Mendota students receive valuable performance tips during workshop with Step Afrika! artists

On Thursday morning, Feb. 5, about 120 students from Madison’s Mendota Elementary School wiggled their bodies, clapped to the rhythm and participated in call-and-responses with Step Afrika! artists performing “The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence” in Overture Hall. 

Retired teacher and chaperone Kathy Chamberlain described the performance as “very interactive,” keeping the third through fifth graders super engaged. 

“Coming to Overture for OnStage student field trips is a great experience,” said Chamberlain, who retired in 2020 but frequently substitutes and continues to manage the school’s annual musical. “Going to shows provides valuable exposure for the kids to see what’s possible in the arts.” 

Excited by the special opportunity 

Following the performance, about 50 musical theater students stayed for a workshop with Step Afrika! artists.  

These Mendota students participate in the Disney Musicals in Schools program, performing a musical for their school community each March and participating at Overture’s Student Share in Capitol Theater. One of the original schools in Overture’s program, this spring will be their ninth season presenting a Disney musical. The students also have their own step program, called Stompers.  

The workshop was a highly anticipated addition to the students’ field trip day. 

They learned about the opportunity last year. After their spring school performance, the Mendota students were invited to Overture Hall to perform live at Overture’s 2025/26 season announcement.  

“While at Overture that evening, watching previews of upcoming shows, we were excited to see Step Afrika! was coming in February,” said Chamberlain. “When OnStage tickets went on sale, we ordered tickets right away.” 

Soon after, Overture’s Director of Education and Community Engagement Alanna Medearis reached out to ask if they’d be interested in a workshop with Step Afrika! dancers while the group was in town for a brief residency.  

“It was a perfect opportunity for the kids. I knew they would love it!” said Chamberlain. 

Learning from the professionals 

At the workshop, four dancers spent an hour with the students, demonstrating movements and steps. They shared their three pillars for success: teamwork, commitment and self-discipline, and emphasized that when you follow these pillars, you’re on the path toward success.  

They also provided many helpful tips with the students—from how to take care of their bodies (healthy eating, hydration and plenty of rest) to managing the pre-show jitters (smile and bring that energy to the performance) and handling mistakes (own it, make it big and move on). 

“The artists knew how to work with kids and naturally built in moments of life coaching,” said Chamberlain. “The workshop was interactive, physical and loud, and the kids were very focused on learning from the professionals.” 

The students even had time to sing a song and perform a few steps of their routine to get feedback from the Step Afrika! team. 

Grateful for these priceless experiences 

Chamberlain and the Mendota staff appreciate how Overture makes field trips seamless and enjoyable—from dropping off students and parking buses to accommodating accessibility needs and providing space for lunch. They like the variety of shows each year along with the affordable prices and bus subsidies that make their visits possible.  

“We love to get our kids out in the community. Many of them don’t often have access to experiences like this outside of school,” said Chamberlain. “Coming to Overture is such a positive experience in every way.” 

Learn more: Watch the Step Afrika! Community Panel recording to learn how percussive dance, African traditions and contemporary movement shape storytelling.   

As an independent nonprofit organization, Overture is grateful for the donations that make OnStage and other free and low-cost educational and community engagement programs possible.