In 2017, Local Theater Company produced the premiere Home in the Heart: An Adaptation for Students of Sandra Cisneros's "The House on Mango Street" at Boulder Public Library’s Canyon Theater. The production was part of the theater company's Literature Out Loud theater literacy program.
Each performance included:
Introduction to the Boulder Public Library
Upon arrival, the students were taken on a tour of the library, highlighting the resources and programs available specifically for teens.
Pre-show Discussion
Upon entering the Canyon Theater, students were introduced to the book, author and themes to be explored, followed by a discussion of live theater and the power of the audience.
Performance
45-minute live performance of Home in the Heart: An Adaptation for Students of Sandra Cisneros's "The House on Mango Street".
Post-show Conversation
A discussion and poetry writing activity designed to increase comprehension of the book’s themes and inspire students to recognize a personal connection to the story. Student volunteers were encouraged to share their poems on stage. The program concluded with a question and answer session with the actor. This session provided students with insights into the craft of theater and the discipline and training needed to pursue a career. In addition, students were curious to learn about the connection between the book’s subject matter and the actor’s personal experience.
Teacher Resource Materials
Each participating teacher received a resource guide that includes introductory information about the book performed, as well as discussion, writing and theater activities to be used in the classroom before and after the performance.
Book your school group today... for free!
The pilot of Literature Out Loud was offered at no cost to the schools.
Why “The House on Mango Street”?
It directly addresses the experiences of Latino students in BVSD (approximately 28.5%).
- It is a book that members of our Teacher Advisory Committee are either currently teaching or are interested in adding to their curriculum.
- Cisneros’ mastery of poetic language in both English and Spanish, is simultaneously accessible to students reading below grade-level, and heightened enough to engage advanced readers.
- It ignites thought and conversation in all audiences on the subjects of identity and exclusion.
Adapted from THE HOUSE ON MANGO STREET. Copyright © 1984 by Sandra Cisneros. Published by Vintage Books, a division of Penguin Random House, New York, and in hardcover by Alfred A. Knopf in 1994. By permission of Susan Bergholz Literary Services, New York. All rights reserved.
Home in the Heart: An Adaptation for Students of Sandra Cisneros's "The House on Mango Street"
Canyon Theater
Boulder Public Library
Public Performance
Wednesday, February 8 at 6pm
School Performances
Wednesday, February 1 at 10am
Thursday, February 2 at 10am
Friday, February 3 at 10am
Wednesday, February 8 at 10am
Thursday, February 9 at 10am
Friday, February 10 at 10am
