Press Releases: Georgia
February 17, 2006
Fruits and Veggies Hit the Stage to Fight Childhood Obesity
This just in… Fruits and vegetables have gone on strike and something must be done. Children have abandoned healthy foods in favor of junk food and a couch potato lifestyle. To end their strike, the fruits and veggies only ask that kids "Give Peas a Chance."
In their latest production, Kaiser Permanente’s Educational Theatre Program deals with the growing epidemic of childhood obesity. "Give Peas a Chance" is a 40-minute puppet show that uses humor, stimulating visuals and audience interaction to teach kids how to make healthy nutrition choices and the benefits of physical activity.
"In the last 10 years, we have seen a significant increase in the percentage of overweight children. This production is a creative and fun way to teach children how to make the right choices when it comes to diet and exercise," said Bett Potazek, artistic director of the Educational Theatre Program.
Three puppeteers bring more than 30 colorful characters to life during this fast-paced production geared for an elementary school audience. Television reporter Juan B. Healthy investigates a food strike organized by Cris P. Broccoli and friends. Through audience participation, Juan and the children learn more about the food pyramid, the importance of a healthy diet and the benefits of daily exercise.
"The puppet show was fantastic," said local first grade teacher Leslie M. Peters. "The children were engaged and learned a lot about eating healthy and exercising."
Kaiser Permanente’s Educational Theatre Program offers a unique series of award-winning theatre programs with compelling health messages to reach children, teens and adults. From stress management in the workplace to AIDS awareness, the traveling plays instill positive attitudes about healthy lifestyle choices. Productions are offered as a free community service to metro Atlanta schools and businesses.
For more information or to book a performance, contact Billy Auer at (404) 869-5952 or visit http://xnet.kp.org/ga/etp/.
Kaiser Permanente is the state of Georgia's largest nonprofit health plan, serving the health care needs of Atlanta metro area residents for 22 years. Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of Georgia, Inc. currently provides comprehensive health care services to approximately 275,000 members through 15 medical facilities in a 28-county service, and a network of affiliated hospitals and physicians. The Health Plan provided more than $5 million in community benefit programs and services.
