Creativity

Never Underestimate the Influence of Teaching with Videos

February 23, 2022 By dhcbaldwin 2 Comments

Never Underestimate the Influence of Teaching with Videos

When I began teaching, we didn’t have videos to show students anything pertaining to theater. Friends, never underestimate the never underestimate the influence of teaching with videos!

That was 1980 and the closest thing we had was an old projector which showed black and white films. Yuck. Part of the reason this was uninspiring to students is as we know, theater is a visual art. Plus, it gives students a concrete example of the quality of work professionals turn out. Consequently, not many students enrolled in drama classes.

I was looking around for more reasons why teaching with video works. I ran on to www.nextthoughtsstudios.com I found this quote helpful: “Studies have shown that the use of short video clips allows for more efficient processing and memory recall. The visual and auditory nature of videos appeals to a wide audience and allows each user to process information in a way that’s natural to them. In a nutshell, videos are good teachers.”

Things are different now, huh?

Practically with the snap of a finger, a teacher can search for what she wants and show it in her classroom within a few minutes.

Never Underestimate the Influence of Teaching with Videos

Creating products gives me oppportunities to see many videos worth viewing in the theater classroom. I thought they might be of benefit to you, too!

Primarily, these videos are located on youtube.com. If your school allows you to use Youtube. com, you will be good to go. I’ve also mentioned several videos that you could rent or purchase for your classroom.

Never Underestimate the Influence of Teaching with Videos

Hamilton!

Let’s Look at Hamilton, first!

There are many videos of Hamilton. However one that I especially like is: Adam Savage Examines the Props of Hamilton.

Let’s begin with set design. Set Design for Hamilton is terrific. It’s only 3 minutes in length. Fascinating stuff here.

The lighting design for Hamilton is awesome! Behind the Scenes with a Hamilton Stagehand Who Told Stories with LightsThis one shows what its like for a stagehand. So interesting. (5:58 mins.)

The costume design for Hamilton is a Hamilton Designers Explain How Costumes are Made I think you’ll learn something new here. (29:42 mins.)

Hamilton is available on line through DisneyPlus only. Honestly, I’d sign up for DisneyPlus just to have the opportunity to show it to my students.

If you’d like more information about Hamilton, check out: Hamilton the Musical: A Drama Lesson with a Unique Perspective

Wicked!

Behind the Emerald Curtain is a series of videos which were created for the express purpose of education.

Wicked Behind the Emerald Curtain is a fascinating interview with the costume designer, Susan Hilferty. There is more information here than just costume design, so take a look at this! (5:35 mins.)

In this video, the choreographer for Wicked explains the difference between choreography and staging a musical. See how the entire world of Wicked the musical was choreographed. (4:47 mins.)

Who is an expert in stage smoke, fog and torches? This man is. You’ll want to check out the special effects of Wicked for certain. Wicked: Special Effects (3:37 mins.)

Good news! A movie version of Wicked is slated to begin productions in the summer of 2022. Cynthia Erivo will pay Elfaba and Arianna Grande will be Glenda. How wonderful will that be?

Considering teaching a whole unit on Wicked? Check out my post: Will Wicked The Musical Ever Rule the World?

Dear Evan Hansen

Now that the Dear Evan Hansen movie has been released, this would be a fantastic time to study the musical.

David Korins, Set Design of Dear Evan Hansen shares an incredible story about his creative process. (3:43 mins.)

Here is a short piece on the Genius Design of Lighting of Dear Evan Hansen you simply must show your students! In this video clip, the announcer explains the complexity and number of light cues used in one part of a song. Amazing. (3:13 mins.)

Maybe you need something physical for your students to do? You could use this as a warm-up of even lesson for the day. Check out Dear Evan Hansen Dance Combo (27:01 mins.)

You can rent Dear Evan Hansen through a variety of ways–Apple TV and Prime are two.

Here’s a blog post concerning Dear Evan Hansen which you may find useful and interesting. Like “Dear Evan Hansen”? Then You’ll Love This News

Never Underestimate the Influence of Teaching with Videos

Spongebob Squarepants

Oh my gosh, friends. Spongebob Squarepants is such fun and your younger students will really enjoy learning about it.

You’ll want to look at the interview of a set designer. Set Designer David Zinn ( 7:00 mins.) I enjoy how he explains his concept of the musical, but also explains how color, the use of unusual objects and looking at the story as a child would.

Davis Zinn is exceptionally talented! He designed the costumes for the production as well. Explore the Costumes of Spongebob Squarepants. (2:56 mins.) Your students will love what he uses for each costumes and the detail is immense.

Switching gears here. I think showing a rehearsal of a production. It’s very important for our students. It demonstrates that rehearsals should be done with high energy, full commitment and dedication. Get a Sneak Peak at New Broadway Musical Spongebob Squarepants (2:25 mins.)

Need a scope and sequence for your middle school theater class? I can help here: Drama Units Scope and Sequence

Hadestown

Take a Tour Downtown of Hadestown with Rachel Hauk, set design and Rachel Chavkin, director. (4:09 mins.) For your students who can’t get enough of the creative process of designing a production, you’ll want to show this one.

Making the Music Anais Mitchell (3:50 mins.) talks about composing the music for Hadestown. In particular, she talks about the song, “Why Do We Build a Wall.: The lyrics to this song are not a political statement, but when Hadestown opened our former president was busy trying to keep immigrants out of the country. Talk about life imitating art and vice versa.

Broadway’s Hadestown is a Google Talk (55:31 mins.) which older students would appreciate. I think I would use it for a discussion and pick out certain parts which I wanted to point out–blocking, staging, etc. Members of the cast have an opportunity to share about the production. I especially appreciate Andre Shields’ interview. Although long, it’s worth the time.

You can find bootleg copies of Hadestown. That means someone recorded it illegally. I don’t recommend using these because it just perpetuates the idea that this activity is acceptable.

Here’s a blog post of mine about Hadestown and all its wonderfulness. What Can We Learn from Greek Mythology?

Never Underestimate the Influence of Teaching with Videos

Beetlejuice

Heres a fun one to study: Beetlejuice! The Cast of Beetlejuice Performed at medley at the Tony Awards. (3:48 mins.) Something interesting about this musical is that it was nominated for many Tony awards and didn’t win one. Strange, huh?

The set design is so imaginative–I’d show this for your gifted students. They’ll get a kick out of it! David Korns strikes again as the designer of the Beetlejuice set. It might be interesting to show the three video clips of his work and see if there are any similarities. That’s what I would do. Set Tour with Designer David Korin/ Beetlejuice the Musical. (7:22 mins.)

In How William Ivey Long Created the Beetlejuice and Tootsie Costumes (9:35 mins.) Long speaks about his process for the musical. Talk about talented! You’ll see that he spent over two years designing Beetlejuice. Amazing.

We can’t leave out plays. They are fabulous to teach with too

Teach with Plays

We can’t leave out plays. They are fabulous to teach with too.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Oh yes! To study a little bit of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child play would be fabulous for middle grade students.

If your students are unfamiliar with the play, show them this montage first: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Exclusive Montage. (4:43 mins.)

This clip shares many things–the director, special effects, blocking, staging, lighting design, costume design–you name it. Behind the Scenes of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (2:49 mins.) is a definite show on my list!

I think students will find this video Magic to Do: Harry Potter with James Snyder (9:51 mins.) demonstrates that actors are pretty much like the rest of us. Pretty goofy.

To Kill a Mockingbird

Let’s say you want to read a play in your high school theater class? I’d suggest To Kill a Mockingbird. I’d include these video clips while we read it. Maybe as a warm-up.

I’d begin with this video clip. It concerns how the play was reworked by the director, Aaron Sorkin. How Aaron Sorkin Reworked To Kill a Mockingbird for Broadway (7:19 mins.) It’s fascinating.

To Kill a Mockingbird Lessons for Today focuses on (7:10 mins.) the show’s star Jeff Daniels and playwright Aaron Sorkin about translating Lee’s characters to the stage, and with students who talk about “Mockingbird”‘s relevance to today’s audience.

Lastly, this video clip discusses the characters of the play. Citizens of To Kill a Mockingbird LaTanya Richards Jackson as Calpurnia (2:40 mins.)

Never Underestimate the Influence of Teaching With Videos

I hope these video links give you a lot of choice and ideas for your classroom use. If I were you, I’d teach a different musical or play each day–that’s 8 days or more of lessons for you. And….a substitute could use these as well.

Have you used video clips in your classroom? I’d love to hear about it. Contact me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com or DeborahBaldwin.net

Want some help with your directing? Pick up my FREE checklists at: Director’s Helper Checklists

How Theatre Shaped My Life Volume Two

September 1, 2021 By dhcbaldwin 2 Comments

How Theatre Shaped My Life Volume Two

This is the second blog post in my series, “How Theatre Shaped My Life.” Here is the first: How Theatre Shaped My Life

I find it quite intriguing that many people who take theatre classes inspire to be or become community servants. What is the connection for them? Or is there one at all?

Upon researching this connection, I found an interesting quote from the abstract, “Toward a Synthesis of Science and Theatre Arts” by Professor, Kay DeMetz, “Science and theatre seek the same goals, in the same way, using the same language. That is, they both seek to understand the natural world through intelligence and insight. Scientists speak of finding“truth”; theatre artists work to present verisimilitude, or similarity to life onstage.” For more information from this abstract, go to https://files.eric.ed.gov

Fascinating, yes?

I asked former students of mine to share how theatre shaped their life. Two of the three women here work as community servants, the third aspires to be one.

Here are their thoughts.

Benefits of Theater Education

Want some more help in the classroom? Check out my FREE Guide and ten page lesson Here

Hannah Matousek

When I meet new people, they’re usually shocked to learn that I’m both a biology major and an actress. However, I don’t find it strange at all. For me, theatre is actually necessary for my sanity; every single character I’ve played has influenced my own character, which I’m constantly trying to improve. I believe that these characters have even become an extension of myself. A good example of this can be seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.

I was devastated when live theatre had to be cancelled, but luckily my school theater was able to resume live shows with limited audiences in fall 2020. The very first show I was in post-lockdown was The Living, a show about the Black Plague that struck London in the 17^th century. My character, Sarah Chandler, dealt with confusion, death, and loss, just as I was trying to deal with the stress surrounding the public health crisis we found (and still find) ourselves in. Throughout the show, though, I began to see bits and pieces of Sarah’s character that I wanted to adopt as my own in order to support my own character.

When I am on the stage, I am both myself and the character. But in real life, I am wholly myself. I adopt the traits of my characters as my own and mold them to fit my own real-life situations.

I am not a professional actress. I am not even a theatre student. But I know that my experience with theatre and character work will be a huge part of each and every one of my successes in my personal and professional life in the future.

Maybe someday I’ll be a doctor in some prestigious hospital. Maybe I’ll be at the bed of a patient who is on their way out of this life. My strength in that moment will come from Sarah Chandler.

Benefits of Theater Education

Katharine Atwood

This is Katharine Atwood, my oldest daughter. If there is anyone who can share her thoughts on this subject, it is she.⁣
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A nurse friend of mine said to me the other day, “We’re like ducks. Most people just see our calm faces and think that’s all that’s happening, but beneath the surface, we’re paddling hard.”⁣
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I first learned to do this on stage. You have to keep track of what’s currently going on in the script while anticipating what comes next. All the while making sure you don’t give it away before it’s time for the laugh, the joke, or song. ⁣

As a nurse, this skill now translates to a mental list of checked boxes related to vital signs, consent forms, alarm sounds, and a myriad of other details pertaining to the current patient or one down the hallway. While all of this buzzes away in my head, I smile as I walk in the door and sweetly say “Hi! My name is Katharine. I’ll be your nurse today.”⁣
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When I was a kid, I was somewhat shy. I didn’t like speaking to strangers. I had trouble with self confidence. Drama helped me to feel comfortable with what I was capable of in a safe place. Playing a character instead of myself, I was able to buffer my shyness. And over time, my extroverted and more confident self began to emerge.⁣
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Thanks to theater, I don’t panic when things get off course or start to downward spiral. “The show must go on,” or so they say. I have looked into the frightened eyes of many patients in critical situations and told them as I’m hiding my own fears or insecurities, “You fight like heck. Don’t give up yet.” ⁣
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I truly believe that if I hadn’t been involved in theater I wouldn’t be the nurse that I am today. I would have never thought that so many skills I learned both on stage and behind would be transferable to healthcare. But they are. ⁣
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So for my pic I chose the perfect mash up of nurse and actor: me in all my PPE just as the world began to go nuts last year. As I say on the floor, “the theater is leaking again.” I bet you can see it too. ⁣

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Benefits of Theater Education

Ruth King

My name is Ruth King. I currently have the honor of serving in the United States Navy as a Nuclear Field Machinist Mate and a Sub Vol. This job is known throughout all branches as being a significantly difficult and rigorous profession.
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The performing arts and, in particular, Musical Theatre, were instrumental in allowing me to experience the mental and emotional healing I needed to pursue my dream of serving in the military. And every day it helps me renew my strength and zest for life while I am here. I thank God for blessing me with the chance to get to know and practice the performing arts. It honestly helped me become a better and happier human and from there influenced everything in my life I did after. ⁣
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Doing a difficult or somewhat distasteful task? ⁣
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Sing! Dance! Afraid of reaching for your dreams? Take a leap of faith! As a very good friend of mine once said, “Everything will still be alright after you audition, even if you fail. There will still be sunshine and trees and oxygen outside. I promise.” ⁣
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Need to make friends or want to touch people’s lives? Reach out and take a risk! Build touch touchstones and draw others in…include them. Feel as though your world has just ended? Sing! Speak! Write! Act! Dance! Play music!

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Express yourself through art! ⁣
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Art of any kind, especially theater and music, assists the participant in validating and processing through emotion and the human experience. Performing Musical Theater and other art forms is still my ultimate dream. ⁣
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Meanwhile, every day I wake up happier and more thankful knowing that art, the dramatic and otherwise, is out there, readily available for your active participation and/or delighted spectation! To all who read this, be well and safe.⁣
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Thank you Hannah, Katharine and Ruth!

If you’d like to know about my moment when theatre not only shaped but saved me, go to: How Theatre Saved My Life

Did theatre shape your life? Maybe it was another art form? I’d love to hear about and maybe down the road, I’ll feature you too!

Looking for a FREE lessons, posters, etc? Check out my Free Stuff!

Contact me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com or DeborahBaldwin.net

How Theatre Shaped My Life

August 4, 2021 By dhcbaldwin 3 Comments

How Theatre Shaped My Life

People have asked me how theatre shaped my life. I hadn’t given it much thought until I considered my students growth through it.

Theatre gets a bum rep. Don’t you think?

People who haven’t studied it have a difficult time understanding its power. I remember seeing a football player interview where the newscaster asks him what he planned to do now that he retired. He said, “I’m going to be an actor. My girl friend is an actress. She’s going to teach me.”

Oh. My. Heavens.

No.

We theatre lovers know it’s not a weekend workshop type of experience. Actors work their whole lives. A favorite quote of mine from Bill English of the San Francisco Playhouse, “‘Theatre is like a gym for empathy. It’s where we go to build up the muscles of compassion, to practice listening and understanding and engaging with people that are not just like ourselves. We practice sitting down, paying attention and learning from other people’s actions. We practice caring.”

I asked some students of mine to share how theatre shaped their life. Here are their thoughts.

How Theatre Shaped My Life

Matt Kimbel

I’m Mat Kimbel. I’m in college working towards becoming a theatre teacher. After working under the direction of Mrs. Baldwin for six years, there’s no denying that she influenced my decision to become a theatre teacher. ⁣
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I found theatre when life dealt me a hand I was struggling to handle. 📌 I had just begun developing seizures as a result of being born with Cerebral Palsy (CP). Growing up with CP presented its own set of struggles, which at this point in time was my mental and physical health.

I wasn’t eating or hydrating or sleeping. I wasn’t doing well at school. I didn’t have many friends. I was battling depression at an extremely young age. ⁣
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👉 During this time, my doctors prescribed several meds. most of which caused me to lash out, be angry and crude to people. Doctors suggested I play sports to try and release all of these volatile feelings. This seemed like the perfect solution. However, after participating in several sports, I struggled to keep up. I wasn’t finding what I was looking for. ⁣
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After a few months of searching, my grandma suggested that I try theatre. 🎭🎭 My initial reaction was “Theatre? Frolic around on a stage, wear makeup, sing songs and pretend to be someone they aren’t?” Grandma kept insisting and got me to audition. Now, I can honestly say there is nothing I would rather do. ⁣
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Once I got involved in theatre, my life completely changed. It’s like a light went off in my head. 💡I stopped being angry and lashing out. I started doing better in school. I started actually eating, to enjoy life. It led to me to taking voice lessons, choir and expanding my interests.

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⁣When I was bullied everyday and my life at home wasn’t the best, 😊 it was theatre which kept me motivated during some of the roughest times. ⁣⁣

👉👉I wouldn’t be the person I am today without theatre. I can’t imagine what my life would be like if I didn’t find it. You never know what doors you can open until you try. ⁣

How Theatre Shaped My Life

Mahogany Thomas

As a pastor, drama is present within my ministry in many ways. The lessons I learned while acting on empathy, connection and authenticity resonate deeply and are timeless. Projection, stage presence, eye-contact, and improvisation are all traits that essential to my profession.

Since I am often found in many places speaking in front of people, the practical lessons of drama are also fundamental. Likewise, I have a LOVE of preaching, and in many ways, preaching is a monologue.

This means the way you engage the audience and present the material matters. Your voice, storytelling, creativity, narration, and ability to captivate the audience to take them on a journey are critical in both the structure of my sermons and my delivery. ⁣
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Drama education empowers its students to see not only themselves but one another with empathy. This is how you cultivate authentic relationships and move through such a contentious world. Building genuine relationships with one another are foundational in a world that needs healing. Therefore I make it my duty to live with empathy, love with empathy, and teach empathy to everyone I encounter, just as my drama experience has taught me.

How Theatre Shaped My Life

Ivy Favier

I’m Ivy Favier, a performer, composer, and artist who dreams of becoming a teacher. I was a student of Mrs. B. for 5 years, and I know it was she who inspired my dream.⁣
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I met Mrs. B. in 5th Grade Musical Theatre class. I was shy and introverted as a child, and I remember being a little intimidated at first. She was so full of enthusiasm and vigor, and gave so much to her students, who gave so much back in return. She expected something of me, and I was going to have to dig deep to find it. ⁣
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She pushed me just hard enough, challenged me to step out of the shadows and find my light. She made me feel safe and supported, showing me that it was ok to look silly and make mistakes. She encouraged me to speak up, reach out, make friends, and take risks.⁣
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After that, I “caught the bug.” I auditioned and performed with many theatre companies across CO, took workshops, and attended summer camps.⁣
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How Theatre Shaped My Life

As a TA for Mrs. B’s classes, I admired the way she interacted with her students. She taught them the value of theatre not in an academic way, but in a playful way. She made it real and relatable for them. This inspired me.⁣
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🎭 My latest theatre endeavor is in Playback Theatre, a form of improv. —audience members tell stories from their lives and the actors interpret them on stage. This challenged the way I think about theatre. I now realize how our stories are all connected. Playback strengthened my listening skills, creativity, and empathy in my theatre and non-theatre life.⁣
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I would be an entirely different person without theatre. I might still be that shy little girl, too afraid to step out of the shadows. Theatre gave me my own voice and power. It gave me courage. I learned I must leap in order to fly. If I fall, I can pick myself up and try again. It’s always worth it. Theatre taught me that. ⁣❤️

Thank you Matt, Mahogany and Ivy!

If you’d like to know about my moment when theatre not only shaped but saved my life, go to: How Theatre Saved My Life

Do you have an experience about how theatre shaped your life? I’d love to hear about and maybe down the road, I’ll feature you too!

Contact me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com or DeborahBaldwin.net

Happy Super Hero Day!

April 28, 2021 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

April 28 is Super Hero Day!

Who established Super Hero Day?

National Superhero Day was founded by Marvel Comics in 1995. Now, every year since its birth on April 28, 1995, people come together annually on this day to celebrate all their favorite heroes. No matter if your fav heroes are fictional or real, this is the day to be thankful for them.

Well, how fun!

When I was a child, Superman wasn’t near as popular as he is today. Now super heroes are everywhere.

Why should I teach about Super Heroes?

According to Brittanica.com, during the late 1930’s to 1950’s, the Golden Age of Comic Books were created. Modern comic books were first published and rapidly increased in popularity among the masses. The first Super Hero ever was created in 1936? The superhero was named Phantom, and he started with his own comic strip in a U.S. newspaper. This was the first known beginnings of a published superhero, and now there are hundreds of well-known heroes that everyone loves.

The superhero archetype was created and many well-known characters were introduced, including Superman, Batman, Captain Marvel, Captain America, and Wonder Woman. Most superheroes served as a figure who inspired hope. This hero could save us all from dark and difficult times. Superhero stories promote the ideas of peace, safety and freedom. Some experts consider this message a necessary reassurance in difficult times. The message isn’t about a country succeeding, but recognition that there are others with similar hope for a peaceful future.

Students love to design a Super Hero costume. Here are a few pointers:

Figure out the color scheme of the costume. Usually, the whole costume should include 3 or fewer colors/shades only. This helps ensure that the costume does not distract from your superhero. It will also make it easier for you to replicate the look in a comic. Think of your superhero’s powers, motivations, and backstory. Lighter colors tend to indicate heroism, while darker colors indicate a conflicted nature; rich colors point toward sophistication, while bright colors tend to reveal youthful energy. If you’d like to read more about costume design, see my post: Your Secret Teaching Allies–Super Heroes
Classic superheroes tend to dress in some combination of red, blue, and yellow, which can denote energy and determination. A mix of black, grey, and green, though, could denote mysterious and naturalistic qualities.
Nail down the basic costume before accessorizing it.Design the actual outfit first, before figuring out the logo, or whether it will include a mask, cape, etc. Once you have designed your base costume, it gives you a blank slate to work with. Feel free to take cues from iconic superhero costumes, but be sure to refine them into your own creation. Skin-tight, full-coverage bodysuits tend to be the standard base layer for male superheroes, while female heroes often show a bit more skin. You don’t have to follow in this tradition, but body-hugging base layers do provide a clean palette for accessorizing.

What Color Scheme Should I Use?

Figure out the color scheme of the costume. Usually, the whole costume should include 3 or fewer colors/shades only. This helps ensure that the costume does not distract from your superhero. It will also make it easier for you to replicate the look in a comic. Think of your superhero’s powers, motivations, and backstory. Lighter colors tend to indicate heroism, while darker colors indicate a conflicted nature; rich colors point toward sophistication, while bright colors tend to reveal youthful energy.
Classic superheroes tend to dress in some combination of red, blue, and yellow, which can denote energy and determination. A mix of black, grey, and green, though, could denote mysterious and naturalistic qualities.

What About a Logo?

Nail down the basic costume before accessorizing it. Design the actual outfit first, before figuring out the logo, or whether it will include a mask, cape, etc. Once you have designed your base costume, it gives you a blank slate to work with. Feel free to take cues from iconic superhero costumes, but be sure to refine them into your own creation. Skin-tight, full-coverage bodysuits tend to be the standard base layer for male superheroes, while female heroes often show a bit more skin. You don’t have to follow in this tradition, but body-hugging base layers do provide a clean palette for accessorizing.
Consider if a cape is right for your hero. While capes are often considered synonymous with superheroes, plenty of famous ones — like Iron Man and Wolverine, for instance — go without them. Capes can help accentuate motion or indicate flight (think Superman), or add a layer of mystery (as with Batman). However, they can also be an unnecessary complication for a well-designed costume. If you can’t think of a good reason why your hero should have a cape — either for practical (e.g., concealment, protection) or expressive (e.g., flair, royalty) purposes — it may be best to exclude it.
Create a memorable logo or other distinctive element. Superman, Batman, and Spider-Man are arguably the three most famous superheroes, and each has a simple chest emblem — the ‘S’ shield, bat, and spider — that immediately identifies them. Don’t obsess over the small details of a totally-awesome costume before you’ve nailed down the iconic logo, symbol, color, etc. Make sure it’s easy to recognize and repeat, and that it can adapt to variations on your design. Brainstorm logo ideas based on the hero’s name, origins, or powers: in the last case, for instance, consider the lightning bolt used for the Flash.

My Super Hero Drama Lessons

If you’d like some drama lessons with super heroes as the focus, I have several here: DramaMommaSpeaks and also in my Payhip store at: Super Heroes

One lesson I developed focuses on storytelling. Using postcards as a springboard for a story, students take elements from the postcards they randomly choose. But, there is a secret requirement which is LOADS of Fun. You can learn about Storytelling with Super Heroes here: Storytelling with Super Heroes Postcards

Another lesson students enjoy is Costume Design with Super Heroes. In this lesson, students study costume design and learn a bit about the characteristics of a super hero costume. Then they design one costume plus write a letter explaining their choices. You can find this lesson here: Costume Design with Super Heroes

If you want further study, try movement with Super Heroes! These movement exercises are a great way to begin or end your class celebrating national super hero day. Word of warning–your student may leave class with a “zap” so if you are okay with that, you are good! Tableau and Movement with Super Heroes

I think Super Heroes and Super Heroes Day is here to stay. It does me good to see children imitating them, especially our girls. Here are my two granddaughters having fun as Super Heroes. I doubt either of them have seen many television shows or movies with Super Heroes in them since they are so young, but they know enough to understand super heroes protect people and try to make the world a better place. At this point in their short lives, I think that’s a good start.

Have you taught with a super hero theme? How did it go for you? I’d love to hear about it. Contact me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com or DeborahBaldwin.net

Drama Games for the Introvertive Student

March 16, 2021 By dhcbaldwin 6 Comments

Drama Games for the Introvertive Student

Is that possible? Drama students can be shy? I know it’s tough to believe, because we are a noisy bunch. So let’s talk about drama games for the introvertive student.

For various reasons, the answer is a resounding “yes!”

Recently, I read a post from a teacher lamenting about this on a Drama Teachers Group Facebook. Her shy students wouldn’t budge from their seats no matter what she tried–and these were fifth and sixth graders.

Why Drama Games Help Students Feel Safe Enough to Participate

After teaching for thirty-eight some years, as you might imagine, I taught all types of students from the most enthusiastic class to the smallest and most shy. Honestly, I can figure out a class dynamic fairly fast, because of my experiences.

Do you need help?

Like adults, students are primarily afraid of the unknown. Aren’t we all? Additionally, I’ve had adults who desperately want to participate in a play but scare themselves off before they even sign up for an audition. Students might have older siblings telling them embarrassing stories about their experiences in a drama class.

Everyone Makes Mistakes

Or they’ve seen bloopers on Youtube.com and put themselves in place of the performers and suddenly “everyone” sees the mistakes. Little do they know the performers actually shared their bloopers for the express purpose of getting likes. You never know what your students think a drama class looks like.

My advice is to dispel any myths about drama class which they might have accepted as truth. Myths of drama class are: we always act, lines must always be memorized, classmates will laugh and ridicule our performance, we will be asked to do something embarrassing, etc. Generally, students worry about their image at all times whether they are in a drama class or in the hallway. The last thing the teacher wants to do is feed that anxiety.

The best way to de-mystify their worries is by starting very slowly. Use drama games and exercises in which everyone can have success. Or if that seems too much for them, start with technical theater lessons first.

Drama Games for Shy Students

Here are a few of my go-to drama games for the introvertive or reluctant student:

“Alliteration Name” Game--A lot of teachers use this game, however in drama class, we are a bit more expressive. I expect students to come up with word which describes you realistically or unrealistically. They must add a gesture of some kind and they can choose the rate of delivery for the line (fast or slow), add an accent and certainly choose some emotion to convey through the line. I demonstrate first that gives the students an example of what their interpretation should look like. If a student is stumped when their turn comes up, I direct them and even demonstrate an idea. Usually, that’s all the reluctant needs. Once they have a little success with the exercise, they see where they can fit into the class.
“Copy Me”–I like this game because it’s a simple premise: the student copies the tone, inflection and body position of the person before them. Then they do their own version of the same line. Suddenly, the worry about performing is minimized. How hard is it to imitate someone? We do it all the time whether we realize it or not. We pick up vocal inflections, a person’s delivery and even their gestures. Think you don’t? Have you ever mocked someone or demonstrated to someone how something was said to you? Yup.

More Games and Exercises for Shy Students

“This is not a hanger”-–This exercise relies on a person’s imagination, however the challenge is very focused. We just come up with something which is the same shape as a hanger. It could be large (pyramid) or small (earring), used (an iron) or enjoyed (a martini.) You do need a hanger for the students to see. Go around the class and when they are ready to participate, instruct them to say, “This is not a hanger, it’s a _____________.” There is only one rule– once that thing is suggested, no one can suggest it a second time.

2. “Lean and Leave”—This exercise strengthens the imagination and uses the body for demonstration. Person A pretends to lean on something such as a wall and must be able to hold the position indefinitely. Person B goes to Person A and leans against Person A in some particular way. (For instance, if Person A is pretending to lean on a wall with one hand, Person B might rest their elbow on the back of Person A. Person A asks Person B, “Are you ready?” because Person B must be able to lean indefinitely without Person A there. Person A steps away. Person C goes to Person B and leans against them in another unusual way (for instance, they lean with their back against Person B). Person B asks the same question of Person C and so forth.

Everyone can participate in this exercise. It’s very engaging and different. I always challenge students to lean on different planes—high, medium or low, or putting their feet up on the other person and so on. I’m known to instruct the new leaning person to turn his head or bend an arm to show the difference in the look—just like those sculpture people.

Using Drama Games to Break Through Student Hesitation

3.”Tableau”—Though not a drama game per se, any student can have success with tableau. Furthermore, it takes very little investment on the part of the student. Students work in a group (that’s a real plus), they choose a story to demonstrate (for instance they show the beginning of the story, its middle and end) and there are no spoken lines. Ultimately, they merely freeze in place as part of the tableau. If the students are feeling comfortable, take this exercises a little farther by tapping each student and allowing them to say something as the character. Again, keep it nice and friendly.

Building Connections Through Play: Mind Meld & Drama Circles

“Mind Meld”—The goal is for two people to say things together until they reach the same word. It begins by one person saying “one,” the second person saying “two,” and then both people counting to three together. They then say anything at all – a person, place, idea, concept, phrase: anything.

Then we think what the common thing between those two things or associated with those two things would be. We repeat the one, two, three and try to use the two previously stated things to arrive at a third, common one. We keep trying each time until we say the same word. When we finally arrive at the same word we sing and dance to “It was a mind meld, it was a mind meld, it happens all the time, it was a mind meld. ” Sometimes it is played with the same pair of people all the way through until they connect on a word. Sometimes the group can opt in and out and it is played between the team.

Warm-Up Games for Quick Engagement

2. Drama Circles—Drama circles are a wonderful way to involve your more shy or reluctant students. Please your students in a circle (usually we sit on the floor). Pass out a card to each student. Each card tells them a part of a story. Their job is to tell it to the rest of the circle. You can even give one card for a small group who dramatize the story with movement, sound or tableaux. Pick up this resource for an example: Drama Circle

3. Group Based Improvisation Exercises–Once your students appear comfortable with your class, you might try these improvisation exercises which are still a type of drama game. If it were me and this was the beginning of the year, I would try one the second week of classes. Grab it here.

If you are looking for more warm up exercises or games, check out my Instagram page @dramamommaspeaks

Where Do I Go From Here?

If you are seeking more advice or drama games from an experienced drama teacher and director, check out these posts of mine:

The Ultimate Guide for Drama Teachers: Creative Movement? Are you Kidding Me?

Three Lessons to Engage Your Drama Class Using Differentiation

Drama Lessons for Middle Grades from an Award Winning Drama Teacher

Come join my monthly newsletter! I give advice, tips, suggestions, announce new drama resources I’ve created in the month and a FREE warm-up exercise. You can join here DramaMommaSpeaks newletter

Need a lesson you can use tomorrow, check out this one Drama Class: A Playwriting Unit or How to Help Your Students Feel Seen

Click here: We’re Live! Radio Theater #101

7 Reasons to Relax: Classroom Decor Made Easy!

August 19, 2020 By dhcbaldwin 2 Comments

7 Reasons to Relax: Classroom Decor Made Easy!

You’ve arrived at this blog post because you want an answer to– 7 reasons to relax: classroom decor made easy! I think I can help. Although this post was written several years ago, much of it is still as important as it was then. So, read on…

In my opinion, there is one thing about this pandemic which is/was good. Celebrities have been de-mystified. Since everyone is quarantined at home, suddenly we are all alike.

We see people we admire on television or movies or the stage in a whole different light. Gone is the lighting, makeup and hair stylist. When you’ve watched these folks day in and day out for years, you begin to think they are super humans with flawless skin, perfect hair and toned bodies. You expect their homes to be decorated with the latest style and elegantly.

That hasn’t always been the case now that the pandemic has kept most of us at home. I watch Good Morning America every day and I love seeing the newscasters who are televising from home. In particular, Ginger Zee and Robin Roberts appear to have rather normal homes. Ginger usually televises outside or near a window. Robin televises from her basement. The first week, the wall behind her was plain white. I think it’s painted blue now.

7 Reasons to Relax: Classroom Decor Made Easy!

Robin trades out photos people have sent her after they appeared on GMA with her. Lara Spencer televises from home with her darling dog, Reba who has calmed down considerably since the pandemic began. Lara’s house is beautiful, but I think that’s to be expected since she has an interest in interior design It’s stylish, colorful and but not over the top. I appreciate that.

This is leading me somewhere, honest.

I appreciate finding famous people quotes. Just like watching all these celebrities in their homes as they televise, the quotes give me some insight into the real person, not their public image. Many times you can gather some insight into their growth mindset.

I have a blog post about growth mindset here: Growth Mindset in the Study of Famous Theater Artists

The easiest way to decorate your classroom is with posters. Here are seven reasons which you could use from famous stage actors.

These artists are in the spot light all the time, so it’s easy to find something new they can be quoted for saying.
Use their quotes in a class discussion.
Many are fabulous role models for our students (see Viola Davis and Lin Manuel Miranda, for example.)
They are timely–You can use them all year and they never have to be switched out for others.
If you find the quotes yourself, they are free to use. Check brainyquote.com for ideas.
This is a unique idea. No one else in your school will have them so students won’t see them repeated in anyone else’s room.
They can be used a variety of theater exercises or projects–Use a quote to devise a theater piece or in an improvisation. Wouldn’t that be neat?

Viola Davis

“Your ability to adapt to failure, and navigate your way out of it, absolutely 100 percent makes you who you are.”

Lin Manuel Miranda

“The fun for me in collaboration is, one, working with other people just makes you smarter; that’s proven.”

By the way, here’s a free poster for your use: Lin-Manuel Miranda Poster

Daveed Diggs

The act of being nice to somebody at Starbucks is actually a huge thing. It’s a real change you can effect in somebody’s life every day.”

7 Reasons to Relax: Classroom Decor Made Easy!

Meryl Streep

“The gift of human beings is that we have the power of empathy.”

Benedict Cumberbatch

“If you have an over-preoccupation with perception and trying to please people’s expectations, then you can go mad.”

If you are looking for posters for your classroom, I’ve got several. (I could never find what I wanted for my classroom, so I made them myself.) Click HERE.

7 Reasons to Relax: Classroom Decor Made Easy!

Idina Menzel

“I wish I had read more and majored in literature rather than theatre. I think I would have been a better artist for it. I am trying to play catch-up now.”

Denzel Washington

“I’d be more frightened by not using whatever abilities I’d been given. I’d be more frightened by procrastination and laziness.”

I think it’s a great hobby collecting quotes of all kinds from famous people or books. They lift your mood, help you to express your thoughts, inspire you, give you a different perspective, costs nothing and are tremendously interesting because you select the ones which speak to you. You should try collecting quotes. I have one friend who collects book passages that she loves and notates them in a journal. She’s done this for many years. I wonder how many journals she has filled?

In-depth Investigation of a Remarkable Person

I ran on to the website: technokids.com with an excellent reason to study people and use quotes as a stepping off point.

An in-depth investigation into a remarkable person can fit into almost all curriculum areas: language arts, history, social studies, science, art, or computer studies. Here are some ideas:

Write a Life Story: Practice expository writing. Write an engaging life story that offers insight into a person. Captivate reader’s attention.
Celebrate a Historical Figure: Develop a deeper understanding of a historical period. Research the contributions of a historical figure. Explain their importance to the past and influence on future events.
Acknowledge a Hero: Inspire others with the accomplishments of personal hero, role model, mentor, or newsmaker. Detail their successes and challenges. Outline reasons their efforts are admirable.
Investigate Scientific Contributions: Appreciate amazing research findings and inventions. Outline the path to discovery of a scientist. Explain how their work has improved the lives of others.
Appreciate the Arts: Learn about an art period or artistic style by studying a famous artist. Examine their artwork. Describe its meaning and how it influenced other artists.
Develop Word Processing Skills: Introduce advanced word processing skills in a computer studies course. Learn to customize styles, insert a table of contents, draw a graphic organizer, organize data using tables, adjust page layout, and add bookmarks.

If you are looking for more theater artist quotes, I have two products Growth Mindset Posters for this express purpose.

7 Reasons to Relax: Classroom Decor Made Easy!

Here is a new set! Drama Class Posters

Each product includes:

This is a set of 24 growth mindset, the arts and character education posters which highlights the subject by quoting famous theater artists. In addition, the set includes suggested uses such as class discussion, improvisation or for an essay. These posters can be displayed all year long or along with a particular theme.

7 Reasons to Relax: Classroom Decor Made Easy!

These quotes speak about being your authentic self, how to handle failure, what makes the arts and theater special, being versatile, loving yourself and resiliency.

Although these were created for secondary classes, an elementary class could use these as well. The teacher is the expert as to which posters their students should study. Check out: Growth Mindset Posters

I heartily suggest you or your students collect quotes which speak to them. One of my favorites by Ann Landers is, ” People of integrity expect to be believed. They also know time will prove them right and are willing to wait.” Boy, that’s me all over although I don’t like the waiting part….

I’ve just created pendants for the theater classroom! You can find them here: Posters and Pendants Theater Artists Quotes

What is a favorite quote of yours? I’d love to hear it. Contact me at dhcbaldwin@gmail.com or DeborahBaldwin.net

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More Games and Exercises for Shy Students

Using Drama Games to Break Through Student Hesitation

Building Connections Through Play: Mind Meld & Drama Circles

Warm-Up Games for Quick Engagement

Where Do I Go From Here?

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7 Reasons to Relax: Classroom Decor Made Easy!

7 Reasons to Relax: Classroom Decor Made Easy!

The easiest way to decorate your classroom is with posters. Here are seven reasons which you could use from famous stage actors.

7 Reasons to Relax: Classroom Decor Made Easy!

7 Reasons to Relax: Classroom Decor Made Easy!

In-depth Investigation of a Remarkable Person

7 Reasons to Relax: Classroom Decor Made Easy!

7 Reasons to Relax: Classroom Decor Made Easy!

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