Behind-the-scenes

IRONWOOD — Kindergarten students at Sleight Elementary School were able to see the behind-the-scenes action that takes place at the Historic Ironwood Theatre on May 16.

More than 60 students toured the theater throughout the day, and according to Bruce Greenhill, managing director for the theater, the kids had fun.

“It was just a wonderful opportunity for us to let the kids experience the theater,” Greenhill said. “We had over 20 students in the morning and over 40 that afternoon, and they had fun.”

The students were split into three groups during the tour, and were able to experience three of the numerous aspects of what takes place at the theater.

The first group was able to be on stage as performers,the second group was in the booth, handling the technical side, and the third and final group played the organ.

“It was great to see those kids standing on the stage with the bright lights on their faces,” Greenhill said. “The students in the booth got to turn on the lights and announce their friends and the third group played the organ next to the stage. They all rotated and got to see what it was like.”

After the tour, students went to the Downtown Art Place next door, where they made hand puppets and performed a puppet theater.

“It was a great co-op effort between the theater and DAP,” Greenhill said. “We were thrilled to be able to work with our friends during this event.”

Greenhill said the theater is “always willing” to do tours for local students, because of the inspiration that may come to the students.

“We’re happy to do tours, and it’s fun for us and the students,” Greenhill said. “Who knows? Maybe one of those kids will be inspired to go on the stage, work in the tech booth or get involved in some other aspect of the performing arts. This is a great way to expose kids to other options.”

For more information, contact the Historic Ironwood Theatre at 906-932-0618 or at ironwoodtheatre.net, or call the Ironwood Area School District at 906-932-0932.