Project Hip Hop
Project Hip Hop at Alberta Bair Theater in conjunction with eight Title One elementary schools in Billings and, originally, one elementary school in Laurel, was conceived in 2012 and implemented in 2013.
The Hip Hop program began with one elementary school and, because of its success, grew to many more. Students who participate must keep their grades up and commit to attending each Hip Hop class. Principals see an improvement in attitudes, temperament, and cooperation in students who participate. Students who previously may not have interacted begin encouraging each other, forming friendships.
Hip Hop classes start yearly in November with students meeting one day a week either before or after the school day. Hip Hop instructors are teachers in the schools or dance instructors from local dance schools. Classes meet for six weeks culminating with Alberta Bair Theater’s Hip Hop Master Classes and Student Matinees. The performing artists who are part of each year’s Hip Hop matinees agree to hold Master Classes on the stage of the theater the day before their matinees. Two schools at a time come to the theater and spend an hour learning dance moves from professional Hip Hop artists.
This year, Soul Street Dance is the touring company presenting master classes on Thursday, January 19 and Takin’ it to the Streets matinees on Friday, January 20. Their performance will also be attended by all 6th graders in Billings Public Schools.
5th Grade Art Show
In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson
On January 30, all BPS 5th graders will be treated to In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson at the Alberta Bair Theater. In 1947, the Year of the Boar, a young girl leaves China with her parents for a new beginning in America… But it’s harder than she expected. Though her classmates in Brooklyn come from a variety of backgrounds, Shirley is the only one who doesn’t speak English, and she worries that she will never have a friend.
But through a new love of the Brooklyn Dodgers (especially her hero Jackie Robinson), Shirley begins to feel at home. Based on the book by Bette Bao Lord and told through humor, Chinese and English, and a rich multimedia staging, the play celebrates the bravery and sacrifice of those who bring
new perspectives to our country.
Patti Waddell
After a short, intense and very private battle with leukemia, Patricia Jean Waddell passed away on December 18, 2022, surrounded by her closest friends and family.
A native of Billings, Patti was born on June 7, 1954. She spent many happy days at her family cabin in Red Lodge and she was very active in the Festival of Nations celebrations each summer. She was strong, independent and a proud Scot.
Patti got her Bachelor’s degree from Lawrence University in Appleton, WI. Her master’s came from Eastern Montana College, Billings, MT.
She taught preschool and music, K-8, at Chicago Junior School, where she developed their music curriculum.
Patti served thousands of students in the Billings Public Schools teaching elementary and middle school music. Her former students recognize and revere her, talking candidly about how she positively impacted their lives. In her thirty plus years in Billings, Patti paved the way for so many music teachers with her leadership.
Throughout her life, she enjoyed adventurous travel. A trip to Scotland and a ride to the bottom of the Grand Canyon on a mule were two highlights of her life. She used her creative skills to make many quilted masterpieces.
In her retirement, Patti took up painting. Crooked Line Studio featured her works in November, 2022, with a very successful show. Jazz piano became a new passion as well. She stayed active in music performance and took up playing the bells, joining belissimo!
She will be remembered as a valued educator, precious friend and beloved family member.
Arrangements are being made for the celebration of Patti’s life at Smith Funeral Chapel West on Saturday, January 28, 2023, 1:00 p.m. Patti wanted a celebration of life that would include her quilts. If you were blessed with a quilt Patti made for you, please bring it with you to display. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Yellowstone Forever or a charity of your choice.
BPS Fine Arts Department
