For many children, summer camps provide a chance to explore their interests, build confidence, and develop new skills. This summer, Basin Theatre Works offered young performers the opportunity to do just that through its production of Alice in Wonderland Jr., directed by UTPB sophomore Ameri Clark.
Ameri’s lifelong passion for theater inspired her to begin working with Basin Theatre Works. During the two-week camp, students immersed themselves in learning, rehearsing, and preparing a final performance that showcased the talents they developed throughout the program. Producing a full theatrical performance in such a short timeframe presented challenges, but Ameri embraced the experience with enthusiasm and determination.
“There were most definitely hardships throughout the process of putting the production together, but it was nothing I couldn’t handle,” Ameri said. “There was so much to put together in very little time, and for my students to pull off my vision in nine rehearsal days made my heart beam with pride.”
Ameri, a childhood education major, credits her previous internship with the Education Foundation at Ector County ISD for helping prepare her for the role. Through that experience, she developed strong leadership skills, learned how to effectively work with groups of children, and found opportunities to foster creativity; skills that translated seamlessly into directing a theater production.
“I learned that leadership was essential in both my internship and my Basin Theatre Works directing
job,” said Ameri. “In both settings, I was responsible for children and their safety, as well as teaching them new things. Whether it was in the academic setting or in the creative arts setting, I was in charge of making sure they understood what I was asking and putting their knowledge to the test.”
Her experience with Basin Theatre Works has strengthened her passion for teaching while also opening her eyes to future opportunities in theater arts. By combining her love of education and the performing arts, Ameri is making a lasting impact on young students and inspiring the next generation of performers.
“From a very young age, theatre has been something that has given me endless joy. Teaching at Basin Theatre Works gives me the opportunity to change and shape children’s confidence, leadership skills, and most importantly teaches them about who they are,” said Ameri.
Through experiences like these, UTPB students continue to apply their classroom learning in meaningful ways, developing the skills and confidence needed to make a difference in their communities.
