Theater can help bashful kids blossom
SanTan Sun News
By Alison Stanton
When people think of typical “theater kids,” they might describe them as outgoing, fearless and maybe a bit on the loud side.
As Aimee Stewart, artistic director of Chandler Children’s Choir (CCC), said they can also be shy, timid and quiet.
“We work with plenty of bashful kids who do really well in group performances,” Stewart said.
“They may sing softly or sometimes they just stand there, but we’ve never had anyone who doesn’t want to get up on stage.”
Later this month, CCC is offering a week-long Showtime Summer Camp that Stewart said is ideal for shy kids.
In addition to performing in groups to avoid the stress of individual parts, the kids are divided into age groups, and solo singing and speaking parts are optional, she said.
The camp, which is for kids ages 6 to 15, is held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. from Monday, June 22, to Friday, June 26, at Desert Cross Lutheran Church, 8600 S. McClintock Dr., in Tempe. The camp is $205 and a performance is scheduled for 3 p.m. June 26.
“Each smaller age group has one number that they work on all week, and there
are three numbers that all of the groups work on together,” Stewart said.
Each day includes group singing, group dancing and art classes.
“It’s a really great thing for shy kids to learn that there is strength in numbers and that they are in a safe place where they will not be criticized. They all end up feeling really proud of themselves and their accomplishments.”
Mary-Jo Okawa, artistic producing director for Copperstar Repertory Co. in Chandler, said that being involved with theater is definitely beneficial for kids who are prone to being bashful.
“It helps to build self-esteem and if it’s the right experience it will definitely help them to feel more confident about themselves,” she said.
“It’s good for those kids to start with a camp or class, because there are not as many high expectations.”
Okawa said it’s very common for theater to help shy kids become more comfortable in social situations.
“I’ve seen them come out of their shells and feel more comfortable. It’s all about trusting people and knowing that they will not be made to look foolish.”
“Using a positive experience at theater camp to overcome shyness will ultimately help kids in other ways,” Stewart said.
“There are so many benefits to developing their whole person to encourage them to be more confident. Kids will all have to give oral reports in school at some point, and they should have more experience talking in front of others beforehand.”
Stewart and Okawa both recall numerous instances where a child arrives for the first day of theater camp acting extremely shy, only to blossom on stage.
“One girl was very, very shy at first but has gone on to do many different performances; she really comes out on stage and does very well,” Okawa said.
Sara Turley, whose daughter, Elizabeth, is part of the Chandler Children’s Choir, said that singing and playing an instrument has helped Elizabeth to overcome her shyness.
“Communicating her thoughts and
feelings with others vocally has always been a struggle for Elizabeth, but when she is sharing her music, whether it is singing or playing an instrument, she has been able to find the courage to perform in front of others,” Sara said.
In a recent concert, Elizabeth was given a narration part that required her to memorize quite a few lines, rehearse them with other singers and deliver them on stage in front of a large audience.
“We weren’t sure how it would turn out, but she exceeded our expectations and delivered her lines with confidence and expression. Being a part of the Chandler Children’s Choir has helped her grow in skill and confidence,” Sara said.
For more information about CCC’s Showtime Summer Camp or to register, visit www.chandlerchildrenschoir.org/ summercamp.html. For more information about Copperstar Repertory Co. and its upcoming summer performances, visit http:// copperstarrep.org.
Alison Stanton is a freelance writer who lives in the East Valley. She can be reached at Alison@SanTanSun.com
RESOURCES
Websites:
www.kdstudio.com/2012/09/20/howacting-classes-can-help-a-shy-childblossom/
www.nymetroparents.com/article/canshy-children-succeed-in-musical-theaterclasses-camp
Books:
“The Shyness Breakthrough: A No-Stress Plan to Help Your Shy Child Warm Up, Open Up, and Join the Fun,” by Bernardo Carducci
“Too Shy for Show-and-Tell,” by Beth Bracken
“Maya’s Voice,” by Wen-Wen Cheng
Mary-Jo Okawa, artistic producing director for Copperstar Repertory Co. in Chandler, said that she has seen many quiet kids blossom and come out of their shells while on stage. Submitted photo
Painting theater props with other children is one of the many activities offered in the Chandler Children’s Choir’s Showtime Summer Camp. Submitted photo
Nourishing Vegetarian Comic to Costume Tumbleweed Tumble
Tots
Tumbleweed Tumble Tots
Upcycled Headbands
Tumbleweed Tumble Tots
Upcycled Headbands “Into the Woods” “Arya’s Rock”
Tumbleweed Tumble Tots
Upcycled Headbands “Into the Woods” Mini Album
Tumbleweed Tots “Into the Woods”
Tumbleweed Tots “Into the Woods” “Arya’s Rock” Friday Feeding Frenzy
Tumbleweed Tots
“Into the Woods” “Arya’s Rock” Meet the Creature
Moms Fourth of July Crafts
6
Page to Screen, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. This exhibition will highlight some of America’s favorite children’s books, comic books and fictional literature that have been adapted to film and television. The exhibition will include original artworks, animation cells, original signed scripts, promotional materials and vintage toys. Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe. Free. (480) 350-2829, www.tempe.gov.
6, 13
Donuts and Dads, 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. What’s more fun than baking donuts with your dad? Mix up the batter, bake and decorate these fun treats. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Road, Chandler. $6 to $9 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.
8
Introduction to Rocks and Minerals Part I, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Learn about the basics of rocks and minerals and how to identify them based on their physical properties. All participants will leave with samples of some of the most common types of rocks and minerals found in Arizona. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $6 to $9 registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.
8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23
Nourishing Vegetarian—Junior Chefs Cooking Class, 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Bond with your child in this hands-on class and learn new kid-friendly recipes in the process. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Road, Chandler. $6 to $9 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.
8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29
Tumbleweed Tots, 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. This indoor play area is designed for children ages 5 and younger to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $3. (480) 782-2900, www. chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.
9
Comic to Costume—How to do it, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. This workshop shows teens how to take a comic character and turn it into a working costume. Participants should bring in a picture of the comic character outfit they want to make. Tempe Public Library—Meeting Room B, 3500 S. Rural Rd., Tempe. Registration required, contact tplprograms@tempe.gov. (480) 350-5500, www.tempe.gov
9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30
Tumbleweed Tumble Tots, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. This indoor play area is designed for children 5 and younger to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $3. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.
10
Cowboy Cookout, 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Start your day off right with a big cowboy breakfast in the park! Get geared up in your old west attire and help prepare your own breakfast in true traditional old west style over the campfire in Dutch ovens. Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $10 to $14 registration fee. www.chandleraz.gov.
10 Adventures of Supper Puppy—Puppet Theatre, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Come and see the Adventures of Super Puppy show intended for children 5 years of age and younger. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $6 to $8 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www. chandleraz.gov.
10, 17, 27
Sounds of Summer, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Have fun with hands-on activities, interesting displays, fun interactive and special performances at the Tempe History Museum this summer. Tempe History Museum, 809 E. Southern Ave., Tempe. (480) 350-5100, www.tempe.gov.
SPECIAL VISITOR
11, 18, 25
Upcycled Headbands, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Have a favorite T-shirt that you can no longer wear? Upcycle it into two stylish headbands by using a Celtic knot and a five-strand braid. Participants should bring at least one T-shirt and scissors. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave. $6 to $9 registration fee. (480) 782-2727, www.chandleraz.gov.
12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27, 28 “Into the Woods,” at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Come enjoy an evening with classic storybook characters as they embark on a new, modern adventure. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix. $29 to $39. (602) 254-7399, www.herbergertheater.org.
13, 14
Sesame Street Live “Let’s Dance!” various times. Hosted by two live performers, this show offers an up-close, interactive experience that includes dance parties. It’s Sesame Street Live like you’ve never experienced it before! Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, One E. Main St., Mesa. $17 to $55. (480) 644-6500, www.mesaartscenter.com.
13, 27
Meet the Creature, 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. In this interactive program, children will get up close and personal with live animals while receiving a fun lesson in wildlife rescue and conservation. Each program features different, fascinating animals from around the world. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Road, Chandler. $6 to $9 registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.
16
Stamp Club, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Children ages 13 and older will get the chance to work on cards, scrapbooking and home décor while learning a variety of techniques including stamping, embossing, die cutting, mixed media and design. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Road, Chandler. $6 to $13 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www. chandleraz.gov.
18, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28
“Arya’s Rock: A Video Game Adventure,” 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Follow Jacob as he is thrown into one of his own video games and sets on a journey to find the all-powerful gem known as Arya’s
Rock. This fantastic ride through the world of video games and special effects will entertain kids and adults alike! Mesa Arts Center’s Nesbitt/Elliott Playhouse, One E. Main St., Mesa. $11 to $15. (480) 644-6500, www.mesaartscenter.com.
19
Friday Feeding Frenzy, 3:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Join the EEC staff for a live animal feeding! Meet the animals in the nature center and learn about their diets. Stick around and watch the animals being fed. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.
20
Father’s Day Craft, 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Children will make two fun crafts to take home to give to their dads. They will also read Hop on Pop while eating popcorn. Snedigar Recreation Center, 4500 S. Basha Road, Chandler. Free, pre-registration required. (480) 782-2640, www.chandleraz.gov.
20, 27
Muffins and Moms, 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Come make muffins with your mom! Spend time mixing up batter and baking tasty treats. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Road, Chandler. $6 to $9 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www. chandleraz.gov.
22
Imagination Stations, 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Get out of the heat and enjoy some creative fun! Selfpaced stations will include painting, card making, crafts, educational games and manipulatives and more. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave. $8 to $11 registration fee. (480) 782-2727, www.chandleraz.gov.
23
Garden Gate Mini Book, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Come create a charming mini-book with gardening design. Dies and decorative papers including garden gate, garden tools, flowers, etc. will be provided. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $12 to $17 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.
24
Salt River Fishing Trip, 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Come and fish the Lower Salt River with the City of Chandler. Transportation to different fishing areas around the lower Salt River will enhance this great opportunity for the whole family. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Road, Chandler. $9 to $13 registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.
25
Mini Album, 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. In this class, participants will create two different albums, one to keep and another to give to a friend. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $11 to $15 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www. chandleraz.gov.
27
Fourth of July Crafts, 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Drop off the kids for this fun day of crafting. Participants will be making a fun, patriotic wind catcher, a mini firework paper art craft, a star-themed paper plate hat and have a fun red, white and blue snack. Snedigar Recreation Center, 4500 S. Basha Road, Chandler. Free, pre-registration required. (480) 782-2640, www.chandleraz.gov.
29, 30
Once Upon a Dream (A Summer Fantasy Camp), 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Calling all princesses and princes to a morning of magical make believe full of dance, song, crafts, dress up, games and snakes to make this morning camp unforgettable. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave. $7 to $10 registration fee. (480) 782-2727 www.chandleraz.gov.
Students in Cindy Bickley’s second-grade class at Tarwater Elementary School recently welcomed special visitor Zach Werlinger,
University
Arizona football player
Basha High School graduate. He spoke to her pupils about the importance
“Whether it is sports, chess
We offer hundreds of opportunities for you and your family to discover hidden talents, develop new skills and have fun through our classes, programs and events. For a complete listing of upcoming activities or for more information on programs highlighted below pick up Break Time magazine at Chandler facilities, visit www.chandleraz.gov/registration or call 480-782-2727.
Summer INTERSESSION YOUTH CAMPS
JUNE 1 - JUL Y 17
Don’t let your kids be home alone or bored all break - enroll them in our fun and affordable youth programs! Qualified staff will engage kids in sports, games, arts & crafts, skits, youth development activities and special events. Morning, afternoon, or full day sessions are available at the Community Center, Tumbleweed Recreation Center, Snedigar Recreation Center and the Environmental Education Center.
Club TRC TWEEN SUMMER CAMP
JUNE 1 - JULY 17
Looking for a camp to keep your “tween” busy this summer intersession? Then Club TRC is the perfect option for you. This exciting two-week camp offers weekly full day and afternoon half-day sessions for ages 10-13. Days are packed with a variety of activities including sports, crafts, trips and more!
Park opens at 7 p.m. Fireworks show starts at 9 p.m.
Pack your basket, bring your chairs and enjoy the fireworks and music stage, featuring a DJ from 7-8 p.m. and the band Plastic Gladys from 8-9 p.m. Light refreshments will be available for purchase. An alcohol free event.
$5 per vehicle
SATURDAY, JULY 4
TUMBLEWEED PARK | 2250 S. McQueen Rd.
Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the Chandler City Council
Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the Chandler City Council present
Celebrate Park and Recreation Month with ’80s-themed events
By Meghan McCoy
The City of Chandler is rolling back the cost of some its events to 1980s pricing this July to celebrate the 30th anniversary of National Park and Recreation Month.
The National Recreation and Park Association, which is sponsoring the event, is the governing body of all parks and recreation agencies.
“They challenged us to rock parks and recreation month ‘80s style,” said Brooke Peterson, City of Chandler marketing and communication coordination. “We decided to offer an array of retro-themed programs for free or 1980s pricing. I think it’s going to be a blast.”
Peterson is excited to offer the Retro Adult Prom from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, July 24, at Tumbleweed Recreation Center. Admission is $5 for residents and $7 for nonresidents.
“We are encouraging people to find their best ‘80s-themed prom attire,” Peterson said. “This is their chance to go to the prom.”
The prom will include a DJ cranking out ‘80s tunes, a balloon archway, punch and snacks. It will also include a photo backdrop with awkward prom pose suggestions for attendees.
Tumbleweed Recreation Center hosts 50 group exercise classes per week. In July, it will feature Buns of Steel, Jane Fonda Toning and step aerobics.
The Veterans Oasis Park’s Environmental Education Center will have a Captain Planet Walk, a half-mile stroll that travels through the “solar system.” Peterson said those interested should stop by the center’s office first to get a planet fact sheet and earn a surprise.
Another event that is guaranteed to attract a large crowd is the Mesquite Groves Dive-In Movie “Back to the Future.” It will be held from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, July 17. Admission is 25 cents for youth; 75 cents for adults.
The movie will be projected on a big screen, providing attendees with the opportunity to float in the pool while watching the flick.
Peterson said the great thing about hosting the movie at Mesquite Groves is the fact that it is located in Southeast Chandler where there is minimal light pollution.
Speaking of the pool, the popular Cardboard Boat Regatta will be held at Arrowhead Pool from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday, July 16. Registration is required. Peterson said they are encouraging scout groups, family groups and church groups to join in on the fun.
Participants will be given an hour to create their cardboard boat before getting in the boat and racing it across the pool. She said they are encouraging people to dress the part to man their ship in an ‘80s theme.
The Community Center is also offering a slew of free Friday Flick & Fun Night activities. On Friday, July 10, “Karate Kid” will be featured, as well as a karate class demo.
the fun Thursday,
The following Friday, July 17, “Land Before Time” hits the big screen and a ceramics demo will be featured. “Gremlins” can be enjoyed on Friday, July 24, along with a dance, and arts and crafts demo. On Friday, July 31, “The Little Mermaid” will be featured, as well as a Dance Matrix demo.
Those who attend the ‘80s-themed programs will receive cards that look like a cassette tape with spaces on which to put a name and phone number. Peterson said
once they turn in the cassette tape they will be entered for a chance to win a drawing.
“The more activities the community participates in, the better chance to win,” she said.
For a complete listing of events, visit www.chandleraz.gov/parkandrecmonth.
Meghan McCoy is a section editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@santansun.com.
H. Wilson, M.D. and Lois Henderson, FNP—
Join
July 16, at Arrowhead Pool for a Cardboard Boat Regatta. Submitted photo
347 Grill
Ak-Chin
16000 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa (520) 233-2426, www.ultrastarakchin.com
Children ages 6 and under eat free with paid adult during Sunday brunch. Tuesdays are family nights, where all kids 12 and younger eat free with the purchase of an adult entrée. Ice cream scoops are $1 in the Cones Café.
Apple Dumpling Café
3076 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Suite 101, Gilbert (480) 279-3879, www. appledumplingcafe.com
Mondays are family value night, where kids eat free with each adult meal purchase of $6.95 or more. On family fun night, kids receive free ice cream with a meal. Ice cream happy hour is 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, where kids buy one ice cream or dessert and get one free.
Chompie’s
3481 W. Frye Rd., Chandler (480) 398-3008, www.chompies.com
Children 10 and younger receive one free item from the kids’ meal menu with an adult meal purchase of $8 or more on Tuesdays. Dine-in only.
Connect5 Family Centers Corp.
222 E. Warner Rd., Chandler (480) 699-2122
Receive a free kids’ meal with an
WHERE KIDS EAT FREE
adult purchase for Munchie Monday, free lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Freebie Friday Free Dinner from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Copper Still Moonshine Grill
2531 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101, Gilbert (480) 656-1476, www.CopperStillMoonshineGrill. com
Kids ages 10 and younger eat for free on Tuesdays with the purchase of an adult meal.
Dilly’s Deli
2895 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 5, Chandler (480) 722-0645, www.dillysdeli.com
Get one free kids’ meal for each adult meal purchased at $6 or more on weekends.
El Palacio Restaurant & Cantina
2950 E. Germann Rd., Chandler (480) 802-5770, www.epfamilyrestaurants.com
Kids 12 and younger eat free when adult meals are purchased on Wednesdays.
Fat Willy’s
4850 S. Gilbert Rd., Chandler (480) 883-1356, www.fatwillysaz.com/Chandler
From 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesdays, dine-in and get a free kids’ meal with every adult entrée purchased. Kids can select from the Little Leaguers menu only and must be 12 and younger.
Floridino’s Pizza & Pasta
590 N. Alma School Rd., Suite 35, Chandler (480) 812-8433, www.floridinos.net
Kids eat free from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Wednesdays. Receive one free kids meal per $8 adult purchase when customers dine-in only.
Nabers Music Bar & Eats
825 N. 54th St., Chandler (480) 705-0288, www.nabersaz.com
Kids eat free on Mondays and Tuesdays with the purchase of an adult meal and two beverages. Dine-in only.
NYPD Pizza
2580 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler (480) 722-0898, www.aznypdpizza.com
Kids eat for free on Wednesday and Sunday after 4 p.m. with the purchase of a small or medium pizza. Dine-in only.
Pittsburgh Willy’s
48 S. San Marcos Pl., Chandler (480) 821-3197
Everyday, except Sunday breakfast, one child aged 10 and under eats free with each paying adult, while additional kids eat for 50 percent off, when they order from the Wee Willy menu only.
Planet Sub
1920 W. Germann Rd., Chandler (480) 245-6503, www.planetsub.com
Kids eat free with a paying adult on Mondays.
Sidelines Grill
2980 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler (480) 792-6965, www.sidelinesaz.com
Kids eat free from the kids’ menu after 4 p.m. on Thursdays with the purchase of an adult entree. Dine-in only.
Someburros Great Mexican Food
3461 W. Frye Rd., Chandler (480) 726-8226
2597 S. Market St., Gilbert (480) 497-8226
1335 E. Baseline Rd., Gilbert (480) 755-8226 www.someburros.com
From 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesdays, kids 12 and younger eat free with the purchase of a combo or specialty meal. Dine-in only.
The Cove Grill
5070 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 400, Chandler (480) 802-9070, www.thecovegrill.com
Kids younger than 12 receive one free meal per adult entrée purchased on Tuesdays. Dine-in only.
Whiskey Rose Bar and Grill
135 W. Ocotillo Rd., Chandler (480) 895-ROSE (7673)
Kids eat free on Tuesdays and Sundays with purchase of an adult entree.
WHERE KIDS EAT FREE
The SanTan Sun News now has a regular “Where kids eat free” section. Restaurant owners, please email us details such as days of the week kids can eat free at your establishment, and what conditions apply, such as purchase of an adult meal, certain hours, etc. Include your restaurant name, address, phone and website and a contact name for verification.
Readers, if you know of a location that has a kidseat-free program, email us with the restaurant name, a phone and / or email for confirmation and details. Email information to KidsEatFree@santansun. com.
