THE STORY: All of the creatures on Mother Earth, including the birds, rocks, flowers, and trees, are taking the humans to court.

THE CHARGE: Humans have forgotten the most important things. They have forgotten their stories, songs, and dances, and most importantly, they have forgotten how to honor and respect eachother and the land.

THE JUDGE and BAILIFF: Arizona's Living Folklore Clowns

HOW IT WORKS: During an open dialogue, students are asked how the charges brought against the humans are true, and how the charges are not true. Students begin to form arguments, which they reseach to bring to the court. A student is picked to be the Prosecuting Attorney, and one is picked to be the Public Defender. A few students are picked as witnesses for each side, and the rest of the students become the jury. At the end of the residency, a public performance involving the students is held where the whole community can witness this thought provoking and silly play. The clowns keep the production moving, and light hearted with slap-stick humor.

EDUCATIONAL BENEFITS FOR THE STUDENTS: This program has been successful with over 1,000 students. The students always become impassioned to formulate their own opinions, and are excited to do the research necessary to back their opinion. This model is perfect for allowing students to see both sides of an issue, and learn effective tools for problem solving. It is very empowering for students to have a whole community come to see and hear their opinions. This project always comes back to each individual student, and what they ultimately choose to do about what they believe. There is no final verdict, only a closing dialogue where everyone has the opportunity to listen and be heard.