Dramatic difference

This nineteen minute video thesis project uses interviews and location footage to explore how areas within the humanities--specifically theatre, art and poetry--are used in hospital environments to aid in the treatment of and to improve the quality of life for children and adolescents with cancer and other serious illnesses. Theatre techniques and poetry are central subjects of inquiry and comprise the primary focus of this discussion. Subjects discussed include: The essence of the function of the humanities and how artistic techniques are applied as tools for learning, change and growth, and institutional art and drama therapy programs as they have emerged from the humanities. The information presented is especially useful for artists, teachers and health-care professionals interested in humanities and arts programs for children. Interviews include Don Laffoon of Stop-Gap and Children's Hospital Orange County; Richard Garcia, poet-in-residence; and Hilja Keating, artist-in-residence, at Children's Hospital Los Angeles.