no longer have to say: "You can't eat at Subway!" Another teacher from a school came over to Mr. Burt and told him how she had loved his play and how talented the kids were. The program director also stopped him earlier today to say the same. In the elevator in my dorm, a student told me our play was her favorite. Aren't we lucky?
I asked the students during dinner what stood out for them about Scotland: men in their kilts; meeting a girl; cried twice during plays; my dorm view of the golf course; walking up the mountain; crying when hearing the bagpipes; and walking on top of St. Paul's Cathedral in London. When asked what stands out about Scotland, they said: green, cobble stone, peaceful, no muggers/pick pockets, cows, beautiful, energetic, and articstic.
My time is up and the place is closing down. I will continue and finish the blog when I return home.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Scotland, Day 8 and 9
Before I forget. When I get back to California (after a few days of rest), I plan to edit the entire blog. Next I'll print it, so students can keep a copy for their pictures. This will help them remember where we went a few years down the road.
For the past two days, we've been on-the-go constantly. After our final performance yesterday, with a small audience, we felt so relieved. Our Scottish friends, Charles, Nancy, Karen, and Jacques came and loved it. Charles (86 years old) marveld at the topics that students would choose to write about. He felt it was very sophisticated. He was especially impressed by their knowledge of Hitler, Mother Teresa, and Stalin, and how they were used in this setting. We had a little mishap before the performance ( as student fell), so we worried about her, but she's fine. I felt sad to see it end but happy not to worry about it any more. Bringing all the customes and small props with us every time became overwhelming at times. I'm so proud of our Lobo actors. Such professionals.
After returning to our dorms with our costumes, some relaxed and others went out. We left again at 5:30 PM to go see a high school performance: The Women in Lockerbee. It was a difficult play to do but they did it. Then we walked for 20 minutes to the Jolly Ristorante for our dinner. All eleven of us sat together in a small Italian restaurant. We had a great meal: salad or soup; pasta, chicken, pizza, or fish; ice cream. Of course, they ate well as they were starving. We then rushed to find taxis for the students who were going to see Good Death, the five-star play Mr. Burt and I had seen. Unfortunately, not all of them could get it in. I wish you had seen them when we put them in the cabs and made them pay this time! Mr. Burt and I walked to the same area our students were and saw What must go up..., where a mother, her 14 year old son, and her past lover camp and where her son meets his father for the first time.
Today we left at 9 AM to go sighseeing all day (by coach). We toured Sterling Castle, shopped and ate lunch in a small village, saw several lakes and lodges. It was a day of leisure since we could just sit back and enjoy without having to plan anything. I have pictures of our students getting excited about meeting the Scottish cows (mom and dad) and their son. They could feed them vegetables.
Tonight they're going to shows (different ones) and some are going in the dungeons for the ghost show. They've been waiting for the ghosts all week! With all their shopping, I'm a little worried about their packing tomorrow and the weight. Today one bought a great jacket for 5£; another bought a suit for £9 - all at the thrift store!
Tomorrow we have our closing ceremony. We plan to take them to the Cadanian play Spent, a satire/comedy about two financial investors who lost everything in 2008 and committed suicide. It involves many famous financial institutions around the world. We then go to our celebration dinner and home to pack. I don't think I'll have any time to write till I get home. I'll see.
I want to thank you for your kind comments about the blog. I share them with the students and Mr. Burt. I have enjoyed every bit of this trip and feel so honored to come along. It has been an absolute joy to watch our Lobos mature here; they're becoming independent which is a good sign in their development.
For the past two days, we've been on-the-go constantly. After our final performance yesterday, with a small audience, we felt so relieved. Our Scottish friends, Charles, Nancy, Karen, and Jacques came and loved it. Charles (86 years old) marveld at the topics that students would choose to write about. He felt it was very sophisticated. He was especially impressed by their knowledge of Hitler, Mother Teresa, and Stalin, and how they were used in this setting. We had a little mishap before the performance ( as student fell), so we worried about her, but she's fine. I felt sad to see it end but happy not to worry about it any more. Bringing all the customes and small props with us every time became overwhelming at times. I'm so proud of our Lobo actors. Such professionals.
After returning to our dorms with our costumes, some relaxed and others went out. We left again at 5:30 PM to go see a high school performance: The Women in Lockerbee. It was a difficult play to do but they did it. Then we walked for 20 minutes to the Jolly Ristorante for our dinner. All eleven of us sat together in a small Italian restaurant. We had a great meal: salad or soup; pasta, chicken, pizza, or fish; ice cream. Of course, they ate well as they were starving. We then rushed to find taxis for the students who were going to see Good Death, the five-star play Mr. Burt and I had seen. Unfortunately, not all of them could get it in. I wish you had seen them when we put them in the cabs and made them pay this time! Mr. Burt and I walked to the same area our students were and saw What must go up..., where a mother, her 14 year old son, and her past lover camp and where her son meets his father for the first time.
Today we left at 9 AM to go sighseeing all day (by coach). We toured Sterling Castle, shopped and ate lunch in a small village, saw several lakes and lodges. It was a day of leisure since we could just sit back and enjoy without having to plan anything. I have pictures of our students getting excited about meeting the Scottish cows (mom and dad) and their son. They could feed them vegetables.
Tonight they're going to shows (different ones) and some are going in the dungeons for the ghost show. They've been waiting for the ghosts all week! With all their shopping, I'm a little worried about their packing tomorrow and the weight. Today one bought a great jacket for 5£; another bought a suit for £9 - all at the thrift store!
Tomorrow we have our closing ceremony. We plan to take them to the Cadanian play Spent, a satire/comedy about two financial investors who lost everything in 2008 and committed suicide. It involves many famous financial institutions around the world. We then go to our celebration dinner and home to pack. I don't think I'll have any time to write till I get home. I'll see.
I want to thank you for your kind comments about the blog. I share them with the students and Mr. Burt. I have enjoyed every bit of this trip and feel so honored to come along. It has been an absolute joy to watch our Lobos mature here; they're becoming independent which is a good sign in their development.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Scotland, Day 7
We have learned how other schools are able to come to the Fringe. Students in one school in Massachusetts raised $1,000 each and had to pay the remaining $5,500 themselves; another school had the students who could pay the entire amount go. Others raised $60,000 for 25 students and they had to pay the remainder themselves. Needless to say, when our Lobos said they raised $75,000 and had to pay $1,000 each, others had a surprised look on their faces. That's when our Lobos shared about their terrific sponsors in Santa Rosa. We are so fortunate to have people value our students' work and to have worked so hard to get them to go. It has paid off big time.
"The house is now opened!" The theater became quiet as I opened the doors to our customers waiting in line. When I looked out at all the faces in line, my heart skipped a beat. First entered an older gentleman with white hair and white beard, not a smile on his face. He looked like a critic, but who knows? Next came teachers from all over as well as many students. At last minute, two people ran to make it on time. The music had started. I tiptoed to my chair and felt the excitement in the air. We almost had a full house!
The audience laughed when God talked, especially when she mentioned she is an atheist. Of course, the devil, in her sexy ways, enticed the teens in the audience. As the plays progressed, I observed the faces of the audience. When Barbie doll entered the stage, reaction of small recognition and connection was heard; fascination was also felt when GIJoe appeared. The little girld jumped all over the stage reminding us of our excitement of being a little girl trying to understand the world. The wind-up doll held the audience's attention as she walked stiffly across the stage. The last doll danced across the stage while teens observed her with interest. It was a moment to remember. Of course, when Hitler/Mother Theresa appeared on stage and he/she gave Julia her gold star, we heard gasps from students. I loved watching the students as they understood the black comedy and irony and their history. At the end, everyone clapped enthusiastically and told us how they had loved it. Our critic sat stone-faced so who knows what he was thinking? Andy Paris, director from the Tectonic Theater Project and one of the original developer of the Laramie Project told Mr. Burt how impressed he was. A staff member from American High School Theatre Festival talked to both Mr. Burt and me. He marveled at the play and became quite enthusiastic when he learned each was written by a student. We left on a "high."
When we returned to our coach to return to the university, the entire bus load of teachers and students clapped loudly and shared their awe over the play. While driving, the Massachussetts students were so impressed with Andrea's play Happiness (dolls) and we all reveled in their enthusiasm for the plays. We now hope we can repeat our performance this afternoon, our final production.
Just a little note about the importance of tea. Our Lobos mentioned how the young mothers/fathers with their children go for tea to communicate with each other during the day. They mentioned that's what we should do in the US. Of course, our girls now have tea in their rooms (we have a pot that boils water and are given coffee and tea as well). They often meet in their rooms and have a pot of tea. They're adopting a new tradition in their lives. Isn't that just wonderful?
In the evening, we went to different plays. Tracy and Andrea decided to go souvenir shoppin. Jonathan, Jesse (finally feels better), Juan, Patty and Jazmin saw "Barry and Stuart" (magic/comedy show). Juan was asked to come on stage to put tape on the performer's face; Jonathan was asked to put handcuffs on someone. Sofia and Madelaine went to see The American Family, the one we saw the night before. It earned four stars. Mr. Burt and I saw Good Death,a collaboration between Westgern Michigan University and Tectonic Theater Project. It questioned the right to die and followed the work of Dr. Jack Kevorkian (Dr. Death). It received a five star rating. We all met on the bus home that night - surprise! Full of excitement.
"The house is now opened!" The theater became quiet as I opened the doors to our customers waiting in line. When I looked out at all the faces in line, my heart skipped a beat. First entered an older gentleman with white hair and white beard, not a smile on his face. He looked like a critic, but who knows? Next came teachers from all over as well as many students. At last minute, two people ran to make it on time. The music had started. I tiptoed to my chair and felt the excitement in the air. We almost had a full house!
The audience laughed when God talked, especially when she mentioned she is an atheist. Of course, the devil, in her sexy ways, enticed the teens in the audience. As the plays progressed, I observed the faces of the audience. When Barbie doll entered the stage, reaction of small recognition and connection was heard; fascination was also felt when GIJoe appeared. The little girld jumped all over the stage reminding us of our excitement of being a little girl trying to understand the world. The wind-up doll held the audience's attention as she walked stiffly across the stage. The last doll danced across the stage while teens observed her with interest. It was a moment to remember. Of course, when Hitler/Mother Theresa appeared on stage and he/she gave Julia her gold star, we heard gasps from students. I loved watching the students as they understood the black comedy and irony and their history. At the end, everyone clapped enthusiastically and told us how they had loved it. Our critic sat stone-faced so who knows what he was thinking? Andy Paris, director from the Tectonic Theater Project and one of the original developer of the Laramie Project told Mr. Burt how impressed he was. A staff member from American High School Theatre Festival talked to both Mr. Burt and me. He marveled at the play and became quite enthusiastic when he learned each was written by a student. We left on a "high."
When we returned to our coach to return to the university, the entire bus load of teachers and students clapped loudly and shared their awe over the play. While driving, the Massachussetts students were so impressed with Andrea's play Happiness (dolls) and we all reveled in their enthusiasm for the plays. We now hope we can repeat our performance this afternoon, our final production.
Just a little note about the importance of tea. Our Lobos mentioned how the young mothers/fathers with their children go for tea to communicate with each other during the day. They mentioned that's what we should do in the US. Of course, our girls now have tea in their rooms (we have a pot that boils water and are given coffee and tea as well). They often meet in their rooms and have a pot of tea. They're adopting a new tradition in their lives. Isn't that just wonderful?
In the evening, we went to different plays. Tracy and Andrea decided to go souvenir shoppin. Jonathan, Jesse (finally feels better), Juan, Patty and Jazmin saw "Barry and Stuart" (magic/comedy show). Juan was asked to come on stage to put tape on the performer's face; Jonathan was asked to put handcuffs on someone. Sofia and Madelaine went to see The American Family, the one we saw the night before. It earned four stars. Mr. Burt and I saw Good Death,a collaboration between Westgern Michigan University and Tectonic Theater Project. It questioned the right to die and followed the work of Dr. Jack Kevorkian (Dr. Death). It received a five star rating. We all met on the bus home that night - surprise! Full of excitement.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Scotland, Day 6 (yes, there are two Day 4s!)
Today we took our time in the morning and left at 2:30 to go to our second performance. We hopped on the bus, actors dressed in their costumes and covered with ponchos so they wouldn't get wet. We were in high spirits as we knew some people would attend this performance. Sure enough! In walked Aurora and her husband (from our high tea). They had come to support us. The producer and her main character from the Jewish children's play came as well. She's so delightful. Other teachers and students arrived as well.
During the performance, two young women laughed a lot, really understanding the plays. Our new-found friends were engaged as well as was the rest of the audience. Afterward, Aurora told me how clever the plays were and how much she'd enjoyed them. The producer told Mr. Burt how impressed she was with the students' abilities to change roles so fast and stay in character. She also loved it. Some of the students who observed also shared their positive comments.
When we returned tot he dorms, some of the kids stayed on campus to rest and four girls went to a short play (comedian). In the evening we went to The Illiad, The Odyssey, and All of Greek Mythology in 99 minutes or Less" which didn't end till after midnight. We were tired. It was a fast-paced play; for those who remember their Greek mythology, it was easier to follow.
This morning we saw the best school play so far: Hide and Seek. Actors wore masks (terrifically designed)and mimed their short common events. It went fast, acted out smoothly, and, at the same, comically. Everyone in the theater was totally engaged. Before the play, we had 45 minutes, so most of us had tea and dessert. They're really getting the hang of enjoying tea.
We leave at 4 PM for our third performance. We hope it will go well. The pace is real fast.
During the performance, two young women laughed a lot, really understanding the plays. Our new-found friends were engaged as well as was the rest of the audience. Afterward, Aurora told me how clever the plays were and how much she'd enjoyed them. The producer told Mr. Burt how impressed she was with the students' abilities to change roles so fast and stay in character. She also loved it. Some of the students who observed also shared their positive comments.
When we returned tot he dorms, some of the kids stayed on campus to rest and four girls went to a short play (comedian). In the evening we went to The Illiad, The Odyssey, and All of Greek Mythology in 99 minutes or Less" which didn't end till after midnight. We were tired. It was a fast-paced play; for those who remember their Greek mythology, it was easier to follow.
This morning we saw the best school play so far: Hide and Seek. Actors wore masks (terrifically designed)and mimed their short common events. It went fast, acted out smoothly, and, at the same, comically. Everyone in the theater was totally engaged. Before the play, we had 45 minutes, so most of us had tea and dessert. They're really getting the hang of enjoying tea.
We leave at 4 PM for our third performance. We hope it will go well. The pace is real fast.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Scotland, Day 4
This was a very busy day, so we're resting this morning.
In the morning we saw Far, a short play written by the drama teacher and performed by students from southern California. It was unique. Later in the day, our students had to dress up and bring costumes to the Royal Mile as they had to perform on a small stage on the Mile. It informs the public what we have to offer and invites more people to come see our play. It's fascinating. Before the 20 min.performance, students, dressed in their costumes, walked around in character and talked to the people on the streets. They handed out our cards. Andrea walked around like a wind-up soldier; later she had trouble bending her knees! Hitler/MotherTheresa along with the Pope made their rounds as well (I could hear them with their voices in full swing and in character). Sofia as God stood on a small platform and invited people into her world. Juan walked around like a toy soldier and handed out cards. Our ballet dancer (Patty) and the devil(Jazmin) enticed others along the Mile. Our Jewish girl (Tracy) and little girl (Maddie) continued in their timid and "little girl" voices as well. We almost ran out of cards before our performance. Many people on the street took pictures of them. They finally performed their shortened version of the play. People stopped, observed, became engaged. Little kids were in front of the stage as the "dolls" walked around. It was a success. We were also so touched by Nancy, Karen, and Jacques's attendance to support us. (high tea hosts)
Afterwards, we went to another play, Terezin, Children of the Holocaust, which was so moving and based on a true experience. It involved six children in the days before their deportation to Ausschwitz Concentration Camp. Only one of the six survived. Beautiful acting. Our students were touched by it and wondered how it would feel if the actors of this play would come to our play and see Hitler and the treatment of the Jewish girl.
Later after dinner, we went to another play, The American Family, based on college students' real lives. Students from West Washington University and Bucknell University met a year ago, talked about their own experiences, and emailed/talked throughout the year. They met four days before their first performance and put it all together. It was fast-paced, engaging, thought-provoking, and well-acted. We could all relate. I wish you had seen the conversation that it inspired afterwards. We talked about our own family experiences and shared special moments. What constitutes an American family? Best of all, our students talked to the actors from the play. We hope they will come to our play as well. This was a special occasion for Mr. Burt as he knew some of the people in charge.
Today students are doing laundry, fixing and ironing their costumes for their second performance this afternoon. Let's hope it goes well.
In the morning we saw Far, a short play written by the drama teacher and performed by students from southern California. It was unique. Later in the day, our students had to dress up and bring costumes to the Royal Mile as they had to perform on a small stage on the Mile. It informs the public what we have to offer and invites more people to come see our play. It's fascinating. Before the 20 min.performance, students, dressed in their costumes, walked around in character and talked to the people on the streets. They handed out our cards. Andrea walked around like a wind-up soldier; later she had trouble bending her knees! Hitler/MotherTheresa along with the Pope made their rounds as well (I could hear them with their voices in full swing and in character). Sofia as God stood on a small platform and invited people into her world. Juan walked around like a toy soldier and handed out cards. Our ballet dancer (Patty) and the devil(Jazmin) enticed others along the Mile. Our Jewish girl (Tracy) and little girl (Maddie) continued in their timid and "little girl" voices as well. We almost ran out of cards before our performance. Many people on the street took pictures of them. They finally performed their shortened version of the play. People stopped, observed, became engaged. Little kids were in front of the stage as the "dolls" walked around. It was a success. We were also so touched by Nancy, Karen, and Jacques's attendance to support us. (high tea hosts)
Afterwards, we went to another play, Terezin, Children of the Holocaust, which was so moving and based on a true experience. It involved six children in the days before their deportation to Ausschwitz Concentration Camp. Only one of the six survived. Beautiful acting. Our students were touched by it and wondered how it would feel if the actors of this play would come to our play and see Hitler and the treatment of the Jewish girl.
Later after dinner, we went to another play, The American Family, based on college students' real lives. Students from West Washington University and Bucknell University met a year ago, talked about their own experiences, and emailed/talked throughout the year. They met four days before their first performance and put it all together. It was fast-paced, engaging, thought-provoking, and well-acted. We could all relate. I wish you had seen the conversation that it inspired afterwards. We talked about our own family experiences and shared special moments. What constitutes an American family? Best of all, our students talked to the actors from the play. We hope they will come to our play as well. This was a special occasion for Mr. Burt as he knew some of the people in charge.
Today students are doing laundry, fixing and ironing their costumes for their second performance this afternoon. Let's hope it goes well.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Scotland, Day 4
WE DID IT! We were very pleased with our performance. We had little time to set up, but we were ready when the time came. They remembered their lines and reveled in their first performance in Scotland. Everyone was so relieved afterwards.
When we returned to our dorms, we relaxed a little and prepared to go to Charles and Nancy's home for high tea. We left early for you can't be late for tea. We strolled down streets, took pictures in front of the telephone booths, explored art galleries, and talked about how to drink tea. We knocked on the door of Charles and Nancy, waited expectantly for the door to open to a British home. They welcomed us with open arms and introduced us to their neighbors who live part of the year in Texas and part of the year in Edinburgh. Their daughter Karen and her partner Jacques, who both live in France, were also there to meet us. Another neighbor, a woman from the American Embassy, had also been invited but ended up not coming. Another neighbor of theirs came as well, one who spoke French and Spanish. Charles and Nancy, who just celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, had indeed put a lot of thought and effort into making our visit as pleasant as possible.
As we entered the foyer with white and black tiled flloor and high ceiling painted in a a fancy design, we knew we had come to another world - one with a history and one of upper-middle class. At first we sat in the living room, filled by floor to ceiling books, surrounded by paintings and arts from the family history and experiences. It was like sitting in a museum learning first-hand the importance of our personal and historical history. Our students sat in awe as they listened to Nancy's explanation of where we could drink our tea, either in her garden (depending on the weather) or the downstairs dining room. An entire diningroom table was covered with fine china teacups and saucers and small desserts. Our students took their cup of tea with desserts outside to the garden and drank, ate, and visited as seasoned Brits! It was a Kokak moment. Later they got a tour of the 18th century house. It was an event to remember for a long time. Our hosts were so excited and plan to come to our play on Friday.
We hurried home to change into warm clothing as we were going to the Military Tatto, a two-hour show with bagpipes, military bands, fireworks, etc. We took taxis to get there on time, stood in line that curved up to the stadium adjacent to the castle along with 10,000 other people. We had wonderful seats. Right at 9 PM, the Scottish bagpipe clans entered with full force. We were hooked. Bands from Germany, Netherlands, Brazil performed as well. Along the performance were fireworks, graphics on the castle walls to go with the music. It was awesome and our actors loved every moment.
It was a late night, so we were happily tired. My time is up.
When we returned to our dorms, we relaxed a little and prepared to go to Charles and Nancy's home for high tea. We left early for you can't be late for tea. We strolled down streets, took pictures in front of the telephone booths, explored art galleries, and talked about how to drink tea. We knocked on the door of Charles and Nancy, waited expectantly for the door to open to a British home. They welcomed us with open arms and introduced us to their neighbors who live part of the year in Texas and part of the year in Edinburgh. Their daughter Karen and her partner Jacques, who both live in France, were also there to meet us. Another neighbor, a woman from the American Embassy, had also been invited but ended up not coming. Another neighbor of theirs came as well, one who spoke French and Spanish. Charles and Nancy, who just celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, had indeed put a lot of thought and effort into making our visit as pleasant as possible.
As we entered the foyer with white and black tiled flloor and high ceiling painted in a a fancy design, we knew we had come to another world - one with a history and one of upper-middle class. At first we sat in the living room, filled by floor to ceiling books, surrounded by paintings and arts from the family history and experiences. It was like sitting in a museum learning first-hand the importance of our personal and historical history. Our students sat in awe as they listened to Nancy's explanation of where we could drink our tea, either in her garden (depending on the weather) or the downstairs dining room. An entire diningroom table was covered with fine china teacups and saucers and small desserts. Our students took their cup of tea with desserts outside to the garden and drank, ate, and visited as seasoned Brits! It was a Kokak moment. Later they got a tour of the 18th century house. It was an event to remember for a long time. Our hosts were so excited and plan to come to our play on Friday.
We hurried home to change into warm clothing as we were going to the Military Tatto, a two-hour show with bagpipes, military bands, fireworks, etc. We took taxis to get there on time, stood in line that curved up to the stadium adjacent to the castle along with 10,000 other people. We had wonderful seats. Right at 9 PM, the Scottish bagpipe clans entered with full force. We were hooked. Bands from Germany, Netherlands, Brazil performed as well. Along the performance were fireworks, graphics on the castle walls to go with the music. It was awesome and our actors loved every moment.
It was a late night, so we were happily tired. My time is up.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Scotland, Day 3
I'm actually writing early as we will be very late the next two days and I'm not sure I'll be able to get to a computer.
We went to the Royal Mile where all the action is in Edinburgh. We saw the one hour play, Show Me the World by the Bridge Theatre Company. It was written by Simon Vinnicombe who won the Pearson Bursary Award in 2010. We walked down several narrow streets and stopped at the Underbelly where we were to see the play. As we entered the establishment, we noticed newspapers glued to the walls. We had to climb narrow stairs to the small theatre that held 50 people. It was so cozy. I wish you had observed the students' faces as they got involved in the play. They were totally engaged in the excellent production of topics we don't talk about in the world; many said, "It is real." We learned about the characters' dilemmas about their relationships, jobs, love, education, and friendship through music, singing, Facebook entries, slides, and iphones. It was like watching our young people on stage facing their life decisions.
Soon we rehearse again and hopefully I'll remember my small part in it!! After dinner we will go to a dance and participate and learn Scottish dancing. I can't wait. Tomorrow is the big day: we perform for the first time.
Our Lobos now remember to bring their rain gear and their bus tickets. We don't have to remind them anymore. They're adjusting to the British way of life.
We went to the Royal Mile where all the action is in Edinburgh. We saw the one hour play, Show Me the World by the Bridge Theatre Company. It was written by Simon Vinnicombe who won the Pearson Bursary Award in 2010. We walked down several narrow streets and stopped at the Underbelly where we were to see the play. As we entered the establishment, we noticed newspapers glued to the walls. We had to climb narrow stairs to the small theatre that held 50 people. It was so cozy. I wish you had observed the students' faces as they got involved in the play. They were totally engaged in the excellent production of topics we don't talk about in the world; many said, "It is real." We learned about the characters' dilemmas about their relationships, jobs, love, education, and friendship through music, singing, Facebook entries, slides, and iphones. It was like watching our young people on stage facing their life decisions.
Soon we rehearse again and hopefully I'll remember my small part in it!! After dinner we will go to a dance and participate and learn Scottish dancing. I can't wait. Tomorrow is the big day: we perform for the first time.
Our Lobos now remember to bring their rain gear and their bus tickets. We don't have to remind them anymore. They're adjusting to the British way of life.
Scotland - Day 2
First of all, I want to apologize if I make a spelling error, but I'm on a timer - $3.75 for 30 min. The keyboard is different, so I goof at times. Secondly, I want to assure parents that our kids are safe. Every person here must wear a blacelet with a phone number to call at any time. We just go into a store and they'll call for us. We can't get on busses without it along with our bus pass. They're extremely careful and strict.
Yesterday we were introduced to our theatre where we'll perform for the first time tomorrow. It's so much smaller and more primitive than ours at Elsie Allen. I marveled at the technical rehearsal over the kids and how they just knew what to do. Along with the tech supervisors, they got on the ladder to re-adjust the lights to go with our play; students placed props around the stage and tagged the floor with tape; Jonathan and Juan were learning how to run the equipment (sounds, lights, etc.) which is not in a separate room but with the audience. They perfected this over the next two hours and actually ran out of time. We didn't finish! Coming on and off the stage is tricky as it is small and all curtained off. I now have a job as well. I'm the house manager and will have to inform the actors when the play starts. I open doors, collect ticket stubs, and open the back door at the end of the performance. I had to be instructed what to do in case of a fire, a person fainting, or having a heart attack. Now I feel extremely important and hope I don't mess up my little part of this endeavor.
Later in the day we then rehearsed the entire play for more than two hours. Since it was a big room, they arranged it like the state, so I was priviledged to see how fast they changed their costumes. The play ran one hour and five minutes. Their confidence has improved since they've been here. I think the atmosphere of the place reflects they're talented teens performing here. Since Jonathan and Juan have to use the Ipod for the music and sounds, Jonathan later fixed it to improve the technical side during the performance tomorrow. Every time I see the performance, I notice changes in their demeanor. This time a few of our actors added more zest to their character (they're getting into it full blast). As always, Rob reviewed points to improve while they wrote down what they must remember.
Later that night we returned to the Royal Mile where four of the kids went to see the play Shhhh, a musical production by college kids. It apparently was terrible. Others shopped. We will now go to the dungeons later and experience ghosts as they found a place for that.
Time is up. They continue to impress me.
Yesterday we were introduced to our theatre where we'll perform for the first time tomorrow. It's so much smaller and more primitive than ours at Elsie Allen. I marveled at the technical rehearsal over the kids and how they just knew what to do. Along with the tech supervisors, they got on the ladder to re-adjust the lights to go with our play; students placed props around the stage and tagged the floor with tape; Jonathan and Juan were learning how to run the equipment (sounds, lights, etc.) which is not in a separate room but with the audience. They perfected this over the next two hours and actually ran out of time. We didn't finish! Coming on and off the stage is tricky as it is small and all curtained off. I now have a job as well. I'm the house manager and will have to inform the actors when the play starts. I open doors, collect ticket stubs, and open the back door at the end of the performance. I had to be instructed what to do in case of a fire, a person fainting, or having a heart attack. Now I feel extremely important and hope I don't mess up my little part of this endeavor.
Later in the day we then rehearsed the entire play for more than two hours. Since it was a big room, they arranged it like the state, so I was priviledged to see how fast they changed their costumes. The play ran one hour and five minutes. Their confidence has improved since they've been here. I think the atmosphere of the place reflects they're talented teens performing here. Since Jonathan and Juan have to use the Ipod for the music and sounds, Jonathan later fixed it to improve the technical side during the performance tomorrow. Every time I see the performance, I notice changes in their demeanor. This time a few of our actors added more zest to their character (they're getting into it full blast). As always, Rob reviewed points to improve while they wrote down what they must remember.
Later that night we returned to the Royal Mile where four of the kids went to see the play Shhhh, a musical production by college kids. It apparently was terrible. Others shopped. We will now go to the dungeons later and experience ghosts as they found a place for that.
Time is up. They continue to impress me.
Friday, August 5, 2011
London and Edinburgh
Sorry that I only wrote two lines a few days ago, but my long sharing of our first day wouldn't post. I was out of time and it was late; thus, such few words.
\I must say that Rob and I have been so lucky to be with our students. Their amazement, their excitement, their honesty, their thoughtfulness and helpfulness - these are the qualities that have made us so proud to be traveling with our Lobos.
London was a whirlwind. After our flight, we toured London for more than four hours: Big Ben, The Docks, Gardens, Trafalgar Square, etc. We finally checked in to our B&B and got ready for the Globe. We walked for 5 minutes and here was the replica of The Globe - as primitive as in Shakespeare's times. The students were the groundlings (they stood right before the stage as in the old times) and cheered as the funny parts of As You Like It. Rob and I sat in side seats and couldn't see much except for our kids. At intermission, only two students remained to see the play. The others were too tired and wanted to go to bed. They all loved it but Sophia and Maddia saw the entire production and absolutely loved every bit of it.
The next day we toured Tower of London where they watched in awe the royal jewels. We walked through the Middle Age palace, towers where prisoners had been tortured for a long time - all in the rain. Were they wet! Now they will bring their rain gear in the future!! We took a boat on Thames River to St. Paul's Cathedral, a place of service built 1400 years ago. Then we went to the pub and ate English food. We had a blast, many soaking wet and trying to dry their shoes and clothes in the bathroom dryers!! They loved the food. Finally we went to Camden Market where they shopped and got good deals. It's a cultural diverse market full of people from around the world. We rushed back (after taking the tube and a double-decker bus) to change for our theater performance of War Horse. It was a marvelous play with puppeteered horses on stage. The audience clapped for a long time and our Lobos could talk of nothing else afterwards.
Today we got up at 4 AM to take the train and ride to Scotland. We met other Fringe Festival participants. Once in Edingburg we toured the city and walked part of the famous Mile where entertainers were everywhere. Our Lobos were hooked. It was a world of drama in every way. Soon they will advertise their plays to entice people to come see their play. They're already talking about how they're going to do this. They checked into their dorm, a wonderful room, and they were busy organizing their "home" for the next 8 days. I loved watching them. Tonight some are exploring the campus while others are in their room talking and relaxing. I will check on the "California girls", as they call them here, at 11 PM to make sure they're ready for the night
My time is up.
\I must say that Rob and I have been so lucky to be with our students. Their amazement, their excitement, their honesty, their thoughtfulness and helpfulness - these are the qualities that have made us so proud to be traveling with our Lobos.
London was a whirlwind. After our flight, we toured London for more than four hours: Big Ben, The Docks, Gardens, Trafalgar Square, etc. We finally checked in to our B&B and got ready for the Globe. We walked for 5 minutes and here was the replica of The Globe - as primitive as in Shakespeare's times. The students were the groundlings (they stood right before the stage as in the old times) and cheered as the funny parts of As You Like It. Rob and I sat in side seats and couldn't see much except for our kids. At intermission, only two students remained to see the play. The others were too tired and wanted to go to bed. They all loved it but Sophia and Maddia saw the entire production and absolutely loved every bit of it.
The next day we toured Tower of London where they watched in awe the royal jewels. We walked through the Middle Age palace, towers where prisoners had been tortured for a long time - all in the rain. Were they wet! Now they will bring their rain gear in the future!! We took a boat on Thames River to St. Paul's Cathedral, a place of service built 1400 years ago. Then we went to the pub and ate English food. We had a blast, many soaking wet and trying to dry their shoes and clothes in the bathroom dryers!! They loved the food. Finally we went to Camden Market where they shopped and got good deals. It's a cultural diverse market full of people from around the world. We rushed back (after taking the tube and a double-decker bus) to change for our theater performance of War Horse. It was a marvelous play with puppeteered horses on stage. The audience clapped for a long time and our Lobos could talk of nothing else afterwards.
Today we got up at 4 AM to take the train and ride to Scotland. We met other Fringe Festival participants. Once in Edingburg we toured the city and walked part of the famous Mile where entertainers were everywhere. Our Lobos were hooked. It was a world of drama in every way. Soon they will advertise their plays to entice people to come see their play. They're already talking about how they're going to do this. They checked into their dorm, a wonderful room, and they were busy organizing their "home" for the next 8 days. I loved watching them. Tonight some are exploring the campus while others are in their room talking and relaxing. I will check on the "California girls", as they call them here, at 11 PM to make sure they're ready for the night
My time is up.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
LONDON: Safe and tired
We've had a fabulous time so far. We loved the Globe Theater and enjoyed touring London most of the day. We're exhausted but are doing fine.
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