When you think of well-rounded kids, you think of kids with an inherent sense of respect, compassion, friendliness, and success. What you may not think, is that they can get all of this by being involved in theater.
The Eisemann Center, located right here in our backyard, in Richardson, is not only bringing engaging, humorous, and thought-provoking shows to the general public, they’re also doing their fair share of outreach to the community through educational programs. For children and adults alike, the Eisemann works hard to engage the community beyond just their four walls. Their intent is to bring amazing performances to community in a way that is easy and fun.
As a mom whose kids are actively involved in theater, and who regularly attends shows, I have absolutely no doubt that the Eisemann is putting forth greater good to families across North Texas. I can personally attest to the fact that my children have learned more about working in teams, being part of something bigger than themselves, and how to get along with just about anybody, all because of their involvement in theater, both as performers and a spectators.
Hitting the stage on January 26 is the story of David Harrell, a courageous boy who tells the story of his childhood, which includes being fitting for a prosthetic hook before he begins school. Kids can be mean, and David is pushed to the sidelines, left out from childhood games. That is, until the game turns to Peter Pan, and he is able to play the seemingly perfect role of Captain Hook. This works perfectly until David becomes bored with the role, and decides to step out of the boundaries his friends have thrust upon him, not letting his physical restraints confine him to the stereotype. David wants to be a hero, not the villain, and he won’t be held back by his disability.
In The Boy Who Would Be Captain Hook, David uses his own life story to weave in lessons of diversity, inclusivity, and heroism. He describes through his tales what it feels like to be different, and the importance of seeing a person for who they really are, and not focusing on their physical restraints or circumstances.
The Eisemann Center was smart when they chose this story as one in their Family Theatre lineup. They realized the broader theme of individual differences and the importance of inclusion even with those differences, and hence, the discussions they hoped would occur as a result. Human beings have many shared experiences, including how we feel in challenging and hurtful situations. Children who attend this show will walk away with a depth of character they perhaps hadn’t thought about before, not only within themselves, but at school and in their community. They will understand that a disability is merely a life situation, not a horrific life sentence.
The Family Theatre series at Eisemann Center includes many shows, like The Boy Who Would Be Captain Hook, all with the same overall intention of teaching through stories, allowing children to use their imagination. Their educational workshops take that a step further, engaging children’s artistic creativity, the importance of teamwork, perspective-taking and empathy. It is my deepest desire that the great aspects of theater be shared with all families, including yours.
Get your tickets to these Family Series events, as well as other Eisemann Center events, at their website.
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Eisemann – The Boy Who Would Be Hook
