Lana's Brag Board
Dear Lana,
I wanted to write to you to thank you for finally putting your stories into a book, so that many more can enjoy the wonderful, imaginative world you have created through your gift. After purchasing your book I could not wait to share it with my students. I thought they would love it and I was absolutely correct. My students range in ages from 7 to 14 and it is a difficult task to find something that interests them all, and after reading only one page of "The Fool and the Storyteller," I knew they were all captivated. They were mesmerized and enchanted from beginning to end. Your stories are refreshing, hopeful and provide fabulous mental images. One student asked me, “How many more stories does she have?” another asked ”Can I be the first to take it home?” and a third, “Will you read another one tomorrow?” Of course I will! Thanks again Lana as my kids and I look forward to the next book.
Sheila Morgan B.Ed M.Ed
A speech by Glenda Sterling
It is my great pleasure to present the Duval Lang Theatre for Young Artists Award. In part because Duv was the first person to hire me in Calgary, in part because he still hired me after I nearly ripped the bottom out of his van during a residency, but mostly because I believe this year's recipient in incredibly deserving of this award.
Some theatre artists write TYA, some direct it. Some perform it, others produce it. Some artists do residency or start drama schools and clubs for the kidlets. The artist who will receive this award tonight has done all of the above. For over 30 years! This artist has touched elementary school students in gymnasiums, High school students across the province, taught and directed at Mount Royal University and the University of Calgary. This multi faceted creator has headlined at Children's Festival's in Calgary, Regina, and Saskatoon, as well as bringing his or her? Unique brand of storytelling for young audiences to England and Wales.
This person's motto is: Never tell a story you don't believe in. Suffice to say I am an enormous fan of this unsung hero. I aint the only one. I will now read you some of what the multiple nominators had to say about this individual...
Lana is an extraordinary teacher passionate, humourous and full of love!
This person.... is generous, sharing with countless children through residencies, AND WILL PROBABLY MAKE COOKIES FOR THE WHOLE SCHOOL! SERIOUSLY!
So many performers dabble in performing for children while honing their craft and waiting for the Big Theatre's to call. But this artist insists is that home is the gymnasium and that children are the VIP audience.
And my favourite, from a former student, now a philosophy major at the U of C. gI was enrolled in the Triangle Theatre School. I was a nervous child, but this teacher had incredible patience with me. To this day I remember the monologue she taught us Puck's final speech from Midsummer Night's Dream. I have been known to use it at parties to impress girls.
She has written all of her own stories. They are a reflection of her values. They cover such diverse topics as bullying, adoption, handicaps, motherhood, and they are a true reflection of her character, faith and sense of humour.
From a teacher who worked with this artist repeatedly over a 30 year career in the school system: In each of our experiences with her, she bubbled over with enthusiasm for the student's ideas and for their courage to express those ideas. Even the most reluctant students found themselves quickly pulled into the excitement she recognized and honoured every attempt to be engaged. ... My opportunities with Lana Skauge will always be a highlight in my thirty plus years of teaching. She had a significant impact on the lives of so many young learners, and she has broadened my view of what education can be.
Ladies and Gentlemen, the recipient of this year's Duval Lang Award, and one of my personal hero's - Lana Skauge.
“It has taken patience and thought.”
“I’m never bored.”
“I really like the play we have created. I think it combines
abstract movement with the story nicely.”
“I had a new perspective of life. Thank you!”
“I was amazed. It made me laugh.”
“What I like is that we don’t have to sit all class reading the
pages of a textbook. I also liked the fact that it is easier to
remember the information acting...can’t wait for the
presentation!”
“I did something new.”
“I have learned so much so far and don’t want to stop.”
“Now I know that when you tell a story, it’s not always a
happy ending. We have to teach others the truth about
Canada’s history because we do not want to repeat
it.....wonderful experience...”
“I like this class because there is more exercise and
movement.”
(comments from an Artist in Residency)
“Thank you Lana! You and Tom inspire me and you were
exactly who I needed to see at this point in life! I am so
grateful to have spent the time with you!”
(R. Parker, Teacher)
“It was my pleasure of being present while you and Tom entertained, awed and wowed, not only our children, but all of the adults present. ….Unfortunately it’s taken me 46 years to discover you but now I can follow your work and tell everyone I meet how incredible you are.”
(K. Adler, Ed Assistant)
“All the children and staff enjoyed the performances immensely. Your enthusiasm, actions, beautiful lyrics and music were wonderful!”
(S. McKenzie, VP)