Important messages about tough issues -
youth targeting other youth through the performing arts.
December 09, 2011
By Ashley Rhodebeck, staff writer for Kane County Chronicle - (arhodebeck@shawmedia.com)
The MWAH! troupe members in a show of support for one another on the
playground behind Wallace Grade School near Ottawa, Illinois on October 11, 2011.
(photo by Jeremy Reed of Impact Life Photography)
ST. CHARLES — Sometimes important messages targeted to teens and children aren't best told by adults.
Tonight, youths will take on topics such as teen suicide, abusive relationships and drunken driving during a free 90-minute presentation set to begin at 7 p.m. in the Haines Middle School cafeteria at 305 S. Ninth St.
The young adults, ages 11-20, are part of the MWAH! Performing Arts Troupe, which combines real-life drama with contemporary music and audience interaction.
The ensemble addresses today’s youth and their families and the importance of making right choices. MWAH! stands for 'Messages Which Are Hopeful!'
Sarah Saltiel, a performer and junior at Hinsdale Central High School, said she had never seen or heard of a show like this. Usually, the troupe performer said, middle-age adults or cops warn kids about topics the ensemble addresses.
"It's not real," she said.
But when kids talk to other kids, the message becomes more relatable, she and fellow performer Rob Delgado said.
"We're doing it in our own special way," Delgado, a Yorkville High School sophomore, said. "I just think kids listen to kids more than they listen to adults."
Delgado and Saltiel were among the troupe members who met with Kassi Wagner, whose brother Dylan committed suicide in April 2010. Talking with her helped them better portray their piece about suicide and understand how painful it can be for families, they said.
"It was very emotional," Delgado said of talking with Wagner.
Wagner is expected to participate in tonight's event.
MWAH!, a nonprofit organization, is affiliated with Kids Do Count Inc. and the Chicago Area Project, a grassroots service and advocacy program. Troupe members attend nine schools and live in eight cities, primarily Aurora, Yorkville, Naperville and Warrenville.
Go to www.mwah.net for information or call (630) 993-0003.