Arts In Education: NATIVE at Research Triangle High School

#EbzB presented Native by Ian Finley at Research Triangle High School in North Carolina in March, 2018.  Mr. Finley, the playwright, also teaches at the school.  Research Triangle High School hosted two performances of Native with post-show discussions.  Students were attentive and asked excellent questions about race, politics, theater, economics and identity.  When told that the book Native Son was once banned in schools, the interest of the students grew.  The post-show discussions were frank, open, difficult, and revealing.

After the performance, actors J. Mardrice and David zum Brunnen took time to explain how they prepared for the roles of Richard Wright and Paul Green.  Director Serena Ebhardt discussed themes and viewpoints in the material, and how to stage them.  Ian Finley, playwright and dramatic art teacher, emphasized the importance of research and revisions, noting that the current script of Native used by EbzB Productions is in its 15th draft!  Marketing assistant Devra Thomas and historian Cecelia Moore also attended the performance in supporting roles.

Two students from Research Triangle High School are preparing Set and Multimedia designs for future performances of Native.  Upon seeing the production, they have submitted proposals and drawings of their excellent ideas to EbzB.  #ArtsIntegration and #ArtsInEducation in action at RTHS!

J. Mardrice (Richard Wright) and David zum Brunnen (Paul Green) talk with faculty and students after the performance

J. Mardrice who plays Richard Wright, gives personal advice about the acting craft to a student.

Director Serena Ebhardt in discussion with historian Cecelia Moore