Article Contributed on: 8/13/2009 12:31:36 PM
I am a 5th grade teacher in a highly impacted public school in Aurora. In an effort to connect students to literature and performing art, my students recently completed a unit of study in which we compared the characters, themes, and authors purpose in
The Wizard of Oz to those of the musical play,
Wicked. I have taught this unit before, but was astounded by my student's connections, high level of engagement, and community building that this project afforded them.
Since a national touring production of
Wicked is scheduled to play Denver in October and November, I thought that it would be an invaluable experience to take my class and parents to a performance. Having researched group ticket sales through DCPA, it is possible for my kids to see this story on the main stage for $33/ticket. However, because of the socio-economic status of many of my students' families, the price tag is too great. I am writing in order to pursue a fund-raising opportunity. These funds could allow a group of students to experience the power of a shared human story; we have all felt the effects of feeling different. Because this story is told through the medium of music and drama, it is an experience that without outside financial support will be impossible.
I feel so passionate about this because of my own background in theater, and know first-hand that the arts have the power to transform the lives of at-risk kids into a journey that is positive, productive, and safe. If I can ask 1000 people in Denver to contribute $1, I can take my students to see this show for only $8/ticket, making it possible for these students to be exposed to an idea, to art, to possibilities that are in their future. If you can be of any assistance, please contact me. DCPA is asking that the tickets I have on hold be paid for by the end of August. Thank you for your time and considering that such a small amount can collectively allow my students to experience something magical. I became a teacher because I believe, as in the words of Stephen Schwartz, that "Everyone deserves the chance to fly," regardless of where they come from or the limits they may encounter.
Daniel Dillard
720.747.2047
ddillard2@cherrycreekschools.org
You may send donations to the following address, with checks payable to me as I am purchasing the group tickets on a personal account.
Daniel Dillard
Village East Elementary School
1433 S. Oakland Street
Aurora, CO 80012