New Teacher

Support Theater Teachers with Amazon Wishlists

July 25, 2025 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

Support Theater Teachers with Amazon Wishlists

Every year, dedicated theater teachers pour their own time and energy into their classrooms and production. The truth is, many of these teachers use their own money to build creative, engaging programs for their students. From props and costumes to lighting gels and scripts, the needs of a drama classroom can quickly add up. That’s why this year, I am encouraging everyone to Support Theater Teachers with Amazon Wishlists—a simple yet impactful way to give back to educators who bring the magic of the stage to life.

If you’ve ever clapped for a school play or watched a student light up on stage, you already know how powerful theater can be. But here’s what most people don’t see—teachers digging into their own wallets to buy costumes, props, scripts, makeup, and even batteries for mics. Yes, I have too!

Support Theater Teachers with Amazon Wishlists: A Little Help Goes a Long Way

When I put out a call to theater teachers with wishlists (wanting about twelve) I could include in this post, I was inundated with them! That sent a signal to me right there. Without a doubt, there are so many moving parts in a production and in a theater class, we have many needs. If that’s not enough–most of the time these teachers are the only theater teacher in their schools. It’s lonely, believe me. In fact, most theater teachers make all their production decisions by themselves from selecting the year’s season to traveling to a state theater contest.

In one public school in which I taught, we were in desperate need of microphones and stage lights. Without them, the students couldn’t be heard past the first row of seats. Furthermore, you can forget creating mood when all your school cafetorium has are dimmer switches–ugh. Luckily, several parents stepped up to fund these needs.

The Hidden Struggles Behind the Curtain

Once we had the technical equipment which we needed, the quality of our productions grew. More students became involved in productions. Our audiences grew as well. Can I credit all of this growth to the donations? Nope, but I do know the growth and success made us feel like we counted and were seen.

Most theater programs are underfunded. Check out: Critical Steps in Producing a Play or Musical: Set Design just to see the needs of one production. Or, read: Critical Steps in Selecting a Play or Musical: Budget & Royalties But you can change that—today—with just a few clicks to Amazon wish lists.

The Underfunding of Arts in Public Schools

In 2018, the American Academy of Arts & Sciences convened a Commission on the Arts to examine the state of arts education in the United States, and to assess the need for greater support. The Commission ultimately focused on the challenges of access to arts education in public schools.

Their report, Art for Life’s Sake states, “Arts education is seeing a persistent decline in access. While 88% of Americans agree that arts education is an essential component of a well-rounded education, there has been a persistent decline in support for arts education, particularly in communities that cannot finance it on their own.”

It continues, “Americans understand the value of an education that includes the arts,” says Rutter, “but we as a nation have not established sustainable educational policies that make it possible for all students to receive the education they need.

John Lithgow, a past board member of the Kennedy Center for the Arts said,” We want every child to have access to music, paintings, writing, theater—all the arts—regardless of their socio-economic circumstances,” says Lithgow. All American children should learn how to express themselves and to understand the ways in which others express themselves.”

In my opinion, I think the public doesn’t fully realize how arts education nurtures at-risk youth. A study was conducted several years ago focusing on the impact of arts education in our schools. This NEA report, The Arts and Achievement in At-Risk Youth: Findings from Four Longitudinal Studies.

Empowering At-Risk Youth Through Arts Education

Their key finding? “Better academic outcomes — Teenagers and young adults of low socioeconomic (SES) status who have a history of in-depth arts involvement (‘high arts’) show better academic outcomes than low-SES youth with less arts involvement (‘low arts’). Students earn better grades and have higher rates of college enrollment and attainment.

Low-SES students who had arts-rich experiences in high school were ten percent more likely to complete a high school calculus course than low-SES students with low arts exposure (33 percent versus 23 percent).
High-arts, low-SES students in the eighth grade were more likely to have planned to earn a bachelor’s degree (74 percent) than were all students (71 percent) or low-arts, low-SES students (43 percent).
In contrast, high-arts, low-SES students were 15 percent more likely to enroll in a highly or moderately selective four-year college than low-arts, low-SES students (41 percent versus 26 percent).
Lastly, students with access to the arts in high school were three times more likely than students who lacked those experiences to earn a bachelor’s degree (17 percent versus five percent).”

If that isn’t enough reason to support our arts teachers’ programs, I don’t know what is. For more details from this report, go to: NEA Research Report Shows Potential Benefits of Arts Education for At-Risk Youth

How to Help

I’ve gathered a list of Amazon wishlists created by hardworking, creative, often under-resourced middle school theater teachers. Plus, each one is filled with items they need right now—things that help students rehearse, perform, and grow through the arts.

You don’t have to fund a whole stage. Just pick something—anything—from their list. Whether it’s \$5 or \$50, your gift makes a real difference.

Middle School Teacher Amazon Wishlists

Here are theater teachers who could use your support this year. I’ve listed them by state:

(Texas)– Shanon Grecco View His Amazon Wishlist

(Texas)– Brandy Chapman View Her Amazon Wishlist

(Texas) Heather Roberts View Her Amazon Wishlist

(California) Katie McLaughlin Newbanks View Her Amazon Wishlist

(Kansas)–Allison Pieschl-Wegerle View Her Amazon Wishlist

(Texas) Britney Ring Meyers View Her Amazon Wishlist

(Ohio)–Shayla Holloway View Her Amazon Wishlist

(Iowa)–Curtis Cormell View His Amazon Wishlist

(Iowa)–Alex McCarthy View His Amazon Wishlist

(Washington D.C.)Briana Reynolds View Her Amazon Wishlist

Six Reasons Why Your Donation Will Matter Greatly

They’re direct. You can see in real time just how your donation helped!
You know exactly where your money is going. Consequently, there is no feeling of “I wonder if my donation really helped?”
As I’ve pointed out, they’re needed. Many citizens don’t realize the breadth and array of materials we need.
These aren’t extras—these are the tools students need to succeed.
Every single donation is a gift that lifts a burden and lights up a classroom or stage.
These donations are always appreciated. Furthermore, teachers are thoughtful by nature and truly value the trust you place in them when you choose to help.

Not Ready to Donate? You Can Still Help

Sharing this post helps just as much! Pass it along to anyone who loves the arts, supports education, or believes every child deserves a creative outlet.

Remember: When you complete teachers’ Amazon wish lists, you’re not just donating supplies. You’re building confidence, community, and creativity that will last long after the curtain falls.

From all of us who believe in the power of theater—thank you.

Click here: https://weareliveradiotheater.com/

Deb

Support Theater Teachers with Amazon Wishlists — The Secret Garden

The Benefits of Music in Your Classroom: Boosting Learning

November 2, 2024 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

The Benefits of Music in Your Classroom: Boosting Learning

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 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

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.

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

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.

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.

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!

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

5 Easy Drama Games for Emergency Sub Plans

May 31, 2023 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

If you are reading this blog post, you are probably a. collecting materials for the next school for your theater class or b. sick as a dog and you need help fast! Either way, you have come to the right place. I only offer sound teaching lessons (some made with Google slides) or advice to teachers–no gimmicks! Today, let’s talk about 5 easy drama games for emergency sub plans.

In some ways, I don’t want to divulge this secret I have. The site I’m going to share with you is full of fabulous theater improv. games and exercises. But in the interest and support of theater teachers around the world, I would like to introduce Hoopla to you.

Who is Hoopla?

Hoopla is the United Kingdom’s first improvisation theatre, established for over twelve years.

From their website, “Hoopla is an improv comedy (also known as improvised comedy, impro and improvisation) company based in London, UK. Hoopla were founded in 2006 by Steve Roe and Edgar Fernando.

Hoopla run a selection of improv classes and courses across London and also an improv comedy club in London Bridge featuring a selection of groups from across the UK improv scene. Hoopla are the founders of the UK’s first ever improvised comedy club. Hoopla also do improv based corporate training.

Mission of Hoopla

The aim of Hoopla is to make improv fun and accessible for everyone from all backgrounds. We’re especially focused on teaching beginners improv and we love introducing people to improv for the first time in a fun, friendly and safe way.

Also, Hoopla encourages and supports a growing improv community with shows, courses, networking events, socials and more.”

Did you know I have the secret to boosting student engagement? My new book, “We’re Live! Radio Theater #101” explains my journey to implementing this unique tool in the classroom. Check it out here

History of Hoopla

From their website, “Hoopla was founded in January 2006 by Steve Roe and Edgar Fernando, two old school friends who have known each other since they were 4 years old. Hoopla was originally based in Balham SW London, near to where Steve and Edgar grew up.

Originally it was just them and some school friends from their old GCSE drama group running a free workshop once a week, to have fun after work and keep the joy of drama and play in adult life. But it rapidly grew to friends of friends and then friends of friends of friends, and with word of mouth Hoopla soon became the UK’s biggest improv company.

Not surprisingly, Hoopla now teach 1000s of improv students a year in various venues around London and run shows five nights a week featuring improv groups from across the world. Don’t know much about improvisation? Check out: What You Know About Improvisation In Theater And What You DON’T Know About Improvisation In Theater

5 Easy Drama Games for Emergency Sub Plans

In 2010 Hoopla’s shows moved to The Miller in London Bridge and with the help of the amazing staff there and a large community of improvisers the venue was converted to the UK’s first ever improv theatre.

Recently, the company is honored to have been involved in the huge rise of improv in the UK over the last decade and to be part of such a great improv community.”

The games I’ve included games would be best for middle school students and larger classes. They take little to no set up and are easy to implement. Here are several of their drama games that would work in a pinch if you needed something a substitute teacher could lead.

1. Curveball Story ⚾️⚾️

Directions:
This is played in pairs (trios work too). One person makes up a story. As they tell it, the other will call out random words that need to be incorporated into the story. Wait for the last word to be folded in before giving another.🌟

Variations
Similar to What If? where the other person says something like “what if it started raining?” “What if you jumped on a boat?” and they incorporate that into the story.

🌟Grades 3 and up would have gobs of fun with this warm-up. Use vocabulary words for the random “curve ball” or maybe characters from a book, or particular facts from a science lesson. Looking for additional warm up exercises? Check out: Drama Class Exercises for the First Two Weeks of School

If you are looking for a lessons to begin the school year, check out: First Week of School Drama Class Lessons

2. Book Club

Directions:
Two improvisers have a book each given to them from the audience and all their lines of dialogue come from those. The third person makes sense of those lines in the context of the scene. A location or relationship call-out helps at the beginning.

NOTE: I took quotes from Charlotte’s Web and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire to show you.

Example
Player A (No book): Thanks for helping me out today

Player B (Book): If I can fool a bug… I can surely fool a man. People are not as smart as bugs..

Player A (No book): Perhaps you are right. Go bugs!

Player B (Book): It is deeply satisfying to win a prize in front of a lot of people.

Players A (No book): I bet! So what will you do with the prize?

Third player enters

Player C (Book): It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends.

Player A (No book): Oh hi Kim! That’s a nice to thing to say after losing so terribly.

Player C (Book): Numbing the pain for a while will make it worse when you finally feel it.

Player A (No book): Well, that’s good know.

Player B (Book): Salutations are greetings; it’s my fancy way of saying hello.

Player A (No book): Wow, you win one game and now you think you are special!

Player B (Book): It matters not what someone is born, but what they grow to be.

Teaching Purpose
It’s fun! By the end, students learn how to accept and justify offers given. Got introvertive students? Check out: Drama Games for the Introvertive Student

5 Easy Drama Games for Emergency Sub Plans

3. Car Journey 🚗🚕🚙( I renamed it, Family Vacation)

Everyone has stories of a family vacation or journey. I think this is what makes this exercise so successful–it’s a universal theme!

Directions:
Begin by having five people on stage in a car set-up.

Tell them they are on their way somewhere they don’t normally go (a convention, concert, festival, theme park, etc.).

They must be silent for the first 30 seconds of the scene.

Lastly, inform them that they cannot stop the car or get out.

Ideally they will establish relationship before any dialogue happens.

Variation
After you’ve done a few of these, ask the same casts to return to the stage and perform their return trips. They can swap places in the car.

With elementary students, you may need to get their creative juices flowing by asking them about what people talk about while they are traveling somewhere. 😊

I would think middle and high school students would have no trouble with this exercise.

Variation
After you’ve done a few of these, ask the same casts to return to the stage and perform their return trips. They can swap places in the car. (How fun would that be?)

If you choose to try this with elementary students, you may need to get their creative juices flowing by asking them about what people talk about while they are traveling somewhere. 😊

5 Easy Drama Games for Emergency Sub Plans

4. Columns/Pillars 👉👉

Description:
For this game you need 2 volunteers from the audience. They stand/sit at the front sides of the stage, and act as pillars for the players. 2 players do a scene, and whenever they need a word they tap one of the pillars on the shoulder.

The pillars say whatever comes to them, and the players then justify why that has been said. Some words fit perfectly, others will be completely random!

Example
Gary: Thanks for helping me fix this car, Denise.

Denise: No problem Gary, I’m glad I could (PILLAR) “help”.

Gary: I really appreciate it, you know I’m so nervous about the race tomorrow.

Denise: You shouldn’t be, you’re (PILLAR) “Batman”. The others don’t stand a chance!

Gary: I know, I’m just scared that if I don’t win I’ll also lose my (PILLAR) “cook”. He only wants to work for winners.

Denise: He does make great (PILLAR) “statues” out of chocolate. I’m sure you’ll win. Hand me the (PILLAR) “oats”.

Gary: I would never think to use oats to repair a car. You’re a genius.

⭐️Additional Tips for Playing

Give the pillars a chance to practice (e.g., “this morning for breakfast I had…”)
Repeat the word after the pillar has said it
Listen, and justify what has just been said

Remember to thank your lovely volunteers!

Are you looking for more warm up exercises? Check out this category: Emergency Sub Plans

5. Oracle

Directions:

The Oracle involves four people, set behind each other. (It will look a little like the photo above.) First, one person is at the front sitting on the floor, second one behind sits on a chair, the third one behind that standing and lastly, the fourth one stands on a chair. In this way, we can see all their faces. Oracle is a brilliant low stakes word-at-a-time short form game.

To begin, the host simply takes big life questions from the audience, like ‘Is there a God?’ and ‘Why are we here?’ or ‘Will the United States win the World Cup?’ and then asks the Oracle, who answers it a word at a time (per person). When Oracle is in action everyone’s arms wave to the side. If Oracle is in silent contemplation everyone’s hands are together in a kind of ‘prayer’ pose.

It’s funny, simple and daft. And being word at a time you can guess how wise oracle sounds. Sometimes very. Sometimes just plain ridiculous!

Example–

Audience question: What is love?

Player A: Love

Player B: is

Player C: hot

Player D: chocolate

Player A: on

Player B: a

Player C: rainy

Player D: day.

In this game listening and being obvious are important, as you follow what the previous person has said. You don’t have to make complete sense or try to be funny; just say the first thing that comes to you.

Or are you looking for Drama resources made with Google slides?

5 Easy Drama Games for Emergency Sub Plans

I hope these games/exercises work out well for you. If you’d like more warm up exercises (and you can expect me to have many favorites over the 38 years of teaching and directing), check out my free collection of warm ups for middle school students. You can pick it up here. Or maybe you are wanting something a little quieter and individual? Check out these word searches.

What do you leave for your substitute to teach while you are absent? I’d love to hear about it. Feel free to email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com.

Five Winter Themed Drama Lessons You Should Try

December 21, 2022 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

The topic of five winter themed drama lessons you should try sounded like something I should blog about today. By the next time I blog, it will be 2024! Wow, time has really flown this year. If you want something with a Christmas theme, check out: Drama Units Christmas Theme Bundle

I’m not a big fan of the whole new year’s celebration thing. In my family, all we did was change the calendar to the next month. Exciting, huh?

However, I know teachers are always looking for thematic units to brighten up the winter months. This post concerns new years and winter units using drama as the tool for discovery.

A Story of Generosity

This is one of the only folk tales I’ve found to celebrate the new year. I like the story so much that I’ve created two short class plays of it!

This charming play, based on a Japanese folk tale Oji San and the Grateful Statues share the themes of New Year, multiculturalism, winter, kindness and forgiveness. Students strengthen their study of another culture, reading (fluency), speaking (diction) and listening skills (restating) while learning to work cooperatively. This is excellent and very suitable piece for a vocal music, social studies, reading, language arts or drama class.

Once upon a time, there was an older Japanese couple who make straw hats which they sell at the market every day. It is a struggle for them to make ends meet, but they greet each day with gratitude and kindness to everyone. On New Year’s eve the man goes to market and no one buys a hat. As he walks home, dejected and worried, beautiful snow begins to fall. When he passes the stone statues which sit on the wall near his house, he notices that the snow is falling on their heads and decides to give the statues the unsold hats to protect them from winter’s harshness.

Ojisan and the Grateful Statues

His wife doesn’t understand her husband’s actions, but forgives him. In the night a knock at the door awakens the couple. To their amazement, a large rice cake is sitting there, though they don’t know who left it. Off in the distance, they see the statues slowly walking back to their place on the wall. It’s such a sweet story.

Students will have an opportunity to dramatize a folk tale using many of the elements of drama, create straw hats, design snowflakes, sing an original song written in a pentatonic scale and use their imaginations to express emotion through movement.

Five Winter Themed Drama Lessons You Should Try

In all honesty, I’m all about arts integration–it’s my goal for every classroom to integrate drama into their learning to some degree. Ojisan and the Grateful Statues is a perfect choice to use as an integration. Contact your vocal music teacher and present the play together! Your students can sing and accompany the song with metallophones, xyllophones and percussion.

You can find Ojisan and the Grateful Statues here.

Chinese New Year Celebration

Maybe you want something to celebrate the Chinese new year. Although this story is not directly related, it is a super story to dramatize. I have three lessons about–one is a readers theater, one is a play and one is an entire unit.

Li Chi The Serpent Slayer is based on an old Chinese folk tale about a young girl who lives with her family in a small village. Every few years, a serpent terrorizes her village and drags off one of the young women for his dinner. Everyone is fearful. No one wants to fight the serpent, but Li Chi asks her parents if she can fight the serpent. Want to learn about some other multicultural plays? Check out: The Reasons Teaching Multiculturalism in the Classroom is Vitally Important

Li Chi the Serpent Slayer

Li Chi is a fierce young woman with a quick wit who is cunning and brave. Her parents deny her this chance and forbid her to go. Even so, Li Chi slips out at night with her dog and climbs the mountain to the serpent’s cave. This time instead of a girl dying at the feet of the serpent, Li Chi outsmarts it. Li Chi the Serpent Slayer is full of plot twists. And it’s even more special because the main character is a female! With themes of bravery, love of family, love of community and several others The Little Girl and the Winter whirlwinds is one to beat!

You can find Li Chi the Serpent Slayer here:

A Story of Courage

Here is another story, this time a Bulgarian folk tale which shares a delightfully, sweet story about a little girl who saves her village during the late months of winter. As with Ojisan, there are other version of this story as well. With roles for 25+ The Little Girl and the Winter Whirlwinds shares themes of winter, generosity and courage. Perfect choice for students studying the culture of Slavic countries and/or Europe in a social studies or a drama class. you can find it here:

The Little Girl and the Winter Whirlwinds

The story, a Bulgarian folk tale, of The Little Girl and the Winter Whirlwinds goes like this–A wicked Winter Witch decides to stop Spring from arriving on time and makes Winter the only season on Earth. She hides the Sun behind dark clouds and covers the Earth with heavy snow. One morning the people from a small mountain village awake and fing their houses buried under the snow up to the roofs.

The people decide that the best thing to do is to send someone to the highest mountain peak, where the good wizard Father Frost lived in his palace of ice and ask him for help. Surprisingly, the Little Girl volunteers to go because she has very little to hold her back. She believes her warm heart and love for everyone will melt the snow and bring spring. She never considered all the obstacles that would she would meet along her way. Full of varied characters of sizes The Little Girl and the Winter Whirlwind is a lovely story.

Again, we’ve added music to this play and teachers seems to like this aspect. Since this story ends as Spring arrives, it would be perfect for February or even March.

Since first blogging about this subject, I’ve created additional resources to celebrate winter in the classroom.

The Great Santa Suit Snafu — A Winter Readers Theater Your Students Will Love

Looking for a lively winter activity that builds reading fluency and keeps your students engaged during the busiest time of year? The Great Santa Suit Snafu is a classroom-friendly Readers Theater script that brings humor, mystery, and teamwork together in one festive package. It includes twelve speaking roles with room for extras and sound effects crew.

The Story: Only one day before Christmas Eve, the elves discover that Santa’s magical suit has shrunk! A frantic team of reindeer, elves, and Mrs. Claus tries everything—from sewing disasters to “unjingling” Jingle Bells—in an attempt to save Christmas. With witty characters, playful dialogue, and an upbeat ending, students will love performing this holiday comedy. (Even includes musical score to help you learn it!) I’ve even included the lyrics to Unjingling the Bells so you won’t have to work too hard to teach it!

Because Readers Theater requires no memorization, costumes, or special materials, it’s ideal for December lessons, substitute plans, or that energetic week before winter break. The script is written especially for upper elementary and middle school students, with clear character cues, accessible vocabulary, and plenty of comedic moments that make even hesitant readers want to participate.

Sometimes, my husband and I get crazy ideas. Rudolph the Rapping Reindeer is one of them.

The story: Rudolph discovers a unique talent for rapping, bringing a fresh beat to the North Pole just before Christmas Eve. While Santa and the other reindeer are skeptical at first, Rudolph, with the help of the beatboxing elves Twinkle and Jingle, teaches the team to groove and find their rhythm.

Even Blitzen, who struggles to rap, taps out a steady beat with his hooves to keep everyone on track. The fun reaches its peak when Mrs. Claus surprises everyone by unleashing her own wild freestyle rap.

With teamwork and holiday cheer, Rudolph and the crew take flight, spreading joy and beats across the world in the most unforgettable sleigh ride yet.

This 10–12 minute holiday play is perfect for grades 4-6, with 12 speaking roles and room for a chorus. It combines humor, teamwork, and joyous fun with a unique musical twist!

Need a good laugh?

The February Doldrums

Want something fun for early February? Get everyone out of the winter blahs with this fun musical. Best for high school students, Ground Hog Day is based on the film of the same name. Laugh your way through the learning! You can find it here.

Ground Hog Day the musical is about Phil Connors, a cynical Pittsburgh TV weatherman, who is sent to cover the annual Groundhog Day event in the isolated small town of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, when he finds himself caught in a time loop, forced to repeat the same day again and again…and again. Note: This musical because of language is more suitable for high school students.

The music is great and the story line is funny. We’ve all thought about what it would be like to go back and do something differently, haven’t we? I know I have.

The unit includes everything a busy teacher would need in order to be successful: themes of the musical, plot, synopsis, creative staff biographies, Broadway and musical trivia, student questions (with a teacher’s key) and several enrichment activities to secure the learning.

Hello Spring!

One more unit that I think your students will find fun is Buddy and the Evergreen Trees.

Buddy is a little blue bird with a hurt wing. When winter comes, his selfish and thoughtless bird friends leave him behind. Consequently, Buddy is sad, very worried and hurt by their leaving. A group of evergreen trees hear him saying good bye to his supposed friends and decide they want to help him. They befriend Buddy and invite him to live in their tree limbs until winter passes. Buddy heals over the winter delighting in living in the snowy evergreen trees, his new friends. This story teaches the themes of winter, friendship, compassion and generosity. You can find it here.

Hello Every Month!

Recently, I found this folk tale and thought it was would be a perfect readers theater unit. Why? First, there are many speaking roles! The story will remind you of Cinderella to some degree. It has a parable that could lead to a class discussion topic.

The Twelve Months reader theater unit and story concerns a young and beautiful girl (called Marushka in some variations) who is sent into the cold forest in the winter to perform impossible tasks by her evil stepmother. She must get spring violets, summer strawberries and fall apples in midwinter as presents to give her stepsister for her birthday. On her journey, she meets a group of magical people who are the personification of the twelve months of the year.

When she returns home with the strawberries, her step mother and sister don’t believe her. Finally, the step sister becomes so engaged with anger, she decides that she will go up into the snowy mountains by herself. Little did she know, her rudeness would come back to ruin her.

Five Winter Themed Drama Lessons You Should Try

As always, I hope your 2023 year begins with much promise, joy and lots of fun teaching moments. Teaching and learning should be fun, I believe. It’s my hope that if you pick up these units, I’ve helped you to do so.

Drama Readers Theater Scripts Folk Fantasy Fairy Tales Literature Toolkit

Save money! Pick up this bundle here: Drama Readers Theater Scripts

What units do you teach during the winter season? Anything thematic? I’d love to hear about it. Contact me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com with your ideas.

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

Happy New Year!

Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal in Youth Theater

October 25, 2022 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal in Youth Theater is one of those subjects you figure anyone who has acted at least once will know. Not so. This is a two part post. Next time, I’ll give you the rest of it, ok?

Lately, I’ve read several posts from newbie teachers with no idea about the steps of the rehearsal process for a play or musical. That seems odd to me, but maybe they are teachers whose focus is Language Arts, Social Studies? I know that sometimes the administration will ask to direct the school play or supervise the drama club, so that could be the reason for the unfamiliarity.

Regardless, I will take you through the process for both a play and musical. You can depend upon this process to prepare your young actors because I’m an expert in directing youth theater. Having directed over 350 plays and musicals with both adults and children, I know the process like the back of my hand.

Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal in Youth Theater

I’m assuming you have the funds to mount your production. If not here are a few ideas for you: Turn Your Theater Department Fundraising Into A High Performing Machine

Step One: Selecting the Script

Before you, the director, do anything you of course must read several scripts and decide upon the one you like the most. I suggest you check out: Dramatic Publishing Company or Dramatists Play Service. but there are many more just as good. Keep in mind the number of characters, scenes, props and costumes. All that will matter when you begin to mount the production. I could write a whole post just about how to select a play or musical, but instead check out: Critical Steps in Selecting a Play or Musical: Casting

After you’ve chosen the play, you may want to announce it to your students. When? It depends upon when you plan to announce it and when the production is to be performed. Me? I announce a month ahead of the auditions and no sooner. I don’t like for students to focus on the show too much ahead of time. Before you know it, they’ve precast the whole show, purchased their own copy of it and maybe memorized lines. Oh, no, no, no!

Step Two: Auditions

Auditions will take a few days:

Day 1 and 2 Auditions

Day 3 Call backs

Day 4 Cast Announced

You may think this is a short time, but that’s what we are going for here. Do your best not to drag out the audition process–the outcome becomes too important to the students.

Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal in Youth Theater

Advice: If you have an auditions and allow students to watch one another audition, then you may consider announcing to them something along the lines of, “From now on until the show is cast your behavior and attitude matter to me. No distractions are tolerated by me. I expect you to be quiet and attentive. No phones may be out. If someone happens to record another student’s audition and posts it publicly, the guilty party will be denied a role in the play. This is an unbending rule.”

Casting Tips

I also remind them that, “Although at the present moment it may feel like this is the only play in the world in which you could be cast, this isn’t true. This isn’t the be all, end all. Check around the city and see if anyone else is producing a show you could audition for and participate elsewhere.”

Post the cast list either on a Friday afternoon (when you can leave the school or theater for the weekend and give students time to unruffle their disappointed feathers) or post on-line on your website. Handling emails from parents on Monday is another blog post….someday.

Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal in Youth Theater

Ten Steps to the Play or Musical Rehearsal Process in Youth Theater — First rehearsal of Mulan, Jr.

Step Three: Cast and Crew Read-Through

I’m old school, so I still call this meeting the “read-through.” Some people now call it a table read (I always thought that was only used for television or movies), but no matter. At this read-through, I ask the cast and crew to introduce themselves and the role or position they are filling.

Next, it’s time to share my concept for the production. I might have a collage of photos, textures, colors or I might just talk about my thoughts. Personally, I think a collage is the best because then everyone knows what you consider the color blood red, for example.

Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal in Youth Theater

We read through the show. If I have a stage manager, they read aloud the stage directions. This is to give the cast a feel for the play not that we are going to use these directions. Not everyone knows that the stage directions that are printed in the script are honoring the first cast to have ever performed the play. It is not required that you use the directions.

The stage manager hands out a rehearsal schedule. I make it clear to the cast and the crew that their attendance matters. They all ready know the absence policy because I gave it to them at the auditions.

Step Four: Blocking Rehearsals

In the coming days, we begin blocking the play. If I am able to do so, I tape the stage giving the cast an idea of the size of the set, where stairs and doors are located, etc. Usually, I use folding chairs in place of the furniture. Everyone is aware that the chairs signify particular pieces of furniture.

Depending upon the length of the play, I usually block about 5 to 8 pages at the first rehearsal. Why not many? Because the cast is adapting to the script, plus the stage and my direction. Some young students need to write down their blocking before they even step on the stage. That’s your call.

Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal in Youth Theater

Advice: You will not find that novice actors having a sense of blocking and staging. They can not block themselves nor frankly should they. You are teaching them about acting in a play–that’s part of the responsibility of someone directing youth theater.

The Blocking Process

I use a building block process when directing. Usually, I have two hour rehearsals with one ten minute break at half.

Day 1 block pages 1 to 8

Day 2 block pages 9 to 15 (or when there is a change in the mood or rhythm of the play) If a character enters the stage for the first time, they will change the dynamics of the play–I promise you. The playwright writes the scene this way on purpose. So, block to the entrance of the character. (When a character enters or exits the stage it is called a French scene.)

Day 3 block pages 16 to 20, review blocking 1 to 8. Less new pages to block, more time to spend on reviewing the first day’s blocking.

Day 4 block pages 21 to 26, review blocking 9 to 15 and so forth

Day 5 block pages 27 to 30, review Day 3 and Day 4 blocking.

Blocking Rehearsal

This part of rehearsal would continue until the play is completely blocked–a few new pages, several pages of review, until I am finished.

If you have a difficult scene (such as the dinner scene in The Miracle Worker between Helen and Annie), I take an entire rehearsal to block it.

Do I expect everyone to attend each rehearsal? No, I’d rather they did not. It’s just more students for me to be responsible for, more chances for talking and whatever else might bug me that day. 🙂

Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal Process in Youth Theater

If you are interested in your students producing a play themselves, check out: How to Teach Play Production to Your Students

Step Five: Working and Developing Rehearsals and Off Book

Let’s say I have everything blocked by Day 10. Next we go into working and developing rehearsals. Working rehearsal are just that–we work through the play a few pages at the time (probably using two days of blocking at a time) and fix any problem areas or give the students more opportunities to practice together. Developing is just a fancy name for giving the play “air” as I call it. I give the cast a chance to settle into the play, adding their ideas here and there.

Advice: I expect students to practice on their own time–reviewing their blocking and memorizing their lines. I do not use rehearsals for line memorization. Those days can be excruciating for all of us as we listen to someone struggling with their lines. Frankly, it makes everyone listening anxious. Even though we trust the actor will have his lines down pat by opening night, it is still a bit nerve wracking. Wondered about tips to getting off book? Check out this fascinating video: How to Memorize Lines

Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal in Youth Theater

Students should be off book for act one by Day 10 and act two by Day 15. Here is a blog post with three proven methods for memorizing lines: Three Ways to Memorize Lines for a Play or Musical I’m strict about this. What is off book? It is the day when the actors rehearse without a script in their hands. They can call for lines, but if it’s obvious they have not memorized their lines, I make them practice with their script as to not bring the mood of the rehearsal down.

Want your students to design their own costume? Theater Arts Unit Costume Design High School Level

After we have worked through the entire play, we have polishing rehearsals. I’ll talk about those in the next post. Your students would appreciate this: Watch Splashy Rehearsal

Or maybe you just want to teach all things technical? Here’s a bundle you may want to pick up for this purpose.

So there you have it–Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal in Youth Theater. How do you run your rehearsals? It’s always nice to hear from you. You can contact me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com or reply here. Here are more directing tips: Eighteen Ways To Make Your Directing Experience Less Stressful, Part One

Are you needing a FREE lesson? Pick up this one: Lin Manuel Miranda Famous Theater Biography

Drama Class Exercises for the First Two Weeks of School

July 6, 2022 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

Drama Exercises for the First Two Weeks of School

I receive quite a few emails asking, “I have a question about drama exercises for the first two weeks of school. What would you suggest?” That’s a really important question. After thirty-eight years of teaching various theater classes, I have a pretty good handle on what works for me.

However, I’ve been where you are–staring at a blank calendar anxiously wondering what is most important and where you should begin with your class. I think it’s only natural that you feel this way. Simply put–get to know your students.

Everything, and I mean, everything will go much better if you get to know your students! I don’t advise jumping on a bunch of rules unless your list is short like mine (Three R’s–respect, responsibility and ready to learn.) Just about every situation can be addressed using the three expectations. But that’s me.

Pick up this ready-to-go 5 Day of Middle School Drama Lessons.

If you need a scope and sequence for middle school students, here is one: Drama Curriculum Scope and Sequence

GROUP HUG AFTER WILLY WONKA (I’M THE BLONDE HEAD IN THE MIDDLE)

Building Teacher/Student Relationships

When I was looking around for information concerning building teacher/student relationships, I stumbled upon this quote from the EducationNorthwest.org:

“When teachers make an intentional effort to get to know each of their students, it can foster in students a sense of belonging and connection to school—which can then build a foundation for academic success. Positive teacher-student relationships lead to increased cooperation and engagement in the classroom.”

Here’s another quip I appreciate from Reach.com: “Understanding your students’ interests will help you to provide them with quality learning opportunities. By giving them the opportunity to explore areas they are interested in – for example, the environment – they will be more likely to engage with the learning process.”

I believe that getting to know your students and vice versa, is imperative to everyone’s success!

Here’s a recent Instagram interview where I speak about particular games. https://www.instagram.com/tv/ChsDNC8MMgh/?igshid=Y2ZmNzg0YzQ=

Elementary School Creative Dramatics Class Warm-Ups

Elementary students are so sweet and enjoy just about everything you share with them. One old standby of mine is Wax Museum. Most people know this game, but if not check it out here: Wax Museum

When I Go to California is a terrific game for a smaller to medium size class. The more outlandish the objects the students “take” on their imaginary trip, the better. It goes like this:

Two of the most important skills an actor needs is the ability to concentrate and memorize. This exercise will do just that!⁣
You need an open area to play this. This game takes no materials and that’s always a nice thing, huh? ⁣
⁣
First, students sit in a circle on the floor. ⁣Person A stands and says, “WHEN I GO TO CALFORNIA, I WILL TAKE MY ____” and pantomimes something unusual he would take on a trip. (i.e. an elephant) Person A should make the sound of the object if it makes one. ⁣Person A sits again. ⁣

Person B stands and says, “When I go to California, I will take my (Person As object) and my________” and pantomimes another unusual object. ⁣
⁣
The game continues until everyone has a chance to participate. ⁣An object can not be copied by another person as their choice for their object. You also may need to help students when they forget objects. (I encourage students to help as well.)

If you are looking for a week’s worth of drama lessons to begin your school year, check out: First Week of School Drama Class

Or check out this one-which is a good one to use the first week of classes in elementary and middle school: Drama Circle
⁣

Middle School Drama Class Warm-Ups

I will admit that I enjoy teaching middle school students the most. Here’s a recent Facebook Live where I speak about teaching theater to students: Facebook Live with Deb the Storyteller

Middle School students can be shy or extrovertive. Every class is different, so adjust your expectations according to what you observe right off the bat. When your students enter your classroom, do they appear to be familiar with anyone (make a B line to sit with them), sit at the back or maybe the front of the room?

Nevertheless, middle school students love games of any sort. Usually, I get them up on their feet and run through the Alliteration Name Game (you may know it by a different name). You can read about this game here: Drama Games for the Introvertive Student

This exercise will take atleast 20 minutes. It’s important to take your time and if you find there is a student who can’t come up with an idea for their name, others may help him. Also, I require that students applaud after each person shares their name. Why? Because it establishes that everyone is equal and we appreciate everyone’s talent in the class.

Drama Exercises for the First Week of School

This exercise that will take several days to finish– 3 Things About Me. It goes like this:

You, the teacher, bring in 3 things which are important to you–maybe a family photo, your first doll, a medal for something you entered and won–that sort of thing. Take about 5 minutes to explain the items. Hand out sign up sheet for several days. Students sign up for a particular day. When I assign this, I encourage the students to have at least one really unusual thing to share with the class. That makes it far more interesting. I give participation points–a blanket 10 points.

I’d advise warming up the class each day. This tag is a really good one for day two or three. You can pick up here for free: Firecracker Tag.

Another warm up which is good is the Three Word Improvisation. I would use this on about day five with older middle school students. Go here to pick up this game: Three Word Improvisation

If you’d like some more warm ups, go to my Instagram guide.

High School Students Theater Class Warm-Ups

High School students are great to teach, too. I’ve had some amazing high school theater classes. Hopefully, students enrolled in your high school theater class are there because they signed up for the class which is not always the case with middle school students. If the students elected to take your class, then I’d start right in with your lessons.

If your students are new to theater (such as a Theater 101 course) a really great warm up for them (and quite difficult) is Name Volleyball. You can pick it up here: NAME VOLLEYBALL PDF

Or another is Curveball Story

Description: (many thanks to Hoopla.com for this one) This is played in pairs (trios work too). One person makes up a story. As they tell it, the other will call out random words that need to be incorporated into the story. Wait for the last word to be folded in before giving another. (Honestly, I think even elementary students can play this game, but I thought it would be really funny with older students.)

Variations
Similar to What If? where the other person says something like “what if it started raining?” “What if you jumped on a boat?” and they incorporate that into the story.

Want a game that can last the entire class period? This is the one! For years, I have used this game which was titled, Hang Man Charades. However, that is an offensive name so I call it Dancing Man Charades. Pick it up here: DANCING MAN CHARADES PDF

My Recommendation for Theater Teachers

Recently, in a teachers Facebook group a drama teacher asked, “Do I really have to do warm ups every class period?”

No, you don’t especially if you think you have their attention. However, warm ups usually help everyone–there are lots of laughs (which for some students is the only time they laugh their entire day), acknowledge a person’s skill that no one was aware that they had (like the shy kid who can tell a heck of a story.) They even help you!

I could be shooting myself in the foot here, but for warm ups for elementary and middle school students I recommend Theater Games for the Classroom by Viola Spolin. One of the assets of this book which I like is the use of side coaching. Because of this book, I learned to side coach my students which is inordinately vital with elementary and middle schoolers. For high school, pick up her Improvisation for the Theater. Equally as useful and powerful. Grab a free collection of warm ups for middle school here.

What games and exercises do you like to use at the beginning of the school year? I’d love it if you would share them with me? Contact me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

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Who is Hoopla?

Hoopla is the United Kingdom’s first improvisation theatre, established for over twelve years.

Mission of Hoopla

History of Hoopla

5 Easy Drama Games for Emergency Sub Plans

5 Easy Drama Games for Emergency Sub Plans

5 Easy Drama Games for Emergency Sub Plans

5 Easy Drama Games for Emergency Sub Plans

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A Story of Generosity

Ojisan and the Grateful Statues

Five Winter Themed Drama Lessons You Should Try

Chinese New Year Celebration

Li Chi the Serpent Slayer

A Story of Courage

The Little Girl and the Winter Whirlwinds

The Great Santa Suit Snafu — A Winter Readers Theater Your Students Will Love

Need a good laugh?

The February Doldrums

Hello Spring!

Hello Every Month!

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Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal in Youth Theater

Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal in Youth Theater

Casting Tips

Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal in Youth Theater

Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal in Youth Theater

Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal in Youth Theater

The Blocking Process

Blocking Rehearsal

Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal Process in Youth Theater

Ten Steps in a Play Rehearsal in Youth Theater

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Drama Exercises for the First Two Weeks of School

Building Teacher/Student Relationships

Elementary School Creative Dramatics Class Warm-Ups

Middle School Drama Class Warm-Ups

Drama Exercises for the First Week of School

High School Students Theater Class Warm-Ups

My Recommendation for Theater Teachers

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