Dramatic Involvement
Before the school year begins, the Project SUCCESS staff meets with local theater’s staff to identify upcoming productions that address issues similar to those faced by young people.  We also secure tickets from our theater partners so students and families – many of whom have never been to a play before – can attend theater performances for free.

Powerful School Workshops
Once plays have been selected, we work with teachers and students to develop customized curricula for the ages and interests of students in grades 6-12.  During the school year, the Project SUCCESS staff leads fun, high-impact monthly workshops where students study the play’s context and history.  Students also learn how to enjoy plays as thoughtful, respectful audience members.

Most importantly, students spend time examining the relationships between the world of theater and their own, often tumultuous worlds.  We facilitate discussions and creative exercises to aid students in identifying short-term and long-term goals and establishing individual agendas for accomplishment.  Throughout the workshops, we provide practical tools and much-needed encouragement so young people’s dreams of achievement can become fantastic realities.  When needed, we also offer one-on-one counseling and assistance to students who require additional help in achieving their goals.

Strengthening Families
Involvement by adults and family members plays a vital role in developing young people.  So a large part of our work is focused on bringing families together at performances.  Unlike other programs that simply offer free theater tickets, Project SUCCESS manages the logistical details that may otherwise prevent students and parents from participating.  We provide transportation for families who don’t have any, child care for children under 10 years old and chaperones for students not accompanied by an adult.  Following the performances, students and their parents are invited to meet with the actors and other theater staff to talk about the play and the issues it raised.