ISTA ENSEMBLE EXPERIENCE
April 19th-21st, 2024 at Le Jardin Academy
What is the ISTA Ensemble Experience?
ISTA is a UK based charity, founded in 1978 providing transformative learning experiences for educators and young people worldwide. We create communities of learning, working closely with over 240 member schools and in partnership with a diverse range of educational and cultural settings around the world.
We use the ISTA Ensemble method, a collaborative approach to learning, community building and story-based inquiry, using story as a way to understand the world and as a tool for change. We believe in the unique power of theatre and the arts to connect, develop, transform and empower people to become active members and change makers in their own communities and the world.
Le Jardin Academy is honored to host the first ISTA ensemble experience in Hawaii which offers a unique fusion of theater skills and place-based storytelling centered around Kawainui and the ancestors, both human and non-human, who have cared for this community.
Beyond the artistic exploration, all participants will actively engage in restoration work, connecting with the ʻāina (land) and embodying the festival's theme of “tuning into community.” In Hawaii, community refers to both humans and non-humans, and hana pono (good work) is what holds a community together.
Visiting Artists
Malina Patel
Malina Patel, an ISTA Artist and Board Member, serves as an IB DP Theatre Teacher. With a wealth of experience as a professional stage manager, drama teacher, writer, director, and performer, she embodies a commitment to learning and social justice advocacy.
R. Kevin Garcia Doyle
R. Kevin Garcia Doyle serves as Le Jardin Academy's high school Theatre Teacher and is a distinguished director, actor, and writer. With a wealth of experience, Mr. Doyle has been prominently featured in various Improv shows and live performances, bringing a wealth of expertise to our festival.
Anne Yoshida
Anne Yoshida, a dynamic force in the world of performing arts, was born and raised on the Windward side. She demonstrates her versatility through theater performances and as a skilled dancer with the I'm A Bright Kid Foundation and Manoa Valley Theater on Oahu. Additionally, Anne brings experience as a choreographer, instructor, and prop/costume designer to her impressive repertoire and prides herself in encouraging kids to “tell the story.”.
Walt Gaines
Walt Gaines has been a Theater Teacher at Le Jardin Academy for 9 years. In addition to his work with students Walt is an accomplished actor, playwright, director of physical theater productions. Prior to working at LJA Walt taught English and Theater in several cities worldwide and likes to explore the relationship between devised theater, physical comedy, and the exploration of the human condition.
The Basics
Who: Any high school students who register!
Where: Le Jardin Academy, 917 Kalanianaole Highway Kailua, Hawaii 96734 United States
When: April 19th-21st, 2024 (registration closes on April 10th)
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PLANNED GENERAL ITINERARY (subject to change):
Friday APRIL 19th 2024
4:00pm–5:00pm Event Check In
5:00pm-6:00pm Opening & Welcome @ Kerr (Wang If Raining)
6:00pm-7:00pm ISTA & CGS Welcome Lūʻau
7:00pm-8:00pm Ensemble Work
8:00pm Students dismissed (Return to Host Families)
Saturday APRIL 20th 2024
9:00am Arrival
9:15am Depart for Nā Pōhaku
9:30am-11:30am Nā Pōhaku Cultural Engagement
11:30am Depart Nā Pōhaku for LJA
12:00pm-1:00pm Lunch @ the Wang
1:00pm-3:00pm Ensemble Work
3:00pm-3:30pm Snack Break
3:30pm-5:30pm Ensemble Work
5:30pm-6:00pm Transition to Dinner
6:00pm-7:00pm Dinner
7:00pm-7:30pm Check in with Ensemble
7:30pm Dismissal (Students return to host families)
Sunday APRIL 21st 2024
9:00am Arrival
9:00am–10:30am Ensemble Work
10:30am–10:45am Snack Break
10.45am–12:00pm Ensemble Work
12:00pm-1:00pm Lunch
1:00pm-2:00pm Prep for Celebration
2:00pm-3:00pm Wrap up & Full Group Celebration