Performing Arts Outreach: The Share Project

Established in January 2009, the TASK Performing Arts Program, entitled "The SHARE Project" has an open door policy and all are welcome to participate. The group meets every Thursday afternoon from 11:30am - 1:00pm in the multipurpose room at TASK. At each meeting, participants work on writing new poems, songs, short stories, and plays and then share their writings with the group to receive feedback and constructive criticism. We also use the weekly meeting time to invite professionals in performing arts fields to volunteer an hour or so to present a workshop for the group.

In addition, a new band has been formed has formed at TASK. Members recently voted to name the band "The FunkTASKtiks". The band practices Mondays between 11:00am and 1:00pm in the multipurpose room at TASK and is open to any aspiring musician, regardless of skill level. The program allows patrons to come together and play and sing with a variety of 5 instruments: keyboard, bass, drums, electric/acoustic guitars, and a number of rhythm instruments.

For the first of two hours the band plucks their way through a structured "jam" session. Similar to an "open mic", participants can sing songs, play instruments, or just listen to the music. The second hour is run similar to an actual band practice. Each week, participants bring in material that they would like to perform. The songs can be original pieces or "cover" songs. The songs are collected and practiced on a weekly basis to build a common song list for future performances. All types of music are welcome; from folk to funk. After each session, members meet briefly to discuss upcoming events, performances, and the progress and direction of the overall program.

Along with the new band equipment, thanks to the help of volunteer Brandon Rowan, TASK also has begun offering music lessons. Monday between 3:15pm and 5:00pm patrons have the opportunity to learn and improve their skills in guitar and bass.

In addition to rehearsing and performing, the group takes trips to see local theatrical productions, musical concerts, dance performances, and poetry readings. We are constantly seeking donations of tickets to see local performance arts events.

You can help The SHARE Project by:

• Donating tickets to a performance or inviting us to a dress rehearsal
• Volunteering an hour to teach a workshop
• Volunteering to help the group at the Thursday or Monday meetings/rehearsals
• Inviting The SHARE Project and/or The FunkTASKtiks to perform for your group
• Volunteering to teach instrument or voice lessons
• Donating a musical instrument

If you have any questions or would like any information, please contact Jaime Parker, SHARE Project Coordinator at (609) 695-5456 x 105 or jaimep@trentonsoupkitchen.org.