Sheatre invites people young and old to form part of the vision of change we wish to create over five shared days together during March Break.
Climate change can be seen around us; what can we do about it?
Sheatre is offering two connected workshops to explore “what is possible?”.
Theatre, puppetry, costume, sound and motion picture will enliven stimulating ideas as the group invents and performs stories inspired by nature and conservation. The art, showcased during the Earth Day parade, April 22, will turn Owen Sound’s River District into a stage that celebrates human ingenuity in climate action.
Local youth and adults will collaborate with artists Joan Chandler, Kit Boulter, and Ron Schweitzer.
The “ACT FOR CLIMATE ” theatrical workshop, March 13- 17 (10-3 daily), will have participants creating characters, scenes and stories together. This is for ages 10 and up, “because any age can be a force of change for our community!” says Boulter. The “Digital Directors” film workshop is offered to ages 14 and up, and will document the theatrical explorations; this will start with a Zoom weekend March 11-12th (11-2 pm) and continue through March. Participants will learn the basics of creating with digital editing tools, and skills to hone narratives and perspectives while filming the theatre workshop. A screen and live performance will take place at the Harmony Centre at a later date. Workshops are free.
The project is produced by Sheatre, a community-engaged arts organization based in Grey-Bruce. With 38 years of experience, the company is noted for its impactful creative approaches, winning multiple awards (including YMCA Peace medallion, Owen Sound Cultural Award, Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General’s Victim Services Award of Distinction). Work is always done in partnership with topic specialists, in this case with Georgian Bluffs Climate Action Team, with support from the Community Foundation Grey Bruce.
Joan Chandler, Sheatre’s Artistic Director, has been a theatre facilitator, director, writer and producer for over four decades. Her work focuses on interactive productions about social issues, and plays that celebrate community and the creative spirit. She has led the collective creation of over 150 original plays in Canada, Europe and the USA.
Ron Schweitzer has a long history with giant puppetry. He has been involved in creating and leading various community theatre projects, workshops, parades, festivals and general spectacles of merriment. He currently lives in Owen Sound working as a luthier crafting musical instruments out of reclaimed materials.
Kit Boulter is an award-winning performer, poet, and presenter living in Georgian Bluffs. As a trans-nonbinary artist and mentor, they advocate for safe and kind spaces in art-making and development. Their many skills in the nuances of design, refinement and performance have made them an adept coordinator and facilitator of evolving and inclusive programming. They perform most often as their Drag alter-ego Qaptain online and onstage with a focus on style and spectacle
“Sheatre’s motto is Play for A Change,” says Chandler. “We believe in the power of theatre, of the arts, to change lives and contribute to a healthy, compassionate society. We’ve seen it. Our work sparks ideas and action, and broadens perceptions. Most of all, it’s fun!”
If you are a natural storyteller, a creative force, a playful spirit, you’re invited to come and play. Fill your March Break with magic and enliven Earth Day. Register online or email engage@sheatre.com.
source: media release
