Final Friday at Wendell

This post from the effervescent Andrew Jernigan was written as the cast concluded their residency at Wendell Elementary. Andrew is pictured here instructing a fourth-grade class at Wendell.


Thank goodness it's Friday!

We just wrapped up our two week residency at Wendell Elementary and pulled off a lot of spectacular informances (informative/informal performances). I think I can speak for the entire ensemble when I say this exceptional school had a lot of gifted and hardworking students. After rotating around the classes to see the various dances, plays, and songs the students created to recap what they had learned, I am inspired to push on to STARS and see what we can extract from the next school's future performing artists. But right now, it's time for some rest and relaxation over the weekend.
The fact that the school really centered it's interests into the arts was apparent through the children. The kids continued to point out on the walls which mounted paintings and drawings were their own. They really showed a pride in their work, and had an urgent desire to be a part of the work we were creating. Now, every school has creative and extroverted students, but not all can cultivate an environment that urges focus. Classes at Wendell had what's called a "mudroom", which is a buffer zone between classrooms used for art supplies, storage, and the children's belongings. So while the other classroom isn't necessarily visible, it is certainly audible. Needless to say, this can be distracting, especially when Mr. Adrian is next door doing his Dr. Boogie routine, accompanied by Mr. William's funk guitar riff and Mr. Ulung's bongo drumming, while we are discussing why a seed needs water to sprout. What would you rather be a part of? However, the level of concentration was impressive. I think the teacher's must have been quick to regulate wandering attention and nip it in the bud.
All of the teachers at Wendell Elementary were extremely supportive of the Open Dream mission. They participated in the circle discussions as often as possible, when we split into groups they helped guide the students if there weren't enough teacher artists, even the bold and daring joined the dance parties, and none could resist the joy of singing. Oh, and our entire ensemble was fed everyday, different home cooked meals... This was a fabulous school. We are truly gracious.
So, I leave Wendell Elementary feeling positive about the experience as a whole. Thanks to all the teachers, good luck to all the students, and now it's time for a well deserved nap!!!! Zzzzzz....