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Teens Create Spring Break Musical
Twenty-one youth from Palm Beach County gathered at Boca Raton Middle School during Spring Break to createa musical adventure. Titled "Conflict Coaster: A musical ride", the show depicted the boredom teens can face with school assignments, and the fears and joys they experienceas they view the world of today, and beyond. The production was funded by the Palm Beach County Commission, Recreation Assistance Program, District 4.
The production is one of fifty delivered worldwide by the Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts (www.Lovewell.org) since its inception in 1990. The Lovewell method is an education program that guides students through the process of developing themes, characters, plot, music and dance. The method stresses creative problem solving, critical thinking and provides training in team building, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, vocational skills building, organization, and leadership.
Boca Raton's Promise selected the Lovewell method because of its effectiveness in impacting students with a new confidence in their own abilities and potential. "During our four Lovewell productions I've seen students form deep and lasting friendships and respect for each others differences", said Rita Thrasher, Executive Director of Boca Raton's Promise and a retired teacher from Broward County who spearheaded the organization's partnership with the Lovewell Institute. "Lovewell is an art form capable of bringing character and culture to entire communities by giving youth a voice in describing their world and sharing it with the generations", she added.
The "Conflict Coaster" was performed for the first time after just four and a half (4 1/2 days) of intense work. A Friday matinee was held for children from the Youth Activity Center and the Boys and Girls Club, and for senior residents of Regents Park and Brighton Gardens. The final show was presented for family and friends, and followed by a reception in honor of the cast and Lovewell instructors: Carrie Gilchrist, Director, and Marcus Davis, Musical Director, who were assisted by Anita Liberty, Program Coordinator.
Casting the show was accomplished with help from partnering youth servicing agencies which referred students who would contribute and benefit from the weeklong training. Students were suggested by the Boys and Girls Club, PROPEL, Caregiving Youth Project, Toward a More Perfect Union, The Teen Cabaret, and Schools of Promise. Schools represented include Suncoast High, West Boca High, Bak Middle, Jeaga Middle, St. Paul's Lutheran, Loggers Run Middle, Eagles Landing Middle, and Boca Raton Middle.
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