February 05, 2020

Member Utilities Bring Live Performance to Local Students

Member Utilities

Members of WPPI Energy are working with the National Theatre for Children (NTC) to educate and inspire students and families in their communities. Professional actors from the NTC will visit local elementary schools this school year to perform “Showdown at Conservation Canyon,” sparking conversations in classrooms on electrical safety and conservation. The program will focus on:

• How energy and electricity are made
• The uses of energy
• Ways in which energy is wasted
• How to conserve energy and electricity

“We are looking forward to partnering with NTC and our members’ local schools to provide this opportunity,” said Kelly Davis with WPPI Energy. “It is great to help member utilities give back to their communities in a way that helps students understand how they can make a difference in energy conservation.”

The live program revolves around Sheriff Carrie Gooper, who learns that the residents of Dodge Ball City have been wasting energy. With the help of student volunteers, as well as colorful characters like notorious outlaw Ron of the Cons, Carrie sets off to learn about energy and electricity and restore peace to Dodge Ball City.

In addition to a live performance, the program includes digital games and activities that align with the important concepts outlined in the show. Utilities belonging to WPPI Energy sponsor the program, making the performance and materials a cost-free supplement to lessons in science, literacy and the arts.

“Live theatre is a great way to educate,” says NTC president and founder Ward Eames. “The show goes beyond reading or other more passive methods of engaging kids. The children get to watch a story unfold right before their very eyes, with the two actors playing all sorts of characters. We don’t lose the kids’ attention for a minute, because they get to respond and interact with the show. It really sticks with them.”