The Whole Child Review Issue No. 14, October 2024

Sharing Resources from Children’s Museum of Art and Social Justice

From Page to Stage: KIPP One Students Transform Darryl’s Dream into a Powerful Performance

Meet Darryl, a quiet third grader with big hopes and dreams. He loves writing and wants to share his talents, but his shyness and the teasing from kids about his glasses make it difficult for him to shine. Darryl’s Dream, by the iconic performer Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, is a heartwarming story about finding confidence, facing bullies, and celebrating oneself.

Stephanie Greer and April Montgomery Goble co-directed Darryl’s Dream, transforming this inspiring book into a dynamic performance art play. Through this creative endeavor, the students not only brought the story to life but also explored its themes of self-confidence and resilience. The performance showcased their ability to turn literary characters and messages into a powerful stage experience, celebrating the importance of believing in oneself and embracing one’s unique qualities.

This project highlights the students’ creativity and the value of literature in fostering personal growth and confidence. The transformation of Darryl’s Dream into a performance provided an opportunity for the students to engage deeply with the story’s message and demonstrate their talents in a meaningful way.