These precious "peas in a pod" are members of the elementary chorus performing in Chandler's production "Seeds and Stones" Saturday, Nov. 8 at 7 p.m. at Chandler Music Hall in Randolph. Martha 1 of 1

Debuts at Chandler November 8  

"Seeds and Stones," featuring original songs, music and choreography created by Patty Akley Warlick and Spencer Lewis, and performed by 30 area youth ages 6-19, will make its debut Saturday, Nov. 8 at 7 p.m. on the stage of Randolph’s Chandler Music Hall.

Seeds of change. Seeds of possibility. Seeds of "positivity." This fall, 30 students from Bethel, Braintree, Randolph, Randolph Center, Stockbridge, Montpelier, South Royalton and West Brookfield have explored these themes twice a week with song, music and dance at Chandler. As musical directors, Warlick and Lewis have worked in collaboration to provide songs, choreography, and instruction in the creation of a performance.

For the past six months, the two have met to write music that offers a voice of peace and hope for the community, as it works to heal from some of the past year’s challenges. The music and lyrics were designed to be easily sung by people of all ages and meant to be an opportunity for families to connect on a creative level. With the help of a teen chorus, harmonies have been developed in some of the songs that add texture and depth to the clear voices of youth. Many of the songs have been choreographed with Warlick’s signature expressive movements that allow the students to be more deeply engaged with the music.

The students have benefited from this process on many levels. They have strengthened their group singing skills, have learned to blend harmonies and find their own "voice" and to add expression to their vocals, and have learned how to use movement to communicate the desired message to their audience. For some, this is their first experience in a theater and performing on stage. Cast members have been given the opportunity to learn about theater etiquette, safety rules on and off stage, as well as how the use of special lighting and sound devices can enhance a performance.

Students have also had the unique opportunity to work with professional musicians.

Warlick is a dance movement therapist and long-time instructor of dance and voice in central Vermont. She is an advocate for youth and has taken her skills into many area schools as an artist in residence.

Lewis is one of Vermont’s most prolific singer-songwriters, a master guitar and violin instrumentalist, and recording artist with 20 CDs to his credit. He is also an avid stonewall builder and his knowledge of this timeless tradition is woven into song and stories throughout this production, along with Warlick’s creative interpretations set in motion.

Tickets may be purchased in advance by calling 728-6464 between 3-6 p.m. weekdays or at tickets@chandler-arts.org.

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