Children's Theatre Program
Children's Theatre Program
Award-Winning Innovation: The Lev Children's Theater Program
Makom Solel Lakeside is partnering with Imagined Adventure to provide students with a creative outlet and opportunity to be involved in theatre with their Lev Learning peers. Our theatre program is for 3rd - 7th grade students and meets every Sunday after Lev Learning. Throughout the year the program puts on two productions, one occurring each semester. There is an additional cost to be enrolled in theatre, which covers the cost of lunch and the production. Theatre currently meets on Sundays when Lev Learning is in session from 12:00-2:30pm.
We're excited to welcome new families into our growing program. The Lev Children's Theatre Program represents our commitment to innovative Jewish education that addresses both traditional learning objectives and contemporary challenges facing our youth.
Lev Children's Theatre Program was awarded the 2024 Innovation Award. Selected from among 55 applicants across North America, this recognition validates our innovative approach to Jewish education and youth development.
Origins and Evolution
Launched in fall 2020, the Lev Children's Theater Program emerged as our response to the challenges posed by COVID-19 pandemic. We observed children struggling with isolation, anxiety, and trauma, with many showing hesitancy to attend our Religious School, Lev Learning. Some students faced challenges in social development, self-esteem, and communication skills, while others simply sought meaningful connections and engagement within our community.
Program Overview
The program provides a nurturing environment where children in grades 2 - 7 (ages 7 -13) build confidence, develop teamwork skills, and enhance their public speaking abilities through the performing arts, all of within a Jewish context. Each semester culminates in a musical performance that incorporates Jewish themes, messages, or story lines, creating a meaningful bridge between artistic expression and cultural heritage.
Impact on B'nai Mitzvah Preparation
Our program has proven to be particularly valuable for families approaching B'nai Mitzvah, addressing two common concerns:
1. The desire for early preparation beyond the traditional six-month timeframe
2. Anxiety about public speaking and leading service
The theater program naturally supports B'nai Mitzvah preparation through several key areas:
Essential Skill Development:
- Public Speaking: Students develop natural comfort with audience engagement and vocal projection
- Memorization and Focus: Theatre work strengthens the skills needed for Torah portions and prayers
- Confidence Building: Stage experience translates directly to ceremonial leadership
- Emotional Expression: Students learn to convey meaning and connect with their audience
Personal Growth:
- Time Management: Balancing rehearsals with other commitments develops crucial organizational skills
- Responsibility: Students learn the importance of dedication and following through on commitments
- Community Building: Ensemble work reinforces the communal aspects of Jewish tradition
- Personal Reflection: Character analysis encourages deeper understanding of personal Jewish identity.
The success of this program, under the direction of Ross Krakow and Madisen Dempsey, demonstrates how creative approaches to Jewish education can build essential life skills while strengthening our community bonds. We look forward to continuing this journey of growth, learning, and creative expression with more families in our congregation.
Join the Spring 2025 Production
Children's Theater Program at Makom Solel Lakeside!
Our children's theater program featuring Beauty and the Beast will run after Lev Learning on Sundays, from 12:00 pm-2:30 pm, including lunch. The program will run from January 12th to May 4th. This program is for kids in 2nd-7th grade and costs $475 per semester - scholarships and sibling discounts are available.
Be a part of our referral program! If your child refers another friend for theatre, both that child and the referred child will receive $50 off the cost of the program!
Introducing the "Director in Training" Program!
The "Director in Training" Program is for 8th-9th graders and costs $250 a semester.
Learn the fundamentals of directing, producing, and stage managing as well as assist with tech (lights/sound), set construction, and costume and prop management.
*Spots are first come first serve*
Registration is open!
Register at: https://www.mymakom.org/form/spring-2024-2025-theatre-program.html
Please contact Sammi Krakow, Youth & Family Coordinator, with any questions.
Sun, March 16 2025
16 Adar 5785
1301 Clavey Road | Highland Park, IL 60035 | P: 847.433.3555 | E: office@mymakom.org
Email: office@mymakom.org
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