Brianna and Room 315 Two members of Improbable Players performed on January 6th for our student body...Seeing Amie, and Adam looking young, beautiful, and healthy one would never know they were recovering addicts. Some topics they acted out were getting clean and having a relapse. They each had their addictions of choice. Creative props were used in really clever ways.
Amie portrayed a housewife who could not make it through the day without a drink. She hides booze in closets and other places.When her husband came home from work she would be wasted.He wanted to support her and suggested to go for help. While watching this stage presentation I had flashbacks from my childhood.
We were able to ask questions at the end of the play. This was very informal and several students raised their hand. The two Players stayed for lunch. Amie sat at my table and was very approachable. We talked about life, drugs, alcohol, and getting sober. Amie said she had just gotten married and her husband is very supportive. I agreed with her that a supportive person can help to guide you and give strength when you need it. Amie lives in Boston. She has been on some commercials, done modeling and continues to act.
This program was enlightening and hit home for many of the kids at the Academy. Angie’s Reflection I would like to say that the Improbable Players did a terrific job with their play. We were once again very happy to welcome them to our school. I personally think that this show will help influence kids that are taking drugs and alcohol in a positive way. I learned a few things from the play that I could use to help a certain member of my family. I also enjoyed how they used different masks to show different feelings. You could see that people that do drugs are not hurting anyone but themselves. Here is an example of what you might say to someone who is using. I would say, “Please don’t do drugs or drink it’s very bad for you. It eats up your liver. Drugs will also take away your brain cells, and make you really skinny.”
In the play there was a part when a boyfriend and a girlfriend - she was an alcoholic - were always arguing. Sometimes people who drink change and become fighters. This behavior can be dangerous and even land you in jail. I don’t think that is good for a relationship.
It was clear to see that there were some kids who took it serious and some who need more plays like this.
from the Chicopee Academy Newsletter February 2010 Grant funding from the Chicopee Cultural Council, a part of the Massachusetts Cultural Council, made it possible for the Chicopee Academy to host the Improbable Players.Their scenes got the students to think about the influence of substance abuse on their life, their family members and the community as a whole.The inspiration from the performance prompted the students to write their own reaction responses.