When empathy is absent, bullying persists. Alice's Story is an interactive theatre performance and workshop designed to help kids understand and deal with bullying.
Two actor-educators visit a classroom and facilitate a 45-minute session exploring the serious issue of bullying. The workshop includes moments of scripted performance, guided discussion and improvisation.
During the workshop, students function as:
- Audience members…as they view short scenes performed by the artists
- Critical thinkers…as they brainstorm effective strategies to counteract bullying
- Actors…as they implement their ideas through role playing
Goals of program:
- To create safe learning environments for all students
- To cultivate communities of respect and inclusion
- To empower students to be agents of positive change
During the workshop, students reflect upon the following points:
- What does it means to have empathy for another person?
- Do bullies have empathy for other people? Why or why not?
- What does bullying look like? Does it always look the same?
- What are some ways bystanders can help stop bullying?
- What is the difference between tattling vs. reporting?
- If you or someone you know is being bullied, what can/should you do?
Residency:
A Literature at Play residency, in which a class-chosen book about bullying is adapted into a play, is also available to schools who wish to extend the program.
A recommended book list and an Anti-bullying Resource Guide will be provided to teachers who participate in the workshop.
Target Audience:
K-5th grades
Price:
$150 per class, for the first session
$100 per class, per follow-up session
Alice’s Story: An Anti-Bullying Performance and Workshop is available to schools and community centers in the New York City area. To book, please contact Education Director Brooke Boertzel at (212) 573-8791 x14 or bboertzel@makingbookssing.org.
