Music and Science: A Winning Formula at Dixie Elementary
The Show
Science Rocks at Dixie Elementary School
Presented by the 4th Grade Students
This musical is accompanied by 30 Science Exhibits for a hands-on learning experience!
Good Chemistry
Music and Science combine to teach and entertain the audience in this 45 minute production at Dixie Elementary. I saw the show this morning, and let me say, I haven't had that much fun since Schoolhouse Rock! Mrs. Peter's 4th Grade music classes do a wonderful job bringing scientific concepts and experiments to life through music, actions and dance, signs and other visual presentations. As a whole, the very large ensemble is attentive and committed while actors and soloists are doing their parts. I was pleased to hear so many kids singing so exceptionally well, especially considering that there were around 85 of them! Within this production, you can expect to hear some memorable songs such as: "Rock It", "Solid, Liquid, or Gas", and "Food Chain". You will hear wonderful solos by Abigail, Shelby, Karlee, Miranda, and Gary; and see a live demonstration lead by Samiah and Hayes. All of the lead Scientists do a wonderful job as show narrators, especially Diana as Isaac Newton! She is a stand-out performer all around, being joyful and animated at all times, whether saying her lines or performing as an ensemble member.
A Successful Experiment
Surrounding each production is a set of unique circumstances that a director must work with to ensure a successful show. In this production, 4 separate 4th grade classes combine to tell one story. The rehearsal process was challenging because music teacher/director Mrs. Peters only saw each group for 60 minutes every week. Additionally, MAP testing sometimes coincided with music class, lessening rehearsal time. The cast has only rehearsed as an entire group twice!
The Science of Trial and Error
After viewing the school show this morning, I had the wonderful privilege to stay and talk to the 4th grade students about their performance. Below are some of the tips I gave the kids- great advice for all young performers!
1) "Go big or go home!" - If you feel silly doing the actions on the stage, remember that going full-out will actually look great to the audience, whereas if you don't commit to the actions, THAT will in fact make you look a lot more silly! Put energy into everything you do!
2) "Follow the action with your eyes" - When it's not your turn in the "spotlight" on stage, look at the people who are speaking, singing, or giving the visual demonstration. This puts the audience at ease, creates a unified picture, and helps the young viewers to know where to look.
3) "The Dab!" - When doing the Dab in the context of a song (and I mean, who isn't doing the Dab these days?!", make sure that your hand and arm aren't in front of your mouth, so that we can hear your singing and understand all of your words!
Come out and see the show this evening and let me know if my tips were used! :)
See The Show
Science Rocks is at Dixie Elementary tonight (Tuesday, Dec. 13th) at 5:30. After the show, visit 30 Science Exhibits including: Barns & Noble, Living Arts & Science Center, UK Engineering, Newton's Attic, and Marvelous Pets (I hear they're bringing a Hedgehog!) This non-ticketed (free!) event will go until 7pm.
