Hope Academy’s 2008 showcase performance of “Myths, Fables and Realities” was presented at the Kelly-Strayhorn Theater on Sat., May 31 and Sun., June 1. Over forty students, from 7-18 years old, hit the stage and dazzled the audience with their singing, dancing and acting.

Two Greek myths were turned into modern dance pieces by teaching artist and choreographer Staycee Pearl; the younger students took part in Cupid and Psyche, while the older students tackled the more complex Orpheus and Euridyce. The Jungle Book fable transformed the little ones into monkeys, tigers, panthers, vultures, elephants and a 25’ long snake. Scenes from Robert Fulghum’s “All I Really Needed to Know I Learned in Kindergarten” allowed the teens to explore more adult themes and realities.

Thank you to everyone who helped throughout the year, and to all the members who attended the performance. Videos of the Greek myth dance pieces can be viewed at www.YouTube.com/HopeAcademy.