Funky Snowman – Lessons Learned

picture by Art Jessen
picture by Art Jessen

Last week, as a one of the culminating events of our Poetry Festival, we were treated to the midwest premier of the play, The Funky Snowman. This show was inspired by Calef Brown’s poem of the same name. This play was written and directed by Wendy Bable. It was a fun and delightful experience, with some fun dancing and a delightful reminder for all of us.

I had the good fortune of being at one of the rehearsals on Sunday, before the Wednesday performance. I was privy to the collaboration between Bable and two actors, Betsy Cummings who played Fritzi and Molly Searcy who played Mademoiselle, all who were visiting us from the University of Texas. The actors and director bounced ideas about the blocking and motivation of the characters and how to display this so that the audience would be able to recognize these motivations. I am sure that this type of interaction occurs all the time, but it was one of the first times that I was able to observe this interchange. My experience was enhanced by having been a witness to the process.

The show also reminded us of two important lessons that we need to remember when we are dealing with students. The first is that not everyone needs to fit into the same box. Fritzi was being put into the box of a ballerina, when all she wanted to do was just dance in her own way. How many times have we tried to shape our students into a mold built by our biases of what is most important? When do we give students the opportunity to experience life in the way that makes them happiest? A wise student who I know once told me, “there are many paths to the same destination. I just happen to be taking the one that no one talks about.”

Secondly, I was reminded of the importance of play, especially for older students. Sure, we provide chances for our elementary aged students to play, but how many of us allow high school students the chance to just play? It reminded me of something I overheard a senior say in the stairwell two years ago, the “I remember when we had the chance to play when we were younger. I miss that.” There is so much learning which occurs when we allow ourselves to play, to free ourselves of those items which cause stress. It is the place where new thoughts and ideas emerge. How are we going to build play into our schools, especially at the higher levels? Must every minute be scheduled, both at school and with the large amount of homework which is often assigned? Is this lack of play one of the reasons why older students are seemingly less engaged in class? Is this how we stomp the love of learning  out of these students?

Funky Snowman

by Calef Brown

Funky Snowman loves to dance.

You’d think he wouldn’t have much of a chance

without two legs,

or even pants.

Does that stop Funky Snowman?

No!!

Turn up the music with a disco beat

when you are in the groove, you don’t need feet.

Crowds come out and fill the street.

Kick it, Funky Snowman!!

2 thoughts on “Funky Snowman – Lessons Learned

  1. Dear Vinny,

    I must confess, during the aforementioned discussion, I was incredibly fearful of your opinions of Betsy, Wendy, and me. Speaking so candidly and openly about such personal matters–it was freeing and terrifying at once.

    When you approached me after the conversation and expressed your feelings regarding what you had overheard, I was floored. Thank you for hearing my heart and for listening with such an unfiltered, amicable ear. I will never forget that day, nor your words–they mean so much. Having the opportunity to freely express my heart without negative judgment, and now to hear the feelings inside your own heart…it’s the most incredible, surprising, wonderful gift of all. Thank you.

    Sincerely,
    Molly aka Funky Snowman choreographer & “Mademoiselle”

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