Pono Players is a peer education troupe of eight young actors aged 15 to 22 years old who translate serious issues into non-threatening stories that address various problems facing young people on Kauai. The current production Ripples, is a collaboration with the Hawaii Meth Project and other local agencies.

Ripples combines real-life messages and language with drama to create a highly effective program that educates young people about the devastating effects of using Ice. The program is geared towards middle and high school aged students, however the material is relevant to everyone in the community.

As peer educators, the Pono Players use an innovative approach to teaching that allows teens to relate to the material without feeling like they are being lectured. Students and at-risk youth are provided with a memorable, educational and thought provoking experience that raises awareness, provides knowledge, and changes attitudes and/or behaviors.

Following the performance, the audience is encouraged to dialogue with the actors. This "question and answer" segment leads to a sharing of divergent points of view, which can bring a greater understanding and awareness of the topic presented, and the knowledge of how and where to access assistance in the community. A panel of experts on the issue is on hand to assist when needed.

Please contact Steve Whitney at 808-651-3509 for more information and to schedule a performance of Ripples for your group or at your school.