More than 230 students in grades 4-8, along with nearly 40 youth volunteers and teachers, embraced the music and history of Motown through theatrical, musical and dance performances at a high-energy show, which culminated the district's Summer Academy of the Arts Program.
Sponsored by the 21st Century Community Learning Center Literacy through the Arts Program, the four-week, free summer program offers students an opportunity to explore the arts through music, dance, theatre and visual arts.
"This program allows the students to have access to the arts and to continue their arts education over the summer months," Dr. Talonda Thomas, the program's coordinator said."They learn to play instruments, dance, sculpt and paint. They also take part in theatre classes."
During the show, parents in the audience clapped along as participants reenacted famous Motown musicians such as The Jackson 5, Chuck Berry and the Marvelettes through theatrical, musical and dance performances. They also enjoyed an exhibit featuring the students' artwork displayed in the lobby of the building.
