News

CHELMSFORD, Massachusetts (March 8, 2024) – Chelmsford Public Schools is excited to host acclaimed performer John Morello, who will present his one-man show, “Dirt,” on Tuesday, March 12.

For 20 years, Mr. Morello has been traveling the country to perform his one-man show that focuses on mental health, self-esteem and the decisions kids are faced with every day.

He is a dynamic, funny and poignant performer who speaks to the issues facing our kids as they navigate coming of age.

Parker Middle School students will have the first opportunity to see “Dirt” at Chelmsford High School’s Performing Arts Center, 200 Richardson Road, on Tuesday morning.

The performance has been adapted to meet the developmental age of fifth and sixth grade students so they can relate to the topics in a safe and meaningful way.

A second performance, which is open to parents in the community, will be held at the PAC at 6:30 p.m. Parents are more than welcome to bring their child or children to the event, as well.

This is a powerful performance that could serve as an entry point into discussing the many issues adolescents face today.

The Parker and McCarthy PTOs have graciously sponsored this worthy performance, making admission free to all who attend.

What is “Dirt”?

“Dirt” is a one-man show that explores the challenges and decisions that young people face every day.

By approaching things through the lens of mental health, “Dirt” gets to the heart of issues related to drugs, bullying, and self-esteem in a manner that resonates with audiences in a real and meaningful way.

Through the portrayal of relatable and memorable characters, Mr. Morello gives voice to those who sometimes feel as though they are not heard and reassurance to those who sometimes feel as though they are not understood.

Mr. Morello does not preach, teach or lecture; instead, he takes students on a journey that challenges them to think about the choices they make and how those choices impact their own lives and the lives of those around them.

In telling this coming-of-age story, Mr. Morello speaks candidly about his own journey with depression and anxiety and the circumstances that made life difficult as a young adult.

He also makes himself vulnerable by stepping out from behind his characters in the show and talking about his current everyday struggles in order to destigmatize mental health diagnoses and treatment.

With the show and his testimonials, Mr. Morello brings oxygen into the room and makes students feel safe to begin a conversation with their leaders, peers and themselves.

For more information, visit www.johnmorello.com.

About Chelmsford Public Schools

The Chelmsford Public School District provides all students with multiple pathways to optimize their own potential for academic excellence, leadership, and social and emotional wellness. The mission of the Chelmsford Public Schools is to educate, engage, prepare, and empower well-rounded and knowledgeable learners to PERSEVERE through challenges, demonstrate RESPECT and INTEGRITY in their words and actions, are DEDICATED to their community, and display EMPATHY as global citizens while discovering and pursuing their full potential.  This PRIDE-driven culture enables all members of the school community to support the growth and development of students.  For more information, please visit www.chelmsfordschools.org.