Lettie

June 17-July 13, 2023

Join us for a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the rehearsal process for this summer's production of Lettie, directed by Abigail Adams.

In this "extraordinary portrait of second chances amid harsh realities," (Chicago Sun-Times) Lettie is newly released from prison and eager to regain custody of the teenage children. Hailed by Variety as "over-the-top superb," Boo Killebrew's beautifully crafted American drama follows a family trying to mend amidst a broken justice system.

The winner of this item will attend an early read-though, some rehearsals including technical rehearsals, invited dress rehearsal and the opening night celebration. And enjoy a more in-depth conversation over lunch with Lettie director Abigail Adams.

Details:

• Winner will coordinate with Abbey or staff of People's Light for scheduling based on stage manager and director's availability.
• Value: PRICELESS

Our summer theatre explorations don't begin with a script or an assigned role - they begin with curiosity.

The winner will get to choose a SummerBlast spot for one child in either the

3-week age group session (grades 5-8) or

the 2-week session (grades 2-4).

In addition, you will receive 7 books geared toward middle school readers.

Rather than learn "what lines to say," we begin with a toolbox and learn what we can build. Collaborative exercises generating stories and characters will uncover the link between our own understanding of the world and the performances we create.

All SummerBLAST sessions meet Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm. Extended day is available from 8-9am and 4-5:30pm at an additional cost.

Each session culminates with an informal sharing for family and friends.

Sessions are capped at a maximum of 30 students. Our maximum ratio of 10 students per adult ensures each student receives focused instruction.

• Session 2: Story Lab
• Students entering grades 5-8
• 3 weeks: July 17-August 4

(At the Duportail House July 17-August 1
At People's Light August 2-4)

Our signature three-week exploration for young theatre-makers has two sides. Professional artists guide young actors through favorite techniques for vocal and physical expression, improvisation and scripted work, preparing tools used in performance. Simultaneously, students also follow creative prompts for journaling, writing, and devising their own original ideas, which feed into a group project that becomes the focus in the second half of the program. This work is playful but also rigorous, inviting students to become creators as well as performers.

• Session 3: Story Finders
• Students entering grades 2-4
• 2 weeks: August 7-18

(At People's Light)

Inspiration is everywhere. Imagine each day as a scavenger hunt searching for stories in new ways: in the people we observe, in objects, in music, and in pictures. Once we uncover our stories, we'll apply all the actor's tools of voice, movement, imagination, and collaboration to bring those stories to life in solo exercises, small groups, and as a full ensemble.