For the past three years, Lee University has been granted the opportunity to support guest performing artists through the Tennessee Arts Commission. This year Lee welcomed the Bright Star Children’s Theater to the Dixon Center stage to perform their play “The Lady of Bullyburg.”

“The Lady of Bullyburg” is designed to give young audiences the tools they need to cope with bullying. Lee was able to host 2,300 schoolchildren throughout the five daytime performances from seven elementary schools in addition to locally homeschooled children including: Oak Grove Elementary, Charleston Elementary, Lee University Early Learning Center, Stuart Elementary, EL Ross Elementary, Yates Primary, Mayfield Elementary, Tennessee Christian Preparatory School, and Bradley County Homeschool Group. 

“I used the study guide to talk about bullying, and then to see bullying in action on stage was wonderful,” said a teacher in attendance. “I loved the way the actors took time to discuss ideas to stop bullying. After the performance, we were able to discuss as a small group as well.”

Lee’s opportunity to host such performers as Bright Star is due, in part, to the Tennessee Arts Commission, funded under an agreement with the State of Tennessee. 

Created in 1967, The TAC stimulates and encourages the presentation of performing, visual and literary arts throughout the state and encourages public interest in the cultural heritage of Tennessee. The Commission has encouraged excellence in artistic expression through the state's artists and arts organizations. That commitment has grown through the years to ensure that the citizens of Tennessee have access to, and the opportunity to participate in, the arts.

The Arts in Education Committee of the Allied Arts Council also helped support this event. “They provided financial support for several of the schools by covering costs for transportation and tickets,” said Dr. Christine Williams, assistant professor of theatre.  “The event would not have been as successful without their support.” 

For more information call 614-8343, email theatre@leeuniversity.edu, or visit www.leeuniversity.edu/theatre. Fans can also join the Facebook page "Lee University Theatre."

For more information on “The Lady of Bullyburg” or Bright Star, visit http://brightstartheatre.com

or contact Bright Star Touring Theatre: 336.558-7360.