Patricia Chapman

Chapman's "Readers Theater" is a project created to improve relations between at-risk students, the school, and the community. At-risk youth and other high school age volunteers are recruited to help direct younger students in original theatre productions. The children portray characters in plays adapted from selected children's books. The performances become neighborhood events as volunteers from the community help with lighting, set decoration, and other elements. As the books are enjoyed and adapted, literacy is improved, and teamwork and cooperation between age groups are encouraged.