MARCH 26, 2014
"At Home in the Desert"
Arizona Centennial Legacy Project April 30 and May 1 – 6:30 p.m.
The Arizona Centennial may be over, but the Legacy continues. Activities associated with the Centennial didn’t end with the celebration in 2012. Arizona Centennial Legacy Projects were conceived for continuing impact and range from restoration of historic properties to public art and musical compositions.
Legacy Projects are created and supported by members of the community, after being approved by the Arizona Historical Advisory Committee.
One of the Legacy Projects, "At Home in the Desert" written by Phyllis Strupp, is a one-act play, seeking to help elementary school students sort out their difficulties by connecting with the natural world around them, the desert. The play promotes diversity and communication and is perceived to have potential, statewide, as a tool for reducing bullying.
Eleven year-old Chloe learns valuable life lessons from the Sonoran Desert with the help of some mysterious friends (historical figures, desert plants and animals).
"At Home in the Desert" is directed by Aubrey Grace Watkins and choreographed by Kenda Newbury, with original music by Kevin Glenn. Hohokam-inspired animal masks are designed by Robin Ray.
The play will be performed on April 30, and May 1, 6:30 p.m. at the Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for ages 12 and under. Contact the Foothills Community Foundation for additional information at [email protected] or 480-488-1090.
The play and associated teaching tools will be finalized into a package made available to all K through 12 schools in Arizona, for their use. Phase one of the Legacy Project was writing, fundraising and conducting workshops; phase two is this live production; and phase three will be finalization of the teaching package that includes lesson plans, script, music, and instructions on the creation of masks, costumes and sets.
"At Home in the Desert" partners are Cave Creek Unified School District, Cave Creek Museum, Foothills Community Foundation, Desert Foothills Library, Desert Foothills Theater, Kiwanis Club of Carefree, and Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center.
The Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center is located at 33606 N. 60th Street, Scottsdale AZ 85266.
