Oregon Children's Theatre Blog

2 Comments

1. By lh – Oct 22, 2008
   

   We just saw the play today on a school field trip. I was apalled at the content for these children to hear. There was reference to shooting/killing, guns, and physical violence (all of which we have zero tolerance for in the schools). I thought it was very sad for my son to have been there. I should have done my homework but thought because it was school sponsered that it would be ok for him to see.

2. By Stan – Oct 23, 2008
   

   We always appreciate receiving feedback from audience members, even those who are displeased with our productions. In the case of “Gossamer,” we are well aware that the play addresses troubling issues of child abuse, violence and loss. That is why we have strongly recommended it for children age 10 and above and have promoted it for school field trips for classrooms from 5th grade and up.

   The novel by Lois Lowry, and the script from which our play was adapted by the author herself, is recommended by the publisher for 10 years old and above. We worked closely with educators when choosing this play for our season, and as we developed the script. We involved young people in the script development process, seeking their feedback about the content and about our presentation of the material. What we learned is that children are aware of these challenging and troubling issues. That is part of the reason why young people who read “Gossamer” respond so enthusiastically to the book.

   It is tragic that eight-year-olds, such as the character of John, refer to shooting, killing, guns and physical violence; but some children do, and are rightfully removed from school for such transgressions. But it is important that young people develop empathy, and are able to understand peers who may act out in inappropriate ways. That is why this book and play are so very important. John says horrible things at the start of the show, but we learn that his behavior is complex and is not as simple as a child “acting out.” As the play unfolds, we learn and understand what has influenced his behavior, and we see him begin the first steps of healing. And, like the dreamgivers who protect him and the old woman who takes him in, we want him to heal. We encourage parents and teachers who bring young people to see “Gossamer” to follow-up with thoughtful discussions about the story and their experience.
   Stan Foote
   Artistic Director
   and
   Ross McKeen
   Managing Director

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