My first experience shadowing a tour with one of the wonderful docents at the Ritz was incredible. A tour group from a local after school program came through and I had the opportunity to follow along and provide additional background information throughout the tour, with the docent’s permission.
It was truly inspiring seeing how engaged some of the students became as they explored the museum: most naturally gravitated towards the photography collection by Weems and the sports sections! I felt like I gained a deeper understanding of what it takes to give an effective and interesting tour. There was a moment where I was able to ask the group a question relating to the Beauty Salon room on Main Street and was struck by how quickly everyone became attached to the rest of that particular room’s discussion. It was clear that the way to engage a group was to invite them to relate more deeply to the cultural and personal aspects of what is presented.
Overall, it was an incredible and fun experience, and left me invigorated to return to my tour script soon!
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