Off Peak

School plays teach efficiency, creativity, and self-confidence.

Bumbling Melvin Markham is a hero. He just doesn't know it. As the central character in an innovative school play, Melvin learns that everyone can save energy and the environment.

Portland General Electric (PGE), of Portland, Ore., commissioned the production, You Ooze, You Lose, to teach elementary school students the importance of energy efficiency and sustainable living. "Teaching our customers, of all ages, about wise use of energy is a big part of PGE's mission," said CEO and President Peggy Fowler. "To effectively reach children, you can't just hand them a pamphlet. You have to be creative."

The play just finished its second year of rave reviews at grade school assemblies across the utility's service territory, and PGE has sold the program to several other Pacific Northwest utilities. Creative Information Transformation Education (CITE) of Portland produced the 45-minute event, shown to almost 60,000 students from kindergarten through fifth grade. The story follows the quest of Melvin, a comically clueless youngster who fantasizes about being a superhero.

When Melvin visits his hero, Bozotic Man, he hits the "Do Not Push!" button, which activates the ugly Wizard of Ooze, the ultimate waster of resources. The Wizard looks like a huge coffeepot covered with splotchy paint. He sprouts vacuum hoses from his sides and electric cables from his nose. With help from Dr. Pixel, a scientist, Melvin learns about saving electricity, water, and natural gas, and using renewable resources.