TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

Planned Parenthood Closes Teen Theater

ADVERTISEMENT

By MICHELE SAGER

The Tampa Tribune

Published: August 20, 2008

CARROLLWOOD - The theater that educated teens about sex, drugs and bullying through performance has shut down.

After nine years, the Source Teen Theatre on Busch Boulevard has closed its doors. The theater was a Planned Parenthood-sponsored program in which teens wrote and performed morality plays on teen issues.

"The students are very disappointed because many of them were like family," said Bonnie Amson, former director of program. "The news was really hard on them."

Amson said Planned Parenthood decided to cut the program and focus funding in other areas. About 25 students were "very active" members with the group, but Amson said it touched hundreds of students through its message.

In an April interview, Amson said the involvement left a lasting impression with the students.

"It's one thing to be told, 'Don't do it because it could get you pregnant,'" Amson said. "But when you play the part of that pregnant teen, you really have to get into the character."

Victoria Woodward, a former student who worked at the theater, said the program taught her to spread the correct information.

"If I hear bad information, I'm not afraid to kindly correct people," Woodward said. "I'm not afraid to correct teachers."

After the performances, teens were given feedback forms and discussions were held.

Sarasota is the only other city that still has the program. That group has been around for more than 20 years.

Reporter Michele Sager can be reached at (813) 865-4843 or msager@tampatrib.com.

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT