Alta Vista Elementary students were treated to a weeklong visit from Australian performing artist Paul Taylor, who shared Australian and Aboriginal Australian culture through a number of fun games and activities.
Taylor, who describes himself as a storyteller, didgeridoo player and traveler, worked in Alta Vista’s art, music and P.E. classes to introduce the students to many aspects of Australian history, art, music and dance.
Liane McIlwaine, a resource room teacher at Alta Vista, said Taylor was invited to the school to give students an enriching exposure to another culture.
“Paul taught them about how history plays out and impacts our everyday lives,” McIlwaine said. “He showed students how music, art, P.E. and academics can cross-inform and enhance performance in each area, respectively.”
During Taylor’s time there, students made didgeridoos, bullroarers and boomerangs. They also participated in dances and even a makeshift game of cricket.
“The students had smiles on their faces, enjoyed learning new dances and are still singing the songs he taught them,” McIlwaine said.
At the end of Taylor’s visit, students performed these dances for the entire school and for the proud parents that joined the audience.
McIlwaine said the visit was funded by the Laramie County School District 1 Curriculum and Innovative Program Council, the Alta Vista Parent-Teacher Organization and by private donors.
“The students enjoyed the visit with Paul and loved his willingness to share his culture.” -Photos & text by Brad White
