I had a great time at Magee Middle School on March 5! Students sang, played percussion instruments, and performed as part of "Anansi and Turtle" and "Gray Eagle Catches the Sun." After the performance for around 300 fifth and sixth graders, third and fourth graders were bussed over for a second program.
Thanks to Valerie Jones and the Mississippi Arts Commission for making the fun possible, and to Valerie for the hospitality, the extra work getting buses for students, and the snacks! We also enjoyed visiting with school librarian Diane Butler. The library burned down this year, but she is staying upbeat, cheerful, and creative in providing books and stories for her students.
In the story of Anansi, a folktale from Africa, the little spider learns the true meaning of friendship. Gray Eagle, in catching the sun, learns the importance of sharing and being humble. Both stories involve the main character being taught a lesson through his own actions and those of his friends. In this vein, I sang "What Can One Little Person Do" "Hello to You" and other songs concerned with friendship and caring for others. My hammered dulcimer and styrofoam ice chest guitar playing were accompanied by volunteer student bands. Let me tell you, Magee students have rhythm!
It is interesting to me to see how eager children are to come up on stage to play an instrument, provide sound effects, or play the parts of characters. In fact, I often bemoan the fact that many more hands go up than I can call on. What happens to us by the time we're adults? I think we get WAY too concerned with what others might think. There's a lesson for all of us grown-ups here: maybe we could learn to let go and relax into the moment, and just have fun with it. Just a thought!
If you're ever in Magee, don't miss eating at Zip's, home of the Zip Burger. Wow! We were so glad we heard about this place in time for dinner. Best hamburger and fries I've ever had anywhere!
