In Video: CPE Grade 5 class’ performance of The Salmon Connection

Columbia Park Elementary School’s Grade 5 class put on a surprisingly good play at the Performing Art Centre on Thursday night. Here they take a bow as teacher Susan Leach (right) applauds their performance. David F. Rooney photo

By David F. Rooney

Columbia Park Elementary School’s Grade 5 class put on a surprisingly good play at the Performing Art Centre on Thursday night.

The Salmon Connection was the culmination of a year-longĀ  project that sought to educate the children in Sue Leach’s class bout the vital role salmon play in the human and natural environment in BC.

The kids had a very tough dress rehearsal on Tuesday and struggled to understand the importance of ensuring they spoke loudly enough to be heard beyond their immediate vicinity. They persevered and put on a remarkably good show.

Jim Redding, the school district’s elementary music teacher, and Ms. Leach helped the students learn songs and develop their acting skills for their year-end presentation. An ArtStarts grant enabled local artist Tina Lindegaard to work with Ms. Leach and her class to create a wide variety of art pieces throughout the year as they focused their studies on salmon.

If you missed the presentation you can activate the YouTube player below to watch their 41-minute play now: