Afraid to Teach Devising Theater in Your Classroom?
Afraid to Teach Devising Theater in Your Classroom? If the words “Let’s devise a scene!” make your students stare back at you like deer in headlights—you’re not alone. Many teachers are afraid to teach devising theater in the classroom. I, for one, understand! It can feel abstract or a little chaotic at first. To be […]
Why Drama Circles Work in the Elementary Classroom
Why Drama Circles Work in the Elementary Classroom “How Drama Circles work in the Elementary Classroom” is a topic that’s close to my heart—mostly because you are far “more fortunate than I ever was. When I began teaching, I had absolutely no resources for the theater classes I taught. I was constantly tweaking college-level acting […]
Readers Theater: The Secret Tool for Social Studies
Readers Theater: The Secret Tool for Social Studies I wanted to write “Readers Theater: The Secret Tool for Social Studies” because so many teachers are searching for new ways to keep students engaged in social studies. When most teachers hear “Readers Theater,” they picture ELA fluency, reading or drama class, or a fun break from […]
How Sound Design Brings Characters to Life
How Sound Design Brings Characters to Life Have you ever stopped to think about how much a single sound—or even the tone of a voice—shapes how we feel about a character? I always notice the sounds of the film–the soft purr of a Disney heroine and the Lion in the film of Wizard of Oz. […]
Who Is Springboard to Action and Why It Matters
Every so often, someone reaches out to me and asks if I can help spread the word about an organization that’s making a real difference in theater education. I’m always willing to consider it. That’s part of my mission statement. When I see a program that opens doors for students and inspires teachers, I’m always […]
Beyond Acting: The Value of Other Art Forms in Theater Class
Beyond Acting: The Value of Other Art Forms in Theater Class When I was a young girl, I studied piano and played it for ten years (you’d never know it to hear me now, however). I wanted to perform in theater, but it was discouraged by my parents until they realized I was serious about […]