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Theater Books Every Drama Teacher Should Own

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Theater Books Every Drama Teacher Should Know

From time to time, I read of teachers having  funds left nearing the end of the year.  They are frantically trying to spend any left over funds in their budget.  If you aren’t familiar with this kind of fervor.   Please know this–many times if a teacher does not use up their budget, it is given to someone else! And we don’t want that to happen, now do we?

Usually, I suggest items such as rehearsal boxes, makeup kits, a light tree, etc.  But today I’m blogging only about books I recommend you collect for your teaching library.  Here is a list of my ” Theater Books Every Drama Teacher Should Own”.

When I began teaching like a hundred years ago, there weren’t too many resources from which to teach.  Of course, we had play anthologies, but nothing much for the day-to-day class.  No one had ventured into teaching young students yet.  I mean, this was 1980!  If you’d like more information about that journey, check out: How to Make Your Drama Class Successful-Lessons Learned from 38 Years of Teaching High School.

Now you can find many books focusing on particular grade levels.  I’ve included several for each grade level here.

Theater Books Every Drama Teacher Should Own

Theater Books Every Drama Teacher Should Own

 Theater Games for the Classroom by Viola Spolin–This theater book is absolutely essential for you (and a personal favorite of mine), especially if you are teaching elementary or middle school students.  This best-selling book by Viola Spolin offers the most comprehensive theater instruction for all types of students, from small children to young adults. It includes over 130 theater games, plus exercises and instructional strategies. First developed by Spolin, the originator of modern improvisational theater techniques, these games have been tried and tested for over fifty years. I’ll tell you a secret–most of the books that are published about warm up games and exercises used this one as a stepping off point for theirs!  In other words, go to the original source.

Theater Books Every Drama Teacher Should Own

2. Multicultural Plays for Children Volume 2 by Pamela Gerke–When I taught middle school students a pre-elective course, I used several plays from this theater book collection. These excellent dramatic adaptations of 10 folktales from various countries and cultures will help fill that void. Most importantly I think each play is based on a story from the oral tradition that has retained.  Consequently through many alterations across time, these plays share a core of truth about human nature and life.

Furthermore, this book includes a substantial introductory section that addresses many concerns: adapting a play for various cast sizes; changing gender, setting, and length; vocal-projection exercises and theater games; plus many useful suggestions for production.

Also, each play has detailed directions for creating sets, props, costumes.  In addition, it includes a realistic timetable for rehearsals and other production needs, and a pronunciation guide. Talk about really helpful for a teacher!  Music is included, as is extensive information about some cultures that will extend and enrich the experience for children. Included:  The Comedy of Errors, Hamlet, Macbeth, The Merchant of Venice, Othello, Romeo and Julie, and The Tempest, etc. 

Theater Books Every Drama Teacher Should Own

Inspire Movement Through Story and Song

3. Lesson Plans for Creative Dance: Connecting with Literature, Arts and Music by Sally Carline–Children love to express themselves through movement—and with this great new resource, you can guide them through a range of actions and dances that will help them develop both physically and mentally. This theater book is a resource for physical educators, classroom teachers, and dance specialists as well as a useful supplement to college level elementary education courses.
Additionally, author Sally Carline has tested and refined the creative movement activities that she has prepared for educators and for preservice teachers. She includes background material that will ground you in understanding how to best teach and incorporate movement activities in a variety of classes and settings. Check out this blog post for more information: Creative Movement: Elementary and Middle School Teachers – Ready to Move?
Beautiful Stories from Shakespeare for Children

  4.Beautiful Stories for Children by Edith Nesbit -When I taught an introduction to Shakespeare course, I used this theater book with  middle schoolers.  We read the stories, minus Shakespeare’s play versions. William Shakespeare is arguably the most pivotal and widely read figure in the history of English literature. This comprehensive collection highlights some of the bard’s best works. Plus, they have been adapted to be more easily read and digestible for children.

Included are the stories of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Tempest, As You Like It, The Winter’s Tale, King Lear, Twelfth Night, Much Ado About Nothing, Romeo and Juliet, Pericles, Hamlet, Cymbeline and Macbeth. Also, included are the stories of The Comedy of Errors, The Merchant of Venice, Timon of Athens, Othello, The Taming of the Shrew, Measure for Measure, Two Gentlemen of Verona, All’s Well That Ends Well.

Theater Books Every Drama Teacher Should Own

Acting from the Inside Out: Tools for Voice, Body, and Imagination

5. Building a Character–Building a Character by Constantin Stanislavski is one of the three volumes that make up Stanislavski’s The Acting Trilogy. An Actor Prepares explores the inner preparation an actor must undergo in order to explore a role to the full. In this volume, Sir John Gielgud said, this great director “found time to explain a thousand things that have always troubled actors and fascinated students.”

Building a Character discusses the external techniques of acting: the use of the body, movement, diction, singing, expression, and control. Plus, it describes the preparation that precedes actual performance. This theater book includes extensive discussions of Gogol’s The Inspector General and Shakespeare’s Othello. Lastly, Sir Paul Scofield called Creating a Role “immeasurably important” for the actor.

Additionally, If you are ready to teach Stanislavski’s methods, check out: Theater of Acting Unit The Konstantin Stanislavski Acting Styles Method Memory

Theater Books Every Drama Teacher Should Own

 

6.  We’re Live! Radio Theater #101 by Deborah Baldwin–Written by me, this theater book is the ultimate resource for drama teachers looking to introduce students to the exciting world of radio theater. Designed for grades 2–12, this book walks educators through the process of creating, rehearsing, and performing radio plays. And with no costumes or sets required!  Inside, you’ll find student-friendly scripts, production tips, voice acting techniques, and simple sound effect ideas that bring stories to life using only imagination and sound.

Whether you’re tight on time, space, or resources, We’re Live! offers a creative and flexible way to engage students in storytelling, collaboration, and performance. It’s perfect for in-class use, distance learning, or even podcast projects. Lastly, my book guides and empowers teachers to step into the role of radio director and help students shine—mic in hand and voices ready!

7. Curtains Up! Theatre Games and Storytelling by Robert Rubinstein– If you teach students in upper elementary and middle school, this would be one of the first books I’d suggest to you.  I learned about it at a MSTA convention (sponsored by Educational Theatre Association) many years ago. Theatre games help to develop students’ skills in storytelling, improvisation, and public speaking. They also build confidence, teamwork, and vocabulary. This is a collection of theatre games which have been classroom tested. Try the collaborative and fun activity “The Monster with Three Heads.” Pick up a copy of this exercise here: Three Headed Monster. I guarantee you, your students will love it!

Looking for free lessons?  Check out: Free Stuff!

What theater books would you suggest to a theater teacher?  I’d love to include it in a blog post planned for the near future.  Just contact me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

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

Woman behind DramaMommaSpeaks

Teach Through the Arts for Healthier Students

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Teach Through the Arts for Healthier Students

If you’re a teacher, you already know how students light up when they’re given the chance to create. I was one of those students. Whether it’s acting out a scene, drawing a character sketch, or composing a soundscape, the arts tap into something deeply human.  But beyond building imagination and collaboration, there’s another reason to champion the arts in your classroom: teach through the arts for healthier students. Creative activities don’t just enrich learning—they support emotional regulation, reduce stress, and promote well-being in ways that traditional methods often can’t.

I jokingly tell friends that, “I’m going to see a live musical tonight to boost my mental health.”  I coined,  “arts vitamins” for these experiences.  Although anecdotal, I can prove how much they help me.  I have a devil of a time sleeping through the night.  However, whenever I attend any sort of arts event I sleep like a little baby that night.  Seeing the arts live always moves me most, but even when I watch a performance on screen—whether in a theater or at home—I still feel uplifted. One of my favorites “arts vitamins” to view at home is: nattheaathome.org

Teach Through the Arts for Healthier Students

In 2019, the World Health Organization reviewed over 3,000 studies exploring the connection between the arts and health. Their conclusion? The arts play a major role in the prevention of illness, the promotion of health, and the management and treatment of disease.

Why Theater Education Matters: Building Key Life Skills Sub Plans Drama

Teach Through the Arts for Healthier Students

For years, the arts were often seen as enrichment—something extra to sprinkle in after the “real” academic work was done. But research continues to prove otherwise: the arts are foundational to student wellness and development.

Creative experiences directly impact the brain and body in ways that support learning and health. When students engage in activities like acting, drawing, singing, or dancing, they’re doing far more than expressing themselves—they’re nurturing their nervous systems and emotional intelligence. Have you ever had to debate why your theater class is important?  Check out this resource.  Why Theater Education Matters

Teach Through the Arts for Healthier Students

The Art of Feeling Better

Here’s how the arts support student health:

  • Lower cortisol levels: Engaging in creative activities can reduce the stress hormone cortisol, leading to calmer, more focused students—especially important in high-pressure school environments.

  • Improve emotional regulation: Artistic expression gives students safe ways to explore and manage emotions. Acting out scenes, drawing feelings, or writing monologues helps them process big feelings in a constructive way.

  • Enhance communication and social connection: Group projects, performances, and critiques all help students develop empathy, active listening, and collaboration skills. These are critical for both classroom success and life beyond school.

  • Strengthen the immune system: When students are less stressed and more engaged, their bodies respond positively. Lower stress levels have been linked to better immune function and overall well-being.

As a teacher, you’re not just boosting creativity—you’re giving students tools for healthier lives. Every artistic moment in your classroom is a step toward a more balanced, resilient learner. Looking for a FREE lesson from me?  Pick up my FREE Nicole Scherzinger Biography Lesson here.
Teach Through the Arts for Healthier Students

When Art Becomes Medicine: A Swiss Town’s Prescription for Creativity

If you need proof that the arts are more than just enrichment, look to the small town of Biel/Bienne, Switzerland, where doctors are literally prescribing museum visits to patients dealing with stress, depression, or burnout.

In a groundbreaking pilot program launched in early 2024, patients can receive a “cultural prescription” as part of their treatment plan. These prescriptions allow free access to local art museums, encouraging individuals to explore creativity and beauty as a form of healing. Inspired by similar programs in Canada and Belgium, this initiative is a bold recognition of what many educators already know: art heals.

Additionally, patients reported improvements in mood, motivation, and perspective—just by spending time in creative spaces. The program doesn’t just serve as a mental health intervention; it also builds connection, curiosity, and engagement with the community.

Teach Through the Arts for Healthier Students

Classroom Connection: What This Looks Like in Action

Students who are struggling with anxiety might find solace in writing a monologue or performing a scene. Or you can play it safe and do a group performance  which can build confidence in shy students. Also, reflective art journals help process emotions. Even a simple daily sketch or a “freeze frame” tableau can reset the tone of a restless classroom. Want a resource for this purpose?  Check out:  Tableau for the End of the School Year

These aren’t just fun activities—they are tools that support mental and emotional health.

Teach Through the Arts for Healthier Students

The ‘Art for Everyone’ Movement: Expanding Access, One Step at a Time

When I was researching this topic, I learned about this movement on  CBS Sunday Morning.  The Art for Everyone movement reminds us that art isn’t just for professional artists or elite programs—it’s for everyone. Similarly, this growing initiative advocates for accessible, inclusive arts education in schools, libraries, hospitals, and communities. It partners with artists, educators, and civic leaders to make sure students—no matter their background—get a chance to create and express. I’ve blogged about this subject in the past from a different perspective.  You can read it here: This is What the Arts do for You 

You’re part of that movement every time you make space for creativity in your classroom. Don’t know how to do so?  Check out:  How Do I Use Arts Integration in the Classroom?

Teach Through the Arts for Healthier Students

The Research Is In: Arts Build Confidence and Well-Being

As an arts advocate for over forty years, I have first hand experience at the positive results the arts encourage in our students. In fact, I’ve never known them not to boost a student’s confidence.   However, in a recent study from China focused on college students found something powerful: students who participated in fine arts classes reported higher levels of psychological well-being. But that’s not all—what made the biggest difference was the boost in creativity and self-confidence those classes sparked.

In other words, the more students engaged with the arts, the more they believed in their ability to create and solve problems—and the better they felt mentally and emotionally. Yahoo!

Furthermore, this matters at every level of education. As teachers, when we teach through the arts, we give students space to explore their creativity, we’re also helping them grow into more confident, resilient individuals. It’s not just about developing artistic skills—it’s about supporting the whole person.

Final Thoughts for Teachers

When you teach through the arts, you don’t need a separate arts budget.  Nor do you need a black box theater to bring the benefits of the arts into your students’ lives. Start small. Try:

  • A short scene reading on a Friday afternoon

  • A visual reflection poster after a book unit

  • A “soundtrack” assignment for a character study

  • Or simply asking, “How can we express this concept creatively?”

When you integrate the arts, you’re not just teaching your subject—you’re nurturing your students’ health, confidence, and humanity. And that is something worth celebrating.

What arts activities do you include in your lessons?  Did you know that my masters is in creative arts learning, or arts integration?  I am very willing to create for you the lesson you need for this express purpose.  Just email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

Woman behind DramaMommaSpeaks

Exploring Social Issues Through Plays: A Guide for Middle School

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Exploring Social Issues Through Plays: A Guide for Middle School

Today, I want to reflect on the my blog post title,  exploring social issues through plays: a guide for middle School. Theater is a powerful tool for middle school students to explore and discuss social issues. By stepping into the shoes of characters dealing with real-world challenges, students develop empathy, critical thinking, and teamwork. Plays such as The Yellow Boat, Ama and the White Cranes, and The Third Wave provide age-appropriate ways to delve into complex topics, making them ideal for young performers.

The Power of Theater in the Classroom: Inspiring Change Through Stories

I believe one of our missions as teachers is to make the world a better place.  As theater teachers, we have an incredibly useful tool at our fingertips–plays or musicals.  No other art form can do what theater can do!  I think you’d agree with me that the best way to reach people is through a story. Theater is non-confrontational and provides important universal themes.

In our classrooms, students can read or perform plays just for the sure fun or experience of it.  Consequently, students can experience diverse perspectives and learn to understand others’ emotions and struggles. Plus, plays can structure an environment for discussing sensitive topics. Additionally,  theater challenges students to examine societal issues in-depth and consider their roles in creating change.

Exploring Social Issues Through Plays: A Guide for Middle School

Here are a few plays I recommend to you.  Your students could read one of these plays in your class or better yet, produce it for the public.  (That’s the real elixir.)

Exploring Social Issues Through Plays: A Guide for Middle School

My Recommendations for Middle School Reading

 1. Peer Pressure, Authority, and Group Dynamics

—The Third Wave Based on a true story, this gripping play explores the dangers of groupthink and authoritarianism. It recounts a high school teacher’s experiment to demonstrate how easily individuals can be drawn into totalitarian systems. The Wave provides a thought-provoking look at peer pressure and critical thinking, making it highly relevant for middle schoolers.

Exploring Social Issues Through Plays: A Guide for Middle School

2. Illness, Resilience, and Family

– The Yellow Boat by David Saar. This deeply moving play is based on the true story of Benjamin Saar, a young boy born with congenital hemophilia. Through his vivid imagination and artistic talent, Benjamin navigates the joys and struggles of his life, including his battle with HIV/AIDS, contracted from a blood transfusion. His journey, filled with creativity, resilience, and love, celebrates the power of art and human connection. The play is a poignant exploration of hope, loss, and the enduring spirit of a child, offering audiences a heartfelt and uplifting experience. A heartwarming and imaginative story about a young boy living with a terminal illness. This play offers an opportunity for students to explore themes of resilience, creativity, and the bonds of family.

Exploring Social Issues Through Plays: A Guide for Middle School

3. Cultural Identity and Environmental Awareness

– Ama and the  White Cranes  This is a poignant play that blends Japanese folklore with contemporary themes of resilience and tradition. It follows Ama, a skilled pearl diver, who finds herself at odds with her village’s changing ways. When a mysterious white crane begins appearing during her dives, Ama discovers it is the spirit of her late mother, guiding her to protect the ocean and its treasures from exploitation. Ama struggles to reconcile her personal desires with her duty to her heritage. The story unfolds into a beautiful tale of sacrifice, love, and the enduring bond between humanity and nature. This is a  beautiful play that introduces Japanese culture while exploring themes of courage, family, and environmental responsibility.

Timeless Stories: Exploring Empathy and Justice Through Adapted Plays

4. Bullying and Kindness

–The Hundred Dresses: This play adapted from the book of the same name,  centers on Wanda Petronski, a Polish-American girl who is ridiculed by her classmates for wearing the same faded blue dress daily. In response to the teasing, Wanda claims to own one hundred beautiful dresses at home, a statement that becomes a focal point of the narrative. The book explores themes of bullying, empathy, and the consequences of prejudice. First published in 1944, this book and story survive the test of time.

-Holes– by Louis Sachar. This play adaptation of the book of the same name, is the story of Stanley Yelnats who is wrongly accused of theft.  Stanley Yelnats is sent to Camp Green Lake, where boys dig holes daily as part of their punishment. As Stanley uncovers secrets about the camp, his family’s past, and the outlaw Kissin’ Kate Barlow, themes of justice, fate, and friendship come to light. (It seems to be out of printing as of this writing, but do check back to see if it’s re-appeared.)

Exploring Social Issues Through Plays: A Guide for Middle School

5. Leadership and Community

– The Giver: Based on Lois Lowry’s novel, this play encourages students to reflect on freedom, individuality, and the responsibilities of leadership. Set in a seemingly utopian society where pain, conflict, and choice are eliminated. Jonas, a 12-year-old boy, is chosen to inherit the role of the Receiver of Memories. The Receiver is the only individual who holds the truth of the world’s past. As he learns from The Giver, Jonas begins to see the dark truths behind his community’s controlled existence. Confronted with the weight of memory and emotion, Jonas questions whether to accept the status quo or risk everything to bring freedom and individuality back to his world. For more information, read my post–The Reasons I Love The Giver Play

Exploring Social Issues Through Plays: A Guide for Middle School

Cultivating Community and Resilience: Plays That Inspire Connection

– Seedfolks: This is a touching play adaptation of Paul Fleischman’s novel, weaving together the stories of diverse individuals in a struggling urban neighborhood. When a young girl plants a handful of beans in a vacant lot, her small act inspires others to transform the space into a thriving community garden. Each character contributes their unique voice, sharing personal struggles.  Most importantly, while they share cultural perspectives, unexpected connections arise. As the garden grows, so does the sense of hope, unity, and understanding among the neighbors. This poignant story celebrates the power of small acts to foster change and build community.

-Esperanza Rising–  This play is a heartfelt adaptation of Pam Muñoz Ryan’s acclaimed novel, following Esperanza Ortega, a privileged young girl in 1930s Mexico. When her family’s fortunes are shattered by tragedy, Esperanza and her mother are forced to flee to California.  There they work as migrant laborers. Facing the hardship of poverty, prejudice, and back-breaking labor, Esperanza learns the value of resilience, community, and hope. This powerful coming-of-age story celebrates the strength of the human spirit and the importance of staying rooted in love and compassion during times of great change.

Discussing Social Issues in the Middle School Classroom

 

Exploring Social Issues Through Plays: A Guide for Middle School

6. Diversity and Acceptance

—The Watsons Go to Birmingham--1963: Ten-year-old Kenny narrates a life-changing summer for his family. Hoping to reform troublemaking Byron, the Watsons travel to Birmingham, Alabama.  They face the tragic 1963 church bombing. This moving and humorous story, based on Christopher Paul Curtis’ novel, explores family and resilience during a pivotal moment in history.

—Bud Not Buddy–-Set in 1930s Michigan, 10-year-old Bud Caldwell, an orphan fleeing abusive foster homes, embarks on a journey to find his father. Guided by a flier for a jazz band, Herman E. Calloway and the Dusky Devastators of the Depression, Bud travels to Grand Rapids.  He believes Calloway to be his father. Along the way, Bud encounters trouble, humor, and wisdom, using his “Rules and Things” to navigate a challenging world.

Exploring Social Issues Through Plays: A Guide for Middle School

 

The Third Wave: A Powerful Lesson in Authority and Responsibility

At this point in our country’s history, it is vitally important that we dramatize stories whose themes are especially powerful to our students.  We are at a real crossroads.  It is up to us to stand and be counted.

The Third Wave is particularly impactful for middle school students. Foremost, it dives into the issues they can relate to, such as peer pressure, the influence of authority figures, and the need to belong. The play demonstrates how quickly groupthink can take over.  Additionally, it encourages students to think critically about their choices and the importance of standing up for what’s right.

By dramatizing this real-life experiment, The Third Wave helps middle school students understand the dangers of blindly following authority or succumbing to social pressures. It’s a powerful conversation starter about history, psychology, and personal responsibility. Lastly, I challenge you to select this play for production at your school–you won’t regret it!

Incorporating These Plays into the Classroom

Wondering how to introduce students to the themes and moments in history or cultural contexts? If you’re using the play in your middle school classroom,  encourage students to write reflections. For example, they could be written from their characters’ perspectives to deepen their engagement. Additionally,  you can facilitate a discussion about the play’s messages and how they relate to students’ lives.

Ready to inspire your students and tackle these critical topics? The stage is waiting!

What plays do you read aloud in your middle school classroom or have staged that held important themes and messages?  I’d love to learn about them.

Email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

Woman behind DramaMommaSpeaks

The Benefits of Music in Your Classroom: Boosting Learning

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The Benefits of Music in Your Classroom: Boosting Learning

The Benefits of Music in Your Classroom: Boosting Learning My piano practicing partner.

Today, I want to blog about boosting learning: the benefits of music in your classroom. When I was a child I had a beloved Beagle,  Frisky John, who we discovered loved to sing while I practiced the piano. I don’t know if my mother and Frisky got together and conspired to get me to practice every day, but as long as Frisky was sitting by me, I practiced! Can your dog sing on command?

With and without Frisky, I have loved music my entire life.  It is not uncommon for me to listen to several genres of music every day. Listening to  classical music to Broadway, solo singers like Joni Mitchell to pop singers like Taylor Swift enriches my day.  Above all, music is essential to my soul.  It heightens my mood, helps me concentrate, destresses and allows me to go somewhere else in my day dreams.

Nearly every day, I hear another teacher worried about their students lack of engagement in the learning.  Usually, when a teacher asks for suggestions to boost student engagement, I first suggest they integrate drama into their classroom.  It’s much easier than you think, too.  You can learn about that here: How to Excite Students With Drama Integration

The Benefits of Music in Your Classroom: Boosting Learning

The Power of Music in the Classroom: How Music Benefits Students’ Learning

I am going out on a limb here.  Also, I  think if you can incorporate music into your lessons, a teacher will find it helps to students learn.  What, you say? Hear me out. When I taught theater, no matter the grade level, I always played music in the background.  Generally, we listened to classical music which was serene. (Remember, I use music to relax me.)  Sometimes I played film scores when the students were working on their own. 

Depending upon the energy level I required from the students, I’d play particular songs that boosted students’ energy.  If they were too wound up, I’d play something more calm.  Usually, they kicked into the energy level I required. If you’d like a lessons about movement, check it out here: Movement Lesson

The Benefits of Music in Your Classroom: Boosting Learning

Enhancing Learning Through the Power of Music

Adding music to the mix can be a game-changer. Music has a unique way of activating various parts of the brain. Moreover, it can create a learning environment that fosters focus, creativity, and emotional regulation—all essential for academic success. Again, just like drama, the transition to playing music in the classroom is seamless and always fun.

Let’s explore how using music as a learning tool can help transform your classroom.

The Benefits of Music in Your Classroom: Boosting Learning

Enhances Focus and Attention

Music can be an excellent tool for focusing students’ attention.  For instance, its useful when transitioning between activities or during individual work time. According to the National Library of Medicine,  studies have shown that background music can improve concentration. By providing a steady rhythm, music supports cognitive tasks. Interestingly, this is especially true for extrovertive personalities. 

Introverts may enjoy soft classical music or instrumental tunes work well as background music. Additionally, they help students tune out distractions and channel their energy toward the task at hand. My students always enjoyed Thomas Newman’s film track from Finding Nemo.

Reduces Stress and Creates a Calming Atmosphere

For many students, school can be a source of stress, and music offers a natural way to create a calming atmosphere. For instance, when playing soft and soothing music during challenging times, it can lower stress and anxiety levels. This calming influence helps students approach learning with a relaxed mindset.  Thus, music boosts their ability to retain new information.

In an article on   www.nature.com  music in particular has been proposed as a promising tool to explore imagination, as more than 70% of music listeners indicate that they experience visual imagery when listening to music. It has even been found helpful in treating patients with traumatic event disorder. Check out this blog post about Arts Quote We Love #4–Civilizations Remembered for Their Arts

The Benefits of Music in Your Classroom: Boosting Learning

Inspires Creativity

When I begin planning a play that I will be directing, I first pick out music for the production. This helps me in two ways. First, it quickly kicks me in to the mood of the production.  Secondly because of its positive distraction, I more easily harness my ideas.   I listen to many pieces of music every day.   Consequently, while listening  my imagination soars. By seeing with my “mind’s eye”, I find it effortless to picture what the production will look and feel like.

Since music is a form of art, incorporating it into the classroom encourages students to think creatively. Music is useful in every classroom. Whether used as a warm-up for a creative writing session or as background music for art projects, music can spark students’ imaginations.

For example, playing different genres of music might inspire students to create stories. Furthermore, visual artwork can be based on the emotions or images that the music evokes. It can’t help but broaden their creative horizons. One of my favorite pieces to use is Holst’s, The Planets.

The Benefits of Music in Your Classroom: Boosting Learning

Builds Cultural Awareness and Inclusivity

I am always looking for ways to engage students.  By engaging them, I believe they will learn. One of the best ways to expose students to cultures is through music.  For example, a diverse range of music from around the world helps them appreciate and respect different cultures. By using music from various traditions, teachers can create an inclusive classroom environment quite effortlessly. 

By listening to music from many cultures students learn to value diversity and  cultures. One group I always played was Ladysmith Black Mambazo. This musical exploration can lead to discussions about cultural backgrounds, traditions, and perspectives. By enriching students’ worldviews their appreciation for diversity grows. A film score I would have used is  The Black Panther , The Water Fall scene.

Boosts Memory and Retention

Have you ever heard a song from your high school years and you were immediately pulled back in your memory to those times? Me, too. Music has been shown to improve memory retention. Setting information to music can be a highly effective mnemonic tool.  This works especially for younger students.

My personal favorite music are the songs from Schoolhouse Rock such as I’m Just a Bill!  In fact, teachers can create simple songs for memorizing multiplication tables, vocabulary words, or historical dates. I remember our daughters learning a song about the state capitols–State Capitols Song. This “music in your classroom” approach helps students retain information long-term and makes learning more enjoyable. That’s the key here, friend.

The Benefits of Music in Your Classroom: Boosting Learning

Improves Language Skills

As you might expect, Language and music share common neural pathways.  In a 2017 study shared on Sciencedirect.com, a group of scientists found that making music is an effective way to enhance language development. By listening to songs with rich vocabulary, rhythm, and rhymes a student can improve language comprehension and vocabulary. 

Especially, this is useful for students learning a new language. Incorporating music into reading activities, for example, by using song lyrics as reading material, provides a fun way to strengthen literacy skills. Have you ever assigned your students to perform a “songologue”? Check out this article in dramatics.org.

Encourages Positive Classroom Behavior

Using music strategically can help manage classroom behavior. For instance, playing upbeat music during clean-up time. Plus, using it for  transitions can make routine tasks feel more enjoyable. Generally, I find students participate enthusiastically. You can even use music as a cue, signaling that it’s time for a specific activity.

One of my favorites things to say to students while they are working is, “When you hear ‘Shark bait, who haha”, it’s time to stop.  With time, students learn to associate certain music with certain activities.  This helps with classroom routines and behavior management. I say…whatever it takes to make it easier on your and fun for your students is the right tool for me!

The Benefits of Music in Your Classroom: Boosting Learning

Tips for Using Music in the Classroom

Lastly, here are a few suggestions of mine how to uses music in your classroom:

1. Choose Music Purposefully: First, think about the goal—whether it’s focusing, energizing, or calming students—and select music accordingly.
2. Set the Volume Appropriately: Background music should be subtle, not distracting. However, make sure it’s low enough to allow for easy conversation and focus.
3. Experiment with Genres: Don’t limit yourself to one style! From classical and jazz to world music, try various genres to see what resonates best with your students.
4. Create a Playlist:  Having a playlist ready can save time and ensure a smooth transition between activities. Plus, consider creating different playlists for different parts of the day or tasks.
5. Be Mindful of Lyrics: When possible, use instrumental music or songs with positive messages. Consequently, this will aid you maintaing a respectful and inclusive atmosphere.

As you might expect, I’m listening to music right now as I write this.  Today, I feel like listening to the film score of Dune.  I hope I’ve convinced you to experiment with music in your classroom.  Personally, to me it’s like icing on the cake!

Do you use music in your classroom?  I’d love to know about it.  Feel free to email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

Woman behind DramaMommaSpeaks

Creating One-of-a-Kind Plays: Custom Scripts Available Now

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Here’s a little story for you concerning this blog post, creating one of a kind plays: custom scripts available now.

Creating One-of-a-Kind Plays: Custom Scripts Available Now

      Recently, when I was reading Facebook groups posts, a teacher posted asking for a script for a Veterans Day program.
Since I have previously experience creating a program like this (I wrote and directed three scripts for a diversity celebration in honor of Martin Luther King in Columbia, MO.), I jumped at the chance to help her!

She mentioned she was bored with her usual Veterans Day program and wanted something new and different.
As you might expect, we emailed each other a bit with me asking the usual questions: size of cast, grade level performing, length of piece, etc.  Lastly, I asked her if there was anything special she’d like me to include? Her suggestion was to use veteran’s letters as a focus, but that she was open to other ideas. 
    Not surprisingly, I had no trouble coming up with a storyline. Plus, the idea of using letters in the play was a terrific one.  Additionally,  they were easy to find and utilize as I incorporate into the script.

Creating One-of-a-Kind Plays: Custom Scripts Available Now

    I went to work on the script and two days later, I came up with “Letters Across Time“. ($4.99) The resource includes a letter to the teacher with suggestions for mounting the production, the script and four photographs of the letter writers. 
Creating One-of-a-Kind Plays: Custom Scripts Available Now

The Custom Play Script Story

    The story: A teacher and her students invite a military veteran to speak to their class in celebration of Veterans Day. Four students read quotes from letters of various members of the armed forces. These letters writers are George Washington, Franklin Roosevelt, a Civil War soldier and a present-day female soldier.
     Additionally, the students ask the veteran questions.  He shares about his experiences in the war. The audience experiences first-hand what it is like to be in the military serving in a war time through the use of images of the four letter writers,
Creating One-of-a-Kind Plays: Custom Scripts Available Now
If you would like a customized bundle of my Dramamommaspeaks products, check out this blog post: The Reasons I Offer Customized Theatre Lesson Bundles

Do you need a custom script?


After writing this script, and posting to my Dramamommaspeaks store on TPT, I  got to thinking…maybe someone else needs a particular program written for them?  

   YOU CAN ASK THE SAME THING OF ME! (Guess what?  Requesting this customized program is at no extra cost to you!)

Do you need something to celebrate:
  • Martin Luther King
  • National Hispanic Heritage Month
  • Women’s History month
  • Native American Indian/Alaska Native Heritage Month
  • A day of historical significance in your state?
  • A day of historical significance to your community?
Or do you have another idea? Perhaps you’d like a radio theater script written about a particular topic?  Here is one your students will enjoy:  The Monkey’s Paw
File:Nikolay Ge 019.jpeg

Five Reasons for a Custom Script

    If you are like me, it may take you a little extra thought to consider how a custom script could be of benefit to you.  But here are five reasons it will help you:

1. Tailored to student abilities: A custom script can match the skill level and interests of their students.  Thus ensuring every child has a part that suits them.

2. Aligned with curriculum goals: Teachers can request scripts that reinforce specific educational objectives.  These could be historical events, literary themes, or social-emotional learning.

3. Saves time and effort: Teachers don’t have to spend hours adapting existing material to fit their classroom needs. The script is ready to go.

4. Culturally relevant content: Custom scripts can reflect the unique cultural backgrounds and diversity of the class.  This makes the material more engaging and relatable.

5. Fosters creativity and engagement: A customized play script can include topics or themes that spark student interest. Consequently, this fosters  deeper engagement and encouraging participation in the arts.

Sounds like a win-win to me.  You, too?

Looking for unique, engaging drama lessons?  Check out this new bundle: Middle School Curriculum Volume 3

Just email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com
Have you ever been asked to present something for a special celebration at your school?  I’d love to hear about it.
Dramamommaspeaks Blog Author Deborah Baldwin

 

License Training Musicals: Why You Need to Know Them Now

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License Training Musicals: Why You Need to Know Them Now

As a respectful product adopter, I try new products early but carefully. I’m thrilled to share License Training Musicals: Why You Need to Know Them Now. You are going to want to know more about them, too!

I keep up an active Instagram account through my Dramamommaspeaks page.  Primarily, teachers follow me there but from time to time other groups join–play publishers, authors and youth theater companies.  Recently, a new company joined me.  Being the dutiful marketing person that I aspire to be, I checked them out.  Simply put, once you learn about this company it is going to rock your world!

License Training Musicals: Why You Need to Know Them Now

License Training Musicals: Why You Need to Know Them Now

License Training Musicals creates specially crafted scripts and resources designed to change the way actors are trained. They provide true equity in learning with equal lines of dialogue, singing solos, and dance opportunities.  In addition, these training musicals are a truly unique and fun way to approach musical theater training for school drama teachers, community theaters, students and adults alike!

Are you understanding this yet?  Here’s a scenario for you:  You are a harried high school theater teacher.  Additionally, you are half way through the school year and it is time to study musical theater.  You all ready know that your students are wild  about musical theater–they sing songs and quote lines from musicals every single day.  Having their engagement to the subject isn’t the problem.   The problem is everyone wants to be the lead!  That’s a wonderful problem to have, but how do you accomplish this?

Of course, you can double cast the show.  That’s one of my most favorite ways to give more students stage time. You can learn more about my double casting adventures at: Double Casting a Show? Here’s Advice. What do you do about the rest?  More importantly, how do you encourage a student who may have the ability but needs to build their confidence so they feel comfortable singing louder or carrying a show?  After searching exhaustively on the web, you discover a new company,  License Training Musicals or LTM.com.  You are ecstatic!   Finally, someone that has solved this problem.

License Training Musicals: Why You Need to Know Them Now

What Makes LTM special?

First, I appreciate their mission statement: “To revolutionize the way musical theater is taught, by eliminating inequity and empowering all students to train as leads on and off the stage!”  Inequity is a big challenge theater teachers address every time they cast a show.  Plus, inequity can ruin the cast’s  chemistry.

Secondly, License Training Musicals creates one act musicals for casts of 1 to 8.  Here’s the kicker–everyone has the same amount of lines and songs. What?! Yes, you read that correctly.

Thirdly, the music is just great!  It isn’t preachy or juvenile as I find so many other places.

Their show kits contain: 

  • Triple Threat Training Script .PDF
  • Lead Sheet Music .PDF
  • Demo Vocal Track .Wav
  • Piano Melody With Click Track For Rehearsal .Wav
  • Piano Melody With Instrumental For Rehearsal .Wav
  • Instrumental Performance Track .Wav

Fourth, and this is almost too good to be true–they really want to HELP your students.

  • Flexible for any cast type
  • Affordable for any budget
  • Includes ALL resources for rehearsals AND performances
  • Royalty Free FOREVER

If you’d like to learn more about License Training Musicals, watch this youtube video

License Training Musicals: Why You Need to Know Them Now

Let’s Meet the Owners

Pamela Atkinson is the executive director and founder of the company. Among other things, Pam has a Masters in Educ. , Bachelors in Education and a B.S in Business. In addition,  she is certified to teach theater.   Pam has been on stage as a dancer, actress in print and television, and professional singer in Hawaii, California, Washington State, New York, and in Utah. Along with that, ask her to show you, “Body Language” music video (sort of a joke).

Pamela’s Creativity

She directed choirs, and orchestras, owned a big city dance studio, as well as produced shows and musicals.  Pam created a public school dance program called A Step Ahead,  and directed collegiate and community dance companies. Also, she  danced/choreographed for the  NBA Sacramento Kings Fastbreak Dance team.  Currently, she is the tech theater teacher in the Nebo School district.

Through her 45 + years in the industry, License Training Musicals is the culmination of her effort to fulfill that mission. You can learn more about her here: LicenseTrainingMusicals

Katie D Higley

Katie Higley is the artistic director, music composer and curriculum creator of the company.  At six months old Katie’s mom discovered her humming Silent Night. By age three, she belted out gibberish at the top of her lungs while holding aloft a Readers Digest magazine on the pot!

Since then, she has blossomed into an accomplished “triple threat” performer having been in 22 musicals before graduating high school. Interestingly, she’s a multi-instrumentalist who made it to Hollywood Week as an American Idol contestant not once, but twice!

Katie’s Accomplishments

Katie loves teaching the gifts of music to hundreds of students for the last 16 years as a professional artist development coach. She’s a motivational TEDx speaker, custom songwriter, author of the well loved “Uke Hymnbook”, a screen composer at Primer Chord Production Music in Australia and a self published producer with her music placed worldwide!

As you might expect, Katie has a Bachelor’s Degree in Commercial Music from BYU, she’s certified in Music Technology from RCC with an Honorary Chaplain of Spiritual Music Credential from the WSHO. She serves as the Head Chair of Spanish Fork’s Got Talent Show at Spanish Fork City’s Fiesta Days.

License Training Musicals: Why You Need to Know Them Now

Jessica NS Blackhurst

Jessica NS Blackhurst’s self-proclaimed super power is her ability to find and create stories that remind our souls who we really are and the truth of what this life is all about.

As a youth Jessica coped with loss, financial hardship, and constantly moving for her father’s work by making the theater her home and diving deep into the sacred and uplifting power of storytelling. These passions set her on a course of leadership through storytelling.

Jessica’s Education

Jessica pursued education in every medium through which it is possible to enlighten and uplift with story. For example, she studied English literature, written novels.  She trained in stage acting and public speaking, competed in playwriting competitions.  Plus, Jessica studied the art of screenwriting and directing (receiving a bachelor’s in media arts from BYU).  Jessica has an experienced and proficient hand in songwriting with an emphasis on lyricism.  On a daily basis, she applies herself to mastering the particular crafts of a musical theater librettist and lyricist.

Jessica met Katie Higley at BYU in 2010.  They have a long history of writing amazing songs and inspiring musicals together many of which they now bring to you here!

Join their Beta Program Now

Are you excited about the possibilities here?  Here is where it gets really exciting–LTM is looking for partners who will take time to simply fill out a survey about the shows they finished. They would love feedback on the shows you think may need improvement. Hearing about your experiences helps us create the best possible musical theater resources for your classroom.

Furthermore, they  also hope you’ll let us know if there is anything else we can include to make these tools more useful for you and your students!

For more information about the Beta program go to: LTM Beta Program

As an early adopter, I can say without a doubt–you NEED to check out this company now.  You won’t regret it. Just think how much better your year will go knowing there is a company creating musical theater resources to better things for your students and you.

Are you all ready familiar with LTM?  I’d love to hear your thoughts about them.  Feel free to email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

Looking for a unique tool to boost student engagement?  Check out my new book, now available as a PDF: We’re Live! Radio Theater #101

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