For 14 years, the Cultural Experience Project (CEP), through its venue partnerships, has provided learning experiences to nearly every Atlanta Public Schools (APS) student. These cultural experiences complement students’ classroom lessons while also challenging students’ beliefs and exposing them to new perspectives that often broaden their understanding of the world.
These inspiring encounters are much like those experienced by the characters in True Colors Theatre Company’s production of “School Girls; or, the African Mean Girls Play”.
Set in 1986 Ghana, the play focuses on issues that teenagers face around the globe. It is a fearless comedy that confronts one’s concepts of self-esteem and beauty. The plot centers on Paulina, the reigning queen bee of the all-girls Aburi Boarding School, who has her sights set on winning the Miss Ghana Pageant; and, ultimately, the Miss Global Universe Pageant.
However, when Erica, an American transfer student, arrives and begins to threaten Paulina’s position, the power struggle begins. Colorism, classism, body shaming and more play a role in the skirmishes that ensue.
APS students will be able to relate with and learn from the characters in this play, as they represent a broad spectrum of challenges teenagers (and adults) face around the world.
Students will experience this production later this month along with CEP trips with Threepeat Teach Block Art and the King Center.
Continue to follow us this year as we make good on our promise to provide all Atlanta Public Schools students access to a cultural experience — One grade. One Venue. Guaranteed.