iChoose, created by ICAP, is an interactive multimedia production launched to introduce high school students to the Victory Over Violence (VOV) program. The VOV program is a youth-led education and engagement initiative to help young people identify and counteract the root causes of violence. VOV began in 1999 in response to the growing concerns over youth-related violence in the United States such as the Columbine shootings in Littleton, Colorado.
The iChoose production consists of three parts:
I. Showing the VOV Exhibition
II. Performing the iChoose Mini-Musical
III. Facilitating Wrap-Up Dialogues
Part One: THE EXHIBITION
The iChoose production begins with a showing of the VOV exhibition. The major themes of the exhibition include (1) understanding the relationship between passive violence and physical violence, (2) the need for each person to take responsibility for the violence in their environment and (3) the value of dialogue.
We suggest scheduling enough viewing time for students to digest the content and stimulate meaningful discussions among fellow students and teachers. If desired, the exhibition could be set up one or more days in advance of the iChoose mini-musical performance (part two) to maximize flexibility in scheduling viewing times. If time is limited, the student viewing of the exhibition can also be scheduled to occur just before the start of or immediately following the performance.
Part Two: THE SHOW
After viewing the exhibition, students will watch the twenty minute iChoose mini-musical in their school theatre or auditorium . By comparing the challenges faced by modern teenagers to the struggles of internationally recognized peacemakers, iChoose helps young people understand the value of choosing nonviolent solutions to the problems they face in daily life. Furthermore, by choosing thoughts, words and actions that promote hope and dignity for themselves and others, iChoose encourages today’s teenagers to continue the legacy of international leaders for peace by treating the people in their own homes, schools and communities with respect.
Part Three: THE DIALOGUE
After the show, the iChoose cast and crew will either lead a general discussion with the entire audience of students or facilitate small break out discussion groups within the performance space.
