‘Hamilton’-inspired classes will help Dallas students focus on arts, business
Students at the Dallas Theater can design their own marketing campaign for the Broadway musical Hamilton as they learn about careers in the arts.
Not only will 3,400 students and 25 DISD high school teachers see a live performance of the Pulitzer Prize-winning show in December, but they will also incorporate the musical into a specially designed curriculum, said Ken Novice, president of Dallas Summer Musicals.
In the coming weeks, students will explore the arts and business of the theater, officials said on Monday.
“There are many paths and careers in this field other than on stage,” said Novice.
It is inspiring to see the community come together to support students and give them the opportunity to see the “art of the possible,” said DISD Superintendent Michael Hinojosa.
Hamilton is known for its varied line-up, with Hinojosa being particularly enthusiastic about the production with “Afro-Latinos”. About 20% of DISD students are black and about 70% are Latinos, many of whom are also new to the United States.
“Immigrants, we do things,” said Hinojosa, quoting a line from Hamilton.
Students can learn a lot from Hamilton, said Hinojosa.
The show can help them look back on their past with pride and see where they came from, Hinojosa said, referring to his own immigrant upbringing. It can also help them be optimistic about the future as they tackle today’s challenges, he said.
“We prepare [students] for their future, and we have to do it in an inspiring way, ”said Hinojosa.
Bishop TD Jakes, whose foundation is a part of the partnership’s funding, said the opportunity and commitment offered to underserved communities are vital. About 85% of DISD students come from low-income families.
The intersection of science, technology, engineering and math combined with the arts – transforming STEM education into STEAM – will be a huge motivator for students as they think about career paths, he said.
“The arts can be a great catalyst in motivating young people to take an interest not only in the stage but also beyond the stage,” he said. And exploring opportunities can even lead to fame.
“They don’t know who’s going to be next on Broadway because of this opportunity,” he said.
Hamilton’s run at the Dallas Summer Musicals begins November 16 and ends December 5.
The DMN Education Lab deepens reporting and discussion on pressing educational issues that are critical to the future of North Texas.
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