Week 1

The first week is our opportunity to meet one another, learn the routine and expectations and to dive in to the STOMP Troopers project.

The participants learned names, rules, roles and schedule in an introductory slideshow.  We wanted to really sell them on the idea of the parade and get them excited about the project, so next we watched some videos of the parade. One of the teachers, Taylor Cheek, even modeled a STOMP Trooper costume and demonstrated some drumming.

After a break, we doove in with costume creation. Participants traced dark lines to represent the joints and details on a Storm Trooper body armor suit, using permanent marker on a hooded Tyvek jumpsuit.  Volunteers from Tulane United for Autism, Loyola's Department of Music Therapy and LSU's School of Occupational Therapy assisted the NOLArts staff in facilitating.

"Don't sniff the markers- they have a strong scent which could make you nauseous," observed STOMP Trooper, Simon Brickman in his always-articulate manner.  "Yeah.  And don't eat them- yuck!" added his peer, Miklosh.  Great tips!

Next week: electroluminescant wire!