By Tammie Goins
Correspondent
CLEVELAND, Tenn. — It’s amazing what kids can learn in just a week.
All this week, 54 children have been learning lines, songs and dances for a major production they will put on this weekend as part of the Missoula Children’s Theatre after-school drama camp at the Museum Center at Five Points.
They will show off their skills today with two performances of “King Arthur’s Quest” at 3 and 7 p.m. at the Museum Center.
So just how do tour directors Sheena Bergeron and Anna Miller coach five dozen kids into learning skills such as choreography and memorizing lines in such a short time?
“They just do it,” Ms. Bergeron said. “These kids don’t know they can, but we let them use their imagination … and it turns out really cool.”
Children committed themselves to six days of long rehearsals just to get things right, but it’s worth every minute, they say.
“It’s very fun,” said 15-year-old Nathaniel Moe, who has been in a number of productions before “King Arthur’s Quest.” “We get to look after the younger kids, and they look up to us.”
IF YOU GO* What: “King Arthur’s Quest”* Where: Museum Center at Five Points, 200 E. Inman St., Cleveland, Tenn.* How much: $8 adults, $6 seniors, $4 children.* Information: 423-339-5745.
Parent Michelle Thompson said she’s excited about the experience for her daughter, Anna, who is home-schooled.
“She’s very excited,” Mrs. Thompson said. “And I just love the exposure she’s getting … seeing a play come together from beginning to end.”
Ms. Bergeron said that excitement is what she loves most about her job.
“Watching these kids grow throughout the week, not just in theater skills but as their confidence soars, is pretty awesome,” she said. “They are doing something most people wouldn’t think possible.”
Tammie Goins is based in Bradley County. E-mail her at tammiegoins@live.com.