Melissa P Wharton

Our mission is to provide an arts education program for the children of the appalachian region of Virginia, kentucky and tennessee. The programs and activities offered would extend the theater throughout the region and in particular attempt to reach those groups who are not regularly exposed to live theatrical performances. This exposure includes, but is not limited to the performance of plays of a professional quality on a regular basis for the public, education and enhancement in all aspects of theatrical arts, expression, movement, characterization, play writing, directing, set design, construction, costuming and make-up, through active participation in sponsored classes, seminars and public demonstrations. Our goals in these endeavors are to raise self-esteem, enhance academic performance, improve attendance, and encourage sharing and collaboration. In addition, the programs will provide challenging on-the-job training for students who otherwise would be unable to gain experience w