NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) – Students are busy preparing for a performance all about the Motown era this weekend.
On Saturday, July 27, at 3 p.m. watch the student’s performance of “A Motown Tribute: From the Assembly Line to the Finish Line” at Carver Memorial Presbyterian Church, 830 25th St.
The production is the finale of the R.E.A.L. DRAMA Theatre Company summer camp. For seven weeks, 25 students ages 5-12 learned the intricacies of theater and all about the Motown era.
“What the kids learn are the disciplines associated with performing arts including, character building, being people of integrity, building healthy confidence and self-esteem,” said Owner and Director R.E.A.L. Drama Felicia Wells.
At the theater camp, students learn everything from costume design to lighting to performing on-stage.
“We have an opportunity to find something for everyone here at camp,” said Wells. “Some come with no experience, but after 7-weeks of camp they are changed people. So many of my parents say they are maturing, or more confident.”
The show will pay homage to the iconic artists who defined the era and celebrate the legacy of Motown. Hear from your favorite artists like Diana Ross, The Temptations and more.
Wells sees the children grow through working in the performing arts, helping them become stronger individuals.
“I cry as soon as it’s over because I know where they were when they came,” said Wells. “I know some that were battling with self-esteem issues, not having the confidence, feeling some insecurities, feeling like ‘do I fit in here.'”
It’s the fifth year of the program. Last year, R.E.A.L. Drama performed a Harlem Renaissance performance called “Cotton Comes to Carver”. It’s a part of Wells long career teaching youth about theater.
“I’ve been teaching children’s performing arts for 25 years,” said Wells.
Wells’ past students at R.E.A.L. DRAMA have gone on to have professional theater careers. She is amazed by seeing the progress and success they have had.
“I have a young lady in Louisville, Kentucky where I used to do the program,” said Wells. “She came in at 12, now she’s performing on Broadway in New York.”
R.E.A.L. DRAMA operates year-round. They offer some after-school and Saturday programs, called “Super Saturdays”. During that time, students will prepare for shows throughout the school year. The next show will be a Halloween production, offering another activity for kids during the fall season.
Tickets are still available. Tickets for the performance cost $10 in advance and $15 the day of the show. For more information and to purchase tickets call (757) 302-8018.
