HTY offers hands-on keiki fun •
Kids can try out stage weapons, play musical instruments and get a glimpse behind the scenes at Honolulu Theatre for Youth’s onstage workshop for "Five Chinese Brothers" on Sept. 22.
One workshop is being held for each HTY production this season.
Alvin Chan, who portrays one of the five brothers in the show, traveled to China for three months of intensive studies in martial arts, music and Chinese opera.
HTY ONSTAGE WORKSHOP
Sessions are held from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Tenney Theatre. Sessions cost is $10; 50 percent off for season ticket holders. For more information or to register, call 839-9885, ext. 720.
The schedule of workshops:
>> “Five Chinese Brothers”: Sept. 22
>> “Spooky”: Oct. 27
>> “Christmas Talk Story”: Dec. 15
>> “Call It Courage”: March 2
>> “Charlotte’s Web”: May 4
|
He learned about Beijing opera, drum patterns, cloud hands (hand movements and gestures that help to communicate the story line in a production), spear-twirling and tossing, and makeup application. Then he had a mere three weeks to share with fellow cast members the knowledge he acquired.
The workshops were introduced a couple of years ago with a group of fervent fans, said Eric Johnson, HTY artistic director. "Some families would come to the show three or four times. The kids wanted to know more, so we’d take them backstage to meet the actors," said Johnson.
"The kids love going backstage. They get to see how the magic works behind the scenes," said actor Junior Tesoro.
Maile Holck, who portrays the mother of the five brothers, said, "The workshop is really hands-on. There’s nothing like getting your hands on the spear or playing the cymbals."
"It provides a fuller experience of theater," Chan added.
During the one-day workshops, children and their parents are broken down into several groups to learn about the props and operations.
About 40 people may attend, so advance reservations are recommended.
The workshops offer a level of low-commitment introduction to the theater.
"Creativity really distinguishes (HTY’s) educational system, from the fun entrepreneur to scientists and artists. These kids are the next generation of great thinkers," Johnson explained. "These guys are professional artists, making art every day." — Nancy Arcayna, Star-Advertiser
Dive into literacy event at aquarium
The Waikiki Aquarium is offering a whale of a time with its third annual "Fish Tales: Chronicles, Critters and Crafts" from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 15.
Celebrity storytellers will read from popular books that feature the ocean or underwater creatures. You will also find costumed sea animals like Kimo the dolphin and Olina the octopus meeting with kids on the lawn.
Keiki activities include puppetry, arts and crafts, face-painting, cartoon illustration, storytelling and creative movement. There will also be special activities provided by Lego.
The event, designed to encourage literacy, is sponsored by Aqua Hotels & Resorts and Diamond Bakery.
Event participation is included with daily admission ($6 for residents, students and seniors; $4 for ages 13 to 17; $2 for ages 5 to 12; free children 4 and under).
Call 923-9741 or visit www.waquarium.org for more information. — Star-Advertiser staff
Check out YMCA at open houses
The YMCA is opening its doors to the public at all eight Oahu facilities from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. today for free fitness classes, use of the weight and cardio training centers, and family fun activities.
Classes that will be offered include yoga, turbo kick, Zumba, kickboxing, circuit training and cycling. Keiki can also sign up for activities and receive free fitness assessments.
Each Y branch will offer guided facility tours, prize giveaways and its own set of activities.
Attendees who sign up for membership during the open house will receive a special rate as well as free membership in "Y Let’s Get Started," which is a three-week personalized health and fitness program.
For a complete schedule of activities and locations, visit www.ymcahonolulu.org. Call 531-YMCA (9622) for more information. — Star-Advertiser staff
Book of mazes engages kids with local tales
"Amazing Mazes Under the Sea in Hawai‘i" (Mutual Publishing, $6.95) includes 21 mazes that are geared toward preschoolers and younger elementary-age kids.
Short but endearing stories written by Ellie Crowe are included with each maze.
For example: "Honu, the baby turtle, just popped out of his egg. A big crab is trying to catch him. Can you help him find the ocean fast?" Kids work through the maze to bring baby Honu to safety.
Tammy Yee’s vivid illustrations perfectly depict the stories being told. Unfortunately, the entire book is in black and white, which is a shame considering Yee’s drawings deserve more pizazz. However, kids will enjoy the cool mazes despite the lack of color.
Available at www.amazon.com. — Nancy Arcayna, Star-Advertiser
