James Clemens Theatre receives $1,800 state arts grant

David Harwell, theatre professor at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, will assist James Clemens High School Theatre, thanks to an $1,800 grant from Alabama State Council on the Arts. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – Alabama State Council on the Arts has awarded an $1,800 grant to the theatre program at James Clemens High School.

“We will use this grant to bring in David Harwell, theatre professor at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, to work with our students during spring semester on our spring show,” theatre teacher Michael Clinton Merritt said.

Harwell also will consult on maximizing potential of resources at James Clemens.

In applying for the grant, Merritt showed “a true need for financial support for the James Clemens program … and (the grant’s) long-lasting effects for the James Clemens community and theatre program.” He also visited arts headquarters in Montgomery to give a five-minute presentation.

Diana Green, an educational specialist for the council, assisted Merritt.

Harwell’s extensive resume and knowledge of technical theatre and history “will help our students take full advantage of our resources,” Merritt said.

Harwell earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Montevallo and a master’s degree at the University of Illinois. Since 2003 at UAH, he has taught numerous courses in communication arts, English and theatre.

In stage experience, Harwell has produced, directed, designed and consulted for technical construction for productions in Los Angeles, New York City, Mobile and other cities. For his work on “Between the Lions” on PBS, Harwell received a Daytime Emmy for Best Set Design in 2001.

James Clemens will present “Metamorphoses” by Mary Zimmerman in April 2015. While rooted in Greek mythology, the show is told from a modern perspective. Harwell will help build the show and work directly with student actors throughout the spring semester and assist with numerous design and technical issues, Merritt said.

Amy Patel is the founding director of James Clemens Theatre.

Merritt always recommends other teachers to apply for grants. The teacher must complete “work on the front side” when writing the grant, but “the rewards for the students are long-lasting and help foster a strong educational community and experience for students,” he said.