Love Through Education: A Summer on Stage
Education at So What Else goes beyond the classroom. Through our various out-of-school time youth programs and summer camps, we provide meaningful opportunities for students to grow and express themselves. Having these safe spaces to learn and explore different interests leads to increased confidence, connections, and personal growth.
This summer, we saw students flourish through Team of Stars, our musical theater camp for rising 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th graders.
Over the course of five weeks, more than 30 Team of Stars campers grew tremendously. Beyond the final goal of putting on a good show, Team of Stars gave students a place to try new things, be silly and creative, and discover what they’re capable of.
Students worked on a variety of skills throughout the program, such as acting, singing, playwriting, and blocking. Eventually, they moved from theater games and storytelling exercises into the process of creating original musicals. They developed characters, learned choreography, and designed costumes and props. And they rehearsed a lot.
After weeks of teamwork and preparation, the students finally got to share the results of their hard work with their families and friends. The younger students, Team of Stars Jr., performed The Wizard of Oz, while the older students put on Bring Me the World & Wishes. Their creative and expressive performances showcased the impressive culmination of a summer of collaborative efforts, dedication, and excitement.
During our post-show reflection, students talked about how many new friendships and connections they had made and how very proud they were of the skills they were able to learn. Most of all, they were proud of putting themselves out there.
And as students were leaving on the last day, many of them said the same thing:
“See you next year!”
That’s what Love Through Education looks like in action.
It’s about creating a safe and enriching space where young people can try something new, make positive connections, and accomplish something truly special.
This November, we invite you to celebrate and help grow that spirit of care at the 16th Annual So What Else Love One Another Gala on November 6. The Gala brings our community together for an evening of connection, celebration, and support for programs like Team of Stars that provide safe spaces for young people to grow. Your support helps make these opportunities possible for more students throughout the DMV.
