A Peek Behind the Upcoming Premiere

The Bethel Bloodhounds have shown a great deal of perseverance, resilience, collaboration, growth and encouragement towards one another in preparation for the upcoming premiere. It all started 5 weeks ago.

Week 1 – Each learner brainstormed an idea for a play. On Friday, they pitched their play: the characters, problem, resolution, and why their play should be chosen. The winner was announced after a blind vote, and plans were already starting as they walked out of school welcoming the weekend together.

Week 2 & 3 – Writing sessions began. I was struck by a few things. First, the beauty in seeing learners ages 5 – 12 gather around a table while respecting and listening to each other’s ideas. Second, the excitement they had creating the script together. It was hard work. They received “editor” notes. They revised it. They removed some of their favorite scenes upon recognizing they did not help move the story forward. They revised it. They added more dialogue. They revised it. Finally, they had a completed script they created. Lastly, the peers voted on a director, auditioned for parts, assigned a backstage manager, began planning the lighting with a budget they were given, and off they went to do more hard work!

Week 4 & 5 – The learners brought it all together (and continue to do so). They’ve practiced, refined, modified and done their best to better what they have created together. On top of all of that, they have memorized lines, designed and created the set and costumes within budget, and provided all the needed props for this coming Thursday.

1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV) comes to mind as I reflect on what these learners have accomplished in the past 5 weeks. “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”

Thank you, learners, for setting a Christ-like example. You teach me daily. Your writing sessions remind me to actively listen to others. Your words of encouragement remind me to seek ways I can build others up. Your ability to try new, hard things reminds me to have courage, for God promises to be with me. Your perseverance reminds me to lean on God and trust in him. You, learners, teach me daily. I cannot wait to see the fruit of your labor this Thursday!

Miss Amy