We all know the moment when a child reaches into box full of toys. They don't discriminate where they come from, or how expensive each one is. They just choose the one that sparks their imagination, and start to play.
ONCE UPON A TIME is a project series that explores the child's perspective.
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The project draws from the vast tradition of classical art song written for and about children, spanning two centuries and encompassing five languages. In order to simulate the universally-known pastime of play, we employ the use of imaginative theatrical devices such as puppetry, mask-work, pantomime, props, choreography, and stylized movement in performance.
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ONCE UPON A TIME has been enjoyed by kids aged 1 to 100. Originally conceived for live performance, we have expanded our project to exist in three iterations: live outdoor performance, film streaming, and virtual learning modules.
WHAT ARE VIRTUAL LEARNING MODULES?
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Virtual Learning Modules are online resource packages available for purchase, intended for educators, parents, or fans looking to deepen their experience with our program after the curtain goes down.
Each Virtual Learning Module includes access to one high-quality film that represents a portion of our ONCE UPON A TIME series, and a treasure trove of supplementary materials and activities made to fit the content of each film. Individual portions of this package can also be purchased à la carte.
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Learning can be difficult after many hours in front of a screen. In order to prioritize the mental and physical health of our learners, our films are 10-15 minutes in length, and our supplementary materials prioritize sensory experience, mindfulness, and active engagement. We want our learners to be energized and restored by our content, all while deepening their knowledge of important concepts.
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HOW DO THEY WORK?
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Modules are divided into six categories, and in a range of levels, subjects, and age groups.
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Our modules are meant to be revisited. If you liked a certain activity and want to learn more, contact us and we'll guide you through the next step. Read though our category descriptions below.
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action-based imagination and improvisation activities
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improvisational and theater games
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imagination activities based on songs, characters, and stories
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reenactment of stories and theatrical devices
PLAY
activities and discussion topics to facilitate creative links between music, life, and a variety of other subjects
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creative writing exercise based on story themes
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class/chatroom collage
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cross-curriculum connections with History, English, Science, Art, foreign languages, and more
CONNECT
movement-based activities and choreography
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learn the choreography of a song
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improvisational movement activities
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learn about the elements and styles of dance and their connection to music
DANCE
hands-on activities and take-home crafts/artwork
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CREATE
informational handouts, quizzes, and activities on the history and relevance of presented concepts
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THINK
mindfulness and meditative exercises
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activities addressing screen fatigue
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video-led meditations exploring content themes
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music-based mindfulness exercises
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"how to listen to music" discussion topics
REST
For a complete sample of each module, including repertoire, subject matter, performance outlines, category descriptions and more, click here:
MODULE: "NIGHT"
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A high-quality film and virtual learning module in collaboration with local partners
Releases October 2020
OVERALLS @ MHT: BIRD SONGS
A live outdoor performance in collaboration with Market House Theatre in Paducah, KY
Coming September 2020
MODULE: "THE MERMAID PROJECT"
A high-quality film and virtual learning module in collaboration with a team of artists
Releases November 2020
Includes one school year's worth of:
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Access to 10-15 minute film
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Access to 1 Module Category of your choice
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Access to 1 Learning Level of your choice
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Options for downloadable or delivered craft kits according to category
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Pricing and packaging subject to change
Includes limited screening of:
Includes one school year's worth of:
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Access to 10-15 minute film
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Access to 1-3 Module Categories of your choosing
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Access to 1 or more Level(s)
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Downloadable or delivered craft kits
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Pricing and packaging subject to change
Includes one school year's worth of:
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Access to 10-15 minute film
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Access to all 6 Module Categories
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Access to 1 or more Learning Level(s)
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Downloadable or delivered Craft kits
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Live virtual sessions
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Options for entire grades, schools, and school systems
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Options for more than one module
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Pricing and packaging subject to change
Opera in Overalls has launched a kickstarter campaign for ONCE UPON A TIME. To read more about the campaign, and our vision for The Play Fund, click here:
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