Light of Christ students set for Artists in Residence Program

Light of Christ Catholic School students are set for a unique creative experience in the coming weeks. 

Through grant funding, Theatre Prospero’s Artists in Residence Program is coming to the Lac La Biche school to work together on a final artistic production. 

Over the course of two weeks, students will experiment with improvisation around a directed prompt, work on writing and acting out a story, soundscape exploration, creative writing exercises, and other activities. 

Then, they will be working more pointedly on their story, creating murals, sets, costumes, music, and food preparation, in anticipation of a final show. 

“This program is a wonderful opportunity for our students to immerse themselves in performance-based projects that will involve drawing, singing, filming, editing, storytelling, and so much more” said school principal Carmen Semeniuk in a press release. 

“It is a unique platform for our students to showcase their creativity.”

The funding was made available through a $15,000 grant offered by Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA), the remaining $5,000 was funded by the school. 

Through the program, three artists work with students to build on various creative skills. The intention is for all students to participate in some form, whether they help create the set, write the script, brainstorm choreography, or make costumes. 

The theme of the residency is Spring, and all the season represents, such as rebirth, rejuvenation, renewal, and regrowth. 

The residency also aligns with the school’s commitment to Indigenous teachings. For example, students will be encouraged to take inspiration from the natural world, incorporating materials from the land in their presentation and creation of the production. Portions of the program will also be experienced outside, utilizing the woods and lake within walking distance from the school. 

“This is completely written, designed, choreographed, and performed by the students under the guidance of the artists. Even the food prepared for the main event will be cooked by the students,” said Semeniuk. 

“This is going to be a chance to see our students truly put themselves and their ideas out there. We cannot wait to see what they come up with.”

With files from Lakeland Catholic School Division.