Volume 2, Issue 4 April 2007

Around the Block Program Begins PEI School Tour

Puppeteers: Back row: Mary Peters, Patrick Richardson, Derrick Doucette, James Sobey, Mohammed Mara Middle row: Joni-Lee Smith, Rebecca Lidstone, Tyler Nicholson, Courtney Crosby Bottom row: Adam Gaudet, Alex Matheson

Since 2001, the Around the Block Project (sponsored by the PEI Council of the Disabled and funded by the Skills Link program of the Government of Canada) has offered PEI youth an educational outreach program of life skills and employability training. A unique component of this program is the participants’ involvement in the creation, production, and performance of an original theatre piece designed to educate students on disability issues and bullying. “The performance is fast-paced and includes puppets, acting, and music that appeals to everyone”, says Scott Parsons, Theatrical Director.

Beginning Monday, April 16th, the ten participants will be performing at PEI elementary schools from Summerside to Eastern Kings, ending on Friday, May 11th with a VIP Performance at the Arts Guild. “Everyone is getting very excited about the tour and performing before a live audience!”, says Alana Jarvis, Project Co-ordinator.

The last two years’ projects had focussed on Intermediate and High Schools. The first three projects were aimed at the elementary level. For more information contact: (902) 367-3515

Click here to return to the April 2007 Ability News index.