HIV/AIDS Theaterworks

Theater is an excellent medium for young people fighting the AIDS pandemic. It involves a variety of skill sets, so diverse students can succeed in it and a large number of curricular connections can be made. It also invites participation from actors, crew, and audiences, increasing the number of people learning from the experience.

A group of students researched the issue and worked with AIDS activists to prepare skits depicting youths making positive decisions regarding peer pressure and their health. The students encouraged audience participation, and used ongoing role-playing and reflection to prepare for challenging reactions and debate.

Adapted from "The Complete Guide to Service-Learning," Copyright © 2004 Cathryn Berger Kaye. All rights reserved. Used with permission of Free Spirit Publishing Inc., Minneapolis, MN. (866) 703-7322.
www.freespirit.com.