The Young Audiences Program (YAP) does much more than just bring young people to the theatre. Teachers and select students attend a half-day of instruction in the themes and creative elements of the play. Using the information and Discovery Guides from the conference, students and teachers together prepare the rest of the class to see the show.
The Color Purple
Based on the novel by Alice Walker
Book by Marsha Norman
Music and Lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis and Stephen Bray
Directed by Gary Griffin
Conference: Saturday, January 26, 2008, required
Performance: Wednesday, March 5, 2008, Ahmanson Theatre
An inspiring family saga that tells the story of a woman who finds the strength to triumph over adversity. Through music and dance, The Color Purple examines the struggle of African Americans fighting to make their way in early 20th century Georgia. How do we discover who we really are, and find the strength to forgive, in an environment of hate and prejudice? How can we raise up our voices to sing, celebrate and heal?
PLEASE NOTE: The Color Purple is nearly three hours long. We will be taking an extended intermission so students may have a quick lunch in the lobby of the theatre. You will not be departing from the Music Center until approximately 2pm. Please plan your transportation accordingly
Requirements: The Young Audiences Program is open to all schools on a first come, first served basis. All teachers are required to attend the educational conference prior to the performance (see dates above). Teachers may bring up to 4 students to the conference.
Fees: Enrollment is $50 for each 30 students, up to 150 students. Enrollment fees defray development costs for the educational materials and conference—theatre tickets are free. Each play is booked separately.
Can't find what you want?
Center Theatre Group offers more flexible dates and a wider selection of productions through its Group Services office. Teachers can arrange for a group of 15 or more students to attend shows at discounted rates.
With an extensive selection of plays and performance dates, this option is suitable for teachers who cannot attend our educational workshops. Teachers can still enrich classroom learning and the theatre-going experience with P.L.A.Y.'s Discovery Guides.
Download them for free!
Support for the Young Audiences Program is provided by the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs.
Main Photo Credit
Students in "Access."
Photo by Craig Schwartz.
Inset Photo Credit
Inset: Post-play discussion for "Blazin'."
Photo by Craig Schwartz.
Inset Photo Credit
Denise Uyehara in "Sez She."
Photo by Craig Schwartz.
