A group of 36 children discovered what it was like in biblical times during drama camp last week.
Grace United Methodist Church held a camp for children who learned the play Go, Go Jonah! They presented the show for family and friends Friday night.
"It's just a fun summer activity to give them something to do, but at the same time to teach them a story from the Bible," said Marianne Harlan, the director of worship arts at the church.
Harlan has taught drama for 15 years at the church, including stories about Esther, Samson, Daniel and other biblical figures.
"It seems like they learn so much about the story and lifting the Bible stories off the pages of the Bible and making them come to life is just really fun to them," Harlan said.
Children learn a little bit about acting as well, such as voice projection. By the end of the week, all shyness is put aside, she said.
"It just never fails," Harlan said. "The ones who are more reserved they come out of their shell by the end of the week."
McPherson Newell, 10, said she is a little shy, but returning to camp each year with the same group from years past helps.
"It is easier to do it with people you know than strangers," McPherson said.
She said she likes to sing and shared a song with her brother, which included a solo, in this summer's play. McPherson has a method that keeps her from stage fright.
"I just try to find my parents and concentrate on them or other people I know," she said.
Harlan said acting out stories from the Bible will help children remember the story in the future.
Reach Crystal Garcia at crystal.garcia@northaugustatoday.com.
