Children Will Listen (2004)

The DC public school system struggles with limited resources and overcrowded classrooms. Despite living near the Kennedy Center, many DC students have never experienced live theater. *Children Will Listen* documents how dedicated artists, teachers, and college students created a remarkable program to change that. The film follows 140 students from seven DC schools as they prepare for the Kennedy Center's tribute to Stephen Sondheim with their production of *Into the Woods*, Jr. This offers the students a unique chance to learn about theater both in school and on stage. Under the guidance of four professional artists, they learn the history and techniques of costume design, set construction, and acting while participating in every aspect of the show. A second group of students documents their journey on film with their professor, Charlene Gilbert.