In fourth grade, students enter the world of Greek mythology and explore its cautionary lessons as part of their study of this ancient civilization.

They brought it all to life in the annual play this week, using frozen poses, known as tableaux, to depict the journeys of Orpheus, Icarus, and Arachne, and their struggles with human limitations, pride, and ambition.

"Every story has a meaning," said fourth grade teacher Sarah Pacifico. "We play a part in passing it along across the generations."
 
In taking a student-centered approach, theatre movement arts teacher Sarah Gordin invited the students to help write the play's script and create the shapes for the tableaux. 

"The students took real ownership of the process," said Gordin. "Many students signed up for lunchtime and recess playwriting meetings and rehearsals, and really thought about the way the Gods and mortals would respond to the stories. The results were brilliant and students were incredibly proud of what they created and shared with the GFS community.

Greek pottery adorned the stage to signify its role in storytelling, and was the focus, along with Greek architecture and other forms of art, of several museum trips the students took over the past several months. 

Check out more scenes from the all-student 4th grade production!