Storycatchers Theatre Presents Street Life Stories

Storycatchers Theatre is a youth development arts organization that prepares young people to make thoughtful life choices through the process of writing, producing, and performing original musical theatre inspired by personal stories. In November 2013, Storycatchers Theatre received a NATIONAL ARTS & HUMANITIES YOUTH PROGRAM AWARD from the President's Committee on the Arts & Humanities, in recognition of its work with detained and incarcerated youth.

"Beginning in June 2014, Storycatchers began implementing a pilot program to engage recently released juveniles in a creative exploration of the challenges they face when they return to their homes and communities. Storycatchers theatre uses arts to guide the court-involved adolescents in an exploration of the root causes and long-term consequences of their behaviors. The act of using their personal stories to create a work of art cultivates pride and increased self-esteem in these adolescents, who are often able to use the creative process to better understand and release their personal pain."

A group of Chicago south side young men and women, who wanted to make a difference in thier lives joined Storycatchers Theatre, for a 16-week program to create thier play, "Struggling In These Streets."  A standing room only read aloud of the play's progress, was held during July, at Mt. Hermon Missionary Baptist Church, 7848 S. Normal, Chicago, Illinois 60620.

Stay on the lookout for their upcoming final performances, to be held in various neighborhood venues (schools, churchs, community centers), beginning mid-August through mid-September. This summer program outcome is clearly a tool that educators, mentors and counselors will find useful. The play is a wake up call, adjustment and inspiration for young and old. You won't want to miss Act. One!