Another common art production in the books: the Easter Play was a huge success. I am so proud of all my cast members for their hard work. I think the most gratifying part was not the performance itself, but the process:  getting to see everyone become more comfortable being expressive and dramatic, and seeing the unique ways in which they each related to their characters. I did a “talkback” after the play, where I asked each cast member to share something they had learned from the experience.  It was beautiful to hear everyone’s unique take-aways. Whether it was about sharing a message of stopping violence, appreciating small joys, embracing skepticism, making oneself heard, or having faith, it seems as if everyone got what they needed out of it.  That’s the whole point of drama therapy: that people will project the healing experience they need into the dramatic work.

My time is shortly coming to a close here at common art! To wrap up the next few weeks, I will be finishing my superheroes project. My plan is to have a display/showcase of everyone’s superhero persona on my last day, May 7. I can’t think of a better way to spend my last day than appreciating the superpowers of this awesome community.

Until next week!  – Mary Schwabenland