User Name
Valerie Bourne
Name
Valerie Bourne
Member Since
March 26, 2010
Bio
I teach in a small rural elementary/middle grades charter school. As the "performing arts" instructor, I have worked in each classroom producing/directing short plays, taught creative ballet in the after-school program, written scripts and taught writing skills to students, and guided classroom teachers through the maze of tasks to get from audition to final show. I also produce and direct the annual school play. I've been a theater artist in this region for over 25 years, directed over 20 shows for the Humboldt Light Opera Company, and it's children's company, KidCo. At Jacoby Creek School, I've been funded by the California State program ArtsWork, teaching drama and performance skills in every classroom.
Educational Background
Originally a professional child actress in Los Angeles, she received her BA degree in playwriting and directing at UC Irvine and an MA in directing and acting at Humboldt State.
Number of years teaching
30
Favorite Playwright
Favorite theatrical moment
The opening sequence of Sweeney Todd, the Broadway touring version back in god knows when.
Sondheim or Rodgers and Hammerstein?
Sondheim
Interests
I love to look at art and read about art history,and I love to travel, especially to Europe. Part of my current job involves working with mildly at risk primary grade children, so I find myself delving more and more into psychology. I also enjoy writing journals and making books, literally MAKING books, which I then take with me on my travels to European destinations and fill up with sketches and watercolors. Lots o' fun.
Something you should know about me!
I'm very passionate about a child's need to express their world view in a creative way,it is an important way they make sense of what life presents. It's the role of the adults in their lives to give them that opportunity.
I like to perform, too!
Accomplishments
Received a major grant from the state of California to teach and produce plays in our school, and subsequently receive funding annually to direct/produce school plays. Was a founding member/choreographer of a local modern dance company, and ran my own business teaching creative ballet. Was director and choreographer for our area's community musical theater company, which led to a post as artistic director. Developed that company's children theater annex and taught it's teen level classes.
Upcoming Projects
Just finished a school play. Right now I'm making a wedding dress for my daughter.
School/Organization Name
Jacoby Creek Elementary Charter School
Shows You've Worked On
as director, about 10, plus Peter Pan, Sound of Music, Cinderella, 1776, South Pacific, Annie Get Your Gun, and more....
Favorite Websites
Valerie Bourne
Actor, Choreographer, Costume Designer, Dance Teacher, Director, Theatre Teacher
California