Crosstown Voices
Students from two distinct neighborhoods are given the opportunity to challenge existing perspectives of themselves and their crosstown peers and to transcend the urban divide caused by gang turf wars, language differences or culture barriers. Utilizing our Young Theaterworks Intensive curriculum, Teaching Artists help students at each site develop the skills necessary to create short plays reflecting their experiences as young people living in L.A.’s distinct urban areas. Midway through the program, participants from both schools formally meet at a neutral site to begin forming connections through a day of special programming led by experienced facilitators. Several weeks later, each school presents its work in a professional setting in its own neighborhood. A final presentation of selections from both theaterworks brings together the student bodies and staffs of both schools in a neutral neighborhood. Also invited to this performance are LAUSD administrators, local government officials, and the general public. A facilitated Crosstown Community Forum immediately follows, providing a unique opportunity for adults to hear directly from youth about the issues reflected in the plays and the authors’ creative process.
Key Outcomes for Crosstown Voices participants:
• improve reading, writing and comprehension skills;
• increase ability to work collaboratively with peers and professionals;
• expand career options;
• fulfill state Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA), and Language Arts curriculum standards;
• strengthen listening and communication skills;
• build bridges between communities