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Posted on Tue, May 18, 2010 : 10:56 a.m.

Explorer’s Christian co-op teaches positive values through drama

By Carly Parker

The halls are alive at the Student Theater Arts Complex on U of M’s south campus.
Ten musicians, 16 crew, 38 cast members and several parent volunteers sing, paint and sew to prepare for the famous “Do-Re-Mi” scene during dress rehearsals for the Explorer’s spring production of The Sound of Music.


photos by Morgan Parker

The Explorers Homeschool Association was formed by parent and current administrator Patti Cousino as a Christian co-op for homeschooling parents to share resources - particularly in subjects difficult to pull off in the home - including drama.

Leanne Wade, the play’s director, maintains the organization’s Christian mission in her class by starting each rehearsal with prayer and believes that even drama can promote positive values.

“Being involved in a production like this teaches kids to look outside of themselves,” said Wade. “Not everyone can be in the spotlight - but like God’s plan for us - each part is important.”

The Explorer’s drama program produces 1-2 plays a year, depending on participation - and the students, ranging in age from 7-18, take part in all aspects of the show, including fundraising, set design and acting.

“The kids sign up in June and work on the production for the following year.” said Wade. “They really learn diligence - especially the younger ones. They don’t see the final result until the very end, and the process is truly rewarding for them.”

With many homeschool parents giving up a second income to stay at home with their children, the drama program is financially self-sustaining through yard sales, can drives and other parent-volunteered talents like construction and costume design.

“It’s a family activity - everybody can work together and focus on one thing despite the various ages,” Wade said. “Parents help out in every way they can, and the older cast members look out for the younger ones.”

With the end of May, and their production date approaching quickly, the play is starting to come together and Wade is excited about the show.

“One of our production goals is to provide positive, moral entertainment for the community,” said Wade. “I think we have achieved that.”

Mother Superior would be proud.

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The Explorer’s production of The Sound of Music opens at the
Lydia Mendelssohn Theater, in Ann Arbor at 7 p.m. Friday

Additional shows:

2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday
2 p.m. Sunday

Tickets are $10, $7 for groups of 5 or more and $5 for seniors (60 and older).
Available at the University of Michigan Ticket Office, TicketMaster or on the Explorer’s drama club website.

Carly Parker is the Communications Coordinator for St. Luke Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor. St. Luke is a multisite community that includes St. Luke-Ann Arbor, Living Water and University Lutheran Chapel. Go to www.stlukeaa.org to read more.