Ancient Dance

On Friday morning, April 11, four sixth classes at the Tobin School, treated their audience to a magnificent movement performance. The theme of the performance, ancient river civilizations, was connected to the children's social studies curriculum. The students used their knowledge to develop movements and present relevant ideas. To open the program, four students from each class depicted the common elements of the ancient river civilizations. Then each of the four classes did a movement piece specific to a particular culture: Mesopotamia, Egypt, China, and India. The backdrop of sails, the gorgeous lighting, the incredible costumes, the inspiring music, and the choreographed creative movements of the sixth graders came together to transport the audience back in time and place. The audience members rewarded the performers with a standing ovation, some were even moved to tears.

This effort was funded by the Cambridge School Drama and Performing Arts Department headed by Judith Contrucci. All of the teachers involved are part of the Cambridge School Drama Collaborative and have been receiving workshops, staff development and support for their efforts for the past four years. WIlliam Endslow, a Cambridge Drama Department staff developer and Marianne Adams, a drama teacher, worked with the classes on creating movements. Christine Piscatelli, a professional dancer, choreographed the pieces. This effort shows what collaboration can achieve. Hats off to the John M. Tobin School!