In the Community
Metro Theater Company is committed not only to creating meaningful opportunities for youth in our community to see their stories reflected on our stage, but also to ensuring that that work is done in partnership with our community. The many activities surrounding Ghost are a testament to that commitment – and to the powerful connections that can be made as a result of that work. I am deeply humbled by all the organizations and individuals who have gone on this journey with us with Ghost – from all of us at Metro, THANK YOU!
–– Joe Gfaller, Managing Director
Matthew Carter Visits
Ferguson-Florissant School District
On February 3 and 4, Matthew Carter, the real-life inspiration for the title character of Ghost, talked about his life changing experiences with students at eight schools in the Ferguson-Florissant School District. Albert Harrold, Ferguson-Florissant School District's Family And Community Engagement Director, shared, "Matthew Carter was a delight to have in the Ferguson Florissant School District. His story of heartbreak, courage, and perseverance is one that is relatable to me as well as to our students. His story captivated each of the 1,200 students from third through eighth grade."
Ghost Post-Show Panel Discussions
On February 2, Matthew Carter, Paralympian and Washington University in St. Louis professor Kerri Morgan, Ghost Director Jacqueline Thompson, and Metro Theater Company's Artistic Director Julia Flood participated in a panel discussion which addressed overcoming obstacles in life, teamwork, and channeling a personal inner drive to reach one's dreams. Metro Theater Company Producing Associate John Wolbers said, "It was so inspiring to hear remarkable stories from real-life superheroes who are navigating great obstacles to achieve their dreams and the artists bringing those stories to the stage. It was profoundly impactful."
On February 9, we presented a panel discussion moderated by Julius B. Anthony, President of St. Louis Black Authors of Children's Literature. Panelists included Sidney Keys III and Winnie Caldwell, co-founders of Books N Bros LLC; Pam Washington Littleton of Jack and Jill of America—St. Louis Chapter; Rhema Anazonwu, Program Manager of We Stories; and Jeffrey Blair, co-founder of Eyeseeme African American Children’s Bookstore. The panel discussed literacy, representations, and the resources available in our community that connect young audiences to literature that makes them feel seen. Metro Theater Company Artistic Director Julia Flood said, "I loved listening to Sidney talking about Books N Bros and what reading means to him. It really resonated with what Jason Reynolds has said about why he writes for young people. Great books open up the world."
Our Lady of Guadalupe School
Jarris L. Williams (Castle Cranshaw, a.k.a. ‘Ghost’) visited Our Lady of Guadalupe School and answered thoughtful questions from middle school and high school students who saw the production. Jarris grew up a few blocks away from this school!