Bringing storytelling to life for over 560 young people in New York

Stories have the power to teach and connect. With support from theatre works!, 563 children attended Ananse and the Pot of Stories by The Shadow Box Theatre Company in Brooklyn, New York, introducing hundreds of young people to live theatre through an engaging retelling of traditional West African folklore. For 40% of those attending, it was their first experience of live theatre.

The production encouraged children to think beyond the performance itself. Students shared vox pops and reflected on honesty, kindness and making good choices, taking away lessons they could immediately apply to everyday life.

Among the comments shared were:

‘Tell the truth when you need help.’

‘If you need help, tell an adult.’

‘I learned to not be greedy.’

‘You should never lie to people.’

Teachers also recognised the educational value of the production. One teacher explained that their students left with a stronger understanding of trust and honesty through the show's social and emotional learning themes, while another highlighted how the production supported bilingual learners by exposing children to English through live performance.

The performance also connected directly with classroom learning. Students had already been studying Ananse stories and African folklore, allowing them to make meaningful links between what they had learned in school and what they experienced on stage.

Another teacher reflected on the cultural value of the experience:

‘It's a good introduction to African culture and folktales... it's just so catchy, I like how it was interactive.’

Perhaps one of the most memorable moments came when children were invited onto the stage to participate and we see this time and again when theatre companies deliver inclusive and immersive theatre designed for children and young people specifically. As one teacher put it, ‘they're never going to forget it... they're going to talk about it forever.’

That is exactly why theatre works! exists. Access to live performance isn't simply about watching a show. It's about creating experiences that stay with children long after they return to the classroom, building confidence, curiosity and a lifelong relationship with the arts.

With continued support, even more young people can experience moments they'll remember for years to come.

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