Unique After-School Program, Thacker, Jr., Looks Forward To 2017

Oxford author Allison Estes (left) leads a reading of her children’s book, “Izzy and Oscar,” during a performance of Thacker, Jr. last spring.

A unique after-school program for academically at-risk students is now accepting donations to continue into 2017. Thacker, Jr. was initiated by the longtime Oxford radio show, Thacker Mountain Radio, with a mission to add music and literature, in a fun and educational way, to the after-school curriculum of local elementary students.

Earlier this year, Thacker, Jr. began a partnership with Leap Frog, the after-school tutoring program for first through third graders, and has since added the Boys and Girls Clubs of Oxford. An Indiegogo page has been set up specifically for Thacker, Jr.: http://bit.ly/2g8nmDx

Last April, Thacker, Jr. presented a 30-minute version of the actual show at Oxford University United Methodist Church. Performed in front of an all-student audience, host Jim Dees and house band, the Yalobushwhackers, included their usual – if shortened – mix of music and books. Local student band, Roxford University performed and Oxford-based children’s author, Allison Estes, read from her book, “Izzy and Oscar.” The show was also a graduation party for third graders in the Leap Frog program. Cue cards helped the audience participate in the reading. Local eateries contributed gourmet popsicles.

Thacker house band, The Yalobushwhackers, entertain students at last spring’s Thacker, Jr.

The second edition of Thacker, Jr. will be performed this week and will feature students taking on the roles of host and house band. Like the April show, this week’s program will not be open to the public.

“Right now, we’re keeping it as an after-school program just for the kids,” said former Thacker producer Kathryn York. 

York is leading a student marketing class from the University of Mississippi through all facets of production, rehearsal and promotion of Thacker, Jr.

“We hope to build on the positive response to the last show,” York added. “The kids really enjoyed the stories and songs. The fundraising will help us get a footing to expand the program- and yes, possibly open the shows to the public – going forward.”

Courtesy of Thacker Mountain Radio Hour.
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