Well, the Chautauqua for this year is over, and what a great success it was! Thanks to all of the teachers, parents, and sponsors for the fantastic support. Thanks mostly to the students of Holy Cross School who, once again, gave a very impressive performance.

If you've been 'out of the loop' then here's what it was all about.

A Chautauqua is an educational show done in a big top atmoshpere. The Students of Holy Cross School created an entire 2 hour performance dramatizing the history of the Penticton area. From the Native traditions of the Okanagan (En'owkin) and Similkameen Bands to the original Tom Ellis homestead, mining history and the building of the Kettle Valley Railway, the audience was drawn back to the turn of the century for a story they will not soon forget.

This was not just your ordinary school play, however. The students wrote (and edited, and re-wrote) the entire performance with guidance from teachers. They researched the history of the Okanagan with attention to the Pentcton area, with many visits to the library, museum, and other local reference sources. This Chautauqua spanned Social Studies (History), Language Arts (Script Writing), Creative Arts (Decorations, Set Design), and Music (and more music). Overall it proved to be a powerful learning experience for all involved.

This web-site is a tribute to all those involved, and your chance to see what went on under the big top.