For students, good field trips bring content and curriculum to life, and that is truly what happens in Virginia Rep’s Chasing George Washington: A White House Adventure. Annie, José, and Dee, three students, visit the White House and literally stumble upon the stories and people who made it a home. Through upbeat and inspirational music and relatable characters, not only does history come alive; so do the messages of hope and belonging.
The show begins with an attention-grabbing hook as the tour guide (Ariela Press) walks down the theater aisle, using a stern tone of voice, advising the audience of proper theater behavior (no photos, cell phones, etc.). Then, she immediately jumps into field trip mode, along with the three students who will join her in touring 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. This thoughtful introduction prepared young audience members for the show seamlessly.
Chasing George Washington: A White House Adventure offers children the chance to see themselves in the three main characters. José (Dantes Son) lives with his family and extended family members in an apartment. While Dee (Jaden Floyd) lives in the suburbs, where her parents can afford luxuries, like outsourcing yard work. Finally, Annie (Emma Robinson) is an immigrant from Eastern Europe where her mother cleans hotel rooms. In providing representation, children are more eager to connect with the story, and cultivate empathy and connection.
As the three (relatively uninterested) students listen to the tour, the only thing connecting them is that they don’t feel they belong in the White House. As they commiserate, one tiny stumble causes “the dude on the dollar bill” to come alive! At the students’ surprise, he leads them on a tour through history of who lived there, significant events, and ultimately demonstrates that they all do, in fact, belong there.
As an educator, I love opportunities to weave learning into our family outings, and this play does just that, supporting much of what my daughter has learned in her 4th grade U.S. Studies course. Highlights for her were First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis explaining that women earned the right to vote through the Nineteenth Amendment, as well as Abraham Lincoln signing the Emancipation Proclamation. Notably, this was immediately followed by sharing that the forty-fourth President, Barack Obama was the first African American President. Connecting these important events with songs like “Pen and Ink” enhances prior knowledge and helps to create indelible memories.
Recommended for ages seven to thirteen, this one-hour show uses effects that will be most appreciated by this demographic, including: a disco ball, lighting that supports dramatic changes (like bringing George Washington to life!), and seeing Abraham Lincoln’s signature in lights on the stage. Further, the familiar dialogue (“he is so not hot”) will score points with this age group as well.
As George Washington continues the tour, the students begin to see The White House as more than just a house, they see it as a home, filled with memories and a rich history.
As the show is ending, they confide in one another, sharing the most special parts of their respective homes, and while they’re vastly different, a recliner versus a painting, for example – they’re built on memories and connection, just like the White House.
Ultimately, through this shared experience, and the wise words from George Washington, all three students feel a sense of belonging and connection; not only to one another, but to the United States.
Chasing George Washington: A White House Adventure runs through March 3, 2024 at Jessica Bogese Theater.
Find showtimes and ticket information at VirginiaRep.org.
