Jennifer Bowers

Bowers’ creative project idea, “Performance Space,” involves providing dedicated performance space for students at Colquitt County High School. Although there is an auditorium in the community that the school currently shares with local residents, students do not have access to the light and sound booths, and the school’s drama classroom does not have curtains or technical equipment. The Voya grant will help fund the installation of a stage curtain, stage lighting and sound equipment to create a functional, dedicated space for student performances. This project will provide students with not only an official stage, but also hands-on experience in technical theatre, allowing them to learn lighting design, sound design and stage management — essential skills for future careers in the arts. According to Bowers, this project will enhance performance opportunities, develop technical theater skills, foster creativity and confidence, and provide equitable access to theatre education while growing the performing arts program because it will allow for opportunities beyond performances.