Two Stars

KALW's Katherine Girardeau's explores Destiny Arts, a program for at-risk teens in Oakland, California. Destiny Arts uses dance and movement training to empower inner city young people.

Despite the odds, this piece hangs together well. We hear some ambiance of the program itself. But we hear mostly from its participants and advocates.

So, the piece is a little talky. But it's saved by some nice "bank shots" -- where actualities intertwine in a way that resonate and move the narrative along.

I found some of the tape itself a little echoey and off mike. Perhaps that was a result of the church space where Destiny Arts is based.

Programmers nationally could use this as a set up piece for a program on at-risk youth and solutions.

NOTE: Reporter's SOC references KALW.

Anthea Raymond
Editorial Board
Los Angeles
July 24, 2006