Residencies
PRESENTED AS THE REVELS ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE
First, a tale:
On the day he arrived to do his first residency over 5 years ago, David had no idea what he was going to do, but he knew how he was going to do it. Sounds like the beginning to a bad novel but it’s actually the story of a very successful residency concept. David proceeded on a tour of the school, listening to teachers’ description of their curriculums and observing what was on the walls of each classroom. Within an hour he had the makings of show that would involve 350 elementary school children and, just as important, their teachers.
Building on that first experience, David now sits down with the teachers beforehand to discuss what they would like to accomplish in a residency. In other words, how can this residency add an important dimension to the teaching that takes place in the classroom? Today, with his “Framework for a Residency,” David fashions programs that derive from the classroom walls and out of the curriculum notes, culminating in an all-hands mega performance that includes student-written recitations, songs, art projects and dance.
David’s residencies are enthusiastically received by students, and just as inspiring for their teachers.
“David’s work with us culminated in an excitingly rich student performance. The show featured what students had learned throughout the residency and included many connections to their curricular studies in core academic areas. Debriefing at the staff level revealed teacher excitement about having such rich extensions and enhancement of authentic and meaningful student learning in writing, social studies, science, music, movement, art and social skill building. Students voiced pride and enthusiasm for the fun of being in a show and learning to perform. Many parents commented on the incredible quality of the show.”
