FERGUS, ON – Last school year, Martin, a grade 5 student at John Black Public School decided that he wanted to bring a Grinch production to the school. Still passionate about the idea this school year, Martin continued his quest with the help of his classroom teacher Terra Matheson.
After learning about scriptwriting, Martin adapted the classic book How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss into a play that could be performed at the school. Martin recruited some friends and held auditions for the play, ensuring that every student who volunteered had a role in the play.
Throughout the fall, Martin and the play volunteers rehearsed, collected props and asked the intermediate artists at the school for help with set design.
Once they were ready, students presented the play to primary classes and parents. When thinking about Martin’s initiative to organize and write this play, his teacher Terra Matheson said, “Beyond the technical aspects of the production, he gained invaluable leadership skills—learning the art of compromise and ensuring his cast felt appreciated and heard.”
Martin is already looking ahead, brainstorming ideas for next year’s production.
Great job, Martin! 