PORT ANGELES — When the youngsters at Five Acre School found out about this little-known genius, they didn’t just read his story and set it aside.
Instead, they’re staging a play: “The Secret History of Nikola Tesla,” at 7 p.m. Friday in the Little Theater at Peninsula College, 1502 E. Lauridsen Blvd., where admission will be free to the public.
“Secret History,” the true tale of the man who helped develop robotics, neon lights and AC power, will come to light courtesy of Five Acre’s third- through seventh-graders. The show runs an hour — but first, the younger kids will present another story.
“The-Two-Who-Changed-Things,” a Makah creation myth, will also come to the stage Friday, starring kindergartners and first- and second-graders at the private school.
Their combined class has been studying Native American tribes, said Five Acre art and music teacher Rosie Sharpe.
“It promises to be a rich evening,” Sharpe said, adding that in “The Secret History of Nikola Tesla,” several luminaries will appear. Among them are Susan B. Anthony (played by Charlotte Hertel, 12), Andrew Carnegie (Jack Walsh, 10), Emily Post (Raven Sharpe, 12), Mary Astor (Ellie Curtis, 10), and Marie Curie (Livia Claypool, 9).
“The kids are great actors, and will be wearing period costumes,” said Sharpe.
Their performance is both comedic and informative, she said, adding that it’s suitable for children in third grade or higher, as well as adults.
“If you use electricity, a cellphone, the radio, neon lights or a remote control, you’re benefiting from the work of [Tesla],” noted Sharpe.
For more, visit FiveAcreSchool.org or phone 360-681-7255.
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Features Editor Diane Urbani de la Paz can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 5062, or at diane.urbani@peninsuladailynews.com.