Art and Drama

The Play's the Thing – Hamlet

Victoria ("Mrs. Z") Kristy might differ with Hamlet's assessment of the theater. As the creative tour de force behind Playmakers, a drama program for all children K-8 at Visitation Catholic School, the arts and community-building is "the thing". Mrs. Z, a statuesque and vibrant woman whose passion for the arts is deeper and broader than her spectacular smile, has been directing and producing theatrical productions in schools and community centers for more than 30 years.

Mrs. Z has seen that involvement in theater has changed and enhanced lives and, in the process, has built community.

Theater is important, says Mrs. Z. It requires team work, memory work, and commitment. And with the work, children are instilled with gifts of poise and self-confidence. "Theater," says Mrs. Z, "lets children shine."

Throughout the years, Mrs. Z has worked with all kinds of children. She can tell you of her many successes. One shy student who had social problems in the early grades, slowly gained in confidence after performing. She learned to speak out and be comfortable with herself in theater. She blossomed from a loner to someone who gained peer respect and was elected a class officer in the 8th grade.