youth theatre

How BookTix Turns Theatre Teachers into Confident Producers

October 18, 2024 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

Every so often, I’m fortunate in having a company contact me and ask if I would be willing to recommend them to you. Today, I’m excited to blog about how BookTix turns theatre teachers into confident producers. I’ve directed, taught and produced for over thirty-eight years. As you might expect, I have many memories of box office fiascos. About twenty years ago, I administrated a summer theater camp in Missouri. They were a small company with a large theater venue. Like many of us at the time they were selling their tickets only at the door prior to performance time.

Their biggest problem wasn’t filling the seats. They had no lobby for the audience to wait prior to curtain or stand in a queue to pick up their tickets. Invariably, the ticket line snaked out the door and around the building. What a hassle!

How BookTix Turns Theatre Teachers into Confident Producers

Not only that, but with no box office purchasing system, selling in this manner makes for a late curtain. Consequently, audience members become anxious when they have to wait before a production begins. It can even discourage their applause. I’ve even heard an audience member say, “Why did we have to wait so long for the show to begin? This better be good!”

Additionally, when people see a line at the door, they often assume the event is sold out. I’ve personally seen attendees leave the theater, believing there were no tickets available, simply because we lacked a system to sell tickets in advance. Yikes!

How BookTix Turns Theatre Teachers into Confident Producers

BookTix is one of the first companies in the country (and the world) to address this issue.

Who is BookTix? From their owner, “BookTix helps theatre teachers see themselves as producers – they handle so many roles – fundraising, marketing, ticket sales, etc. We help solve those pieces that become headaches so they can focus on the fun stuff – making art. It’s all about making the lives of teachers easier. We attend many conferences to meet the educators and brainstorm solutions. We pride ourselves helping teachers find loyal audiences and fundraise options so they can have financial and artistic freedom to the work they want to do.”

All ready they sound great, huh?

With BookTix, you will receive access to your own customized selling platform. Your patrons (customers) will be able to click from your website directly to your BookTix portal. This portal is customized to match the branding of your website for a seamless experience for the end user. Your staff will have access to your administrative portal, where they can customize events, items, season passes, donation campaigns and so much more!

Seamless Support and Innovation: How BookTix Elevates Your Production Process

They also provide a platform for you to use and they provide a highly trained customer support team with tons of experience in the event industry. This team can assist you and your staff in setting up & running your portal. If you want to set it up yourself, they include a base of articles or a teacher can sign up for a Webinar to learn how to use the BookTix platform.

BookTix Provides: A state-of-the-art platform that is always updating based on customer feedback and current industry trends; a fully staffed customer support center available by online chat, email, submit a ticket or phone call. We are here for you every step of the way!

What am I expected to provide? As you might expect, you provide the computers, tablets, mobile devices for using the system – as an administrator, box office rep or usher. (We offer support on compatible equipment that is available to purchase.) You provide all staffing and internet for running the system on your end.

BookTix: Simplifying Ticketing with Innovation and Industry Expertise

BookTix is a turnkey system created for the performing arts, and quickly expanded to include all types of events, by individuals that have worked in the industry in various capacities. After building a system for a limited run of an Off-Broadway show, co-owners Jason Goldstein & Tim DiVito knew it was too good to keep to themselves. As producers, they know how complicated ticketing can be. The staff at BookTix is also passionate about the arts and brings many levels of understanding to the development and support offered by the company.

The primary goal of BookTix is to make ticketing easy and affordable. First, BookTix offers a positive patron and brand experience. They are always embracing new technologies to enhance our features. This allows for a diverse array of analytic capabilities and reporting functions. Anticipating the future of ticketing, recently they completely redesigned their system using 15 years of feedback. It is their forward thinking and new tech to deliver an unparalleled system that sets them apart from others.

New 2024 Rollout: Affordable, Feature-Rich System Favored Nationwide

This system began rolling out in early 2024. From the feedback that they gathered, the low cost & improved features make this system preferred to other systems on the market. Booktix works with many towns, cities, counties, school districts, performing arts centers. Additionally, they help athletic associations and other organizations that offer a myriad of events throughout the United States and Canada.

Their system utilizes a digital ticket which patrons can scan at the door when attending events. There is also an option for patrons to print at home, or for the box office to print physical tickets and hold at Will Call. BookTix offers easy to understand reporting and real-time updating of tickets purchased both online and at the box office. Plus, they offer general admission ticketing, reserved seating and even a combination of both!

I think this next asset is incredigle! Their team will create a customized seating chart based on your venue and patrons can select their seats with ease, automatically blocking those seats out for others purchasing concurrently. We offer the ability to include sponsors on your tickets and on your ticketing site. Most features are fully customizable based on your organization’s needs.

Comprehensive Support: Expert Guidance from Setup to Sales with BookTix

BookTix not only checks every box for the technical needs in ticketing, but also brings a team of passionate employees who are ready to assist with any issues that may arise. Additionally, their sales & onboarding teams are available for personalized and group demos to help walk your team through the system. They are happy to answer any questions as you begin your ticketing journey with BookTix, too. Do you need some assistance with logos, color selections, etc? Booktix will help you get set up & make sure your branding is en pointe and will double check that your initial events are all entered correctly and are ready for sales.

Another plus is that their company is their customer support team. It is available 7 days a week and is actively online any time we have an event running in our system. We also have an emergency support line for urgent matters 24/7. Not only is someone available, but they are eager to help you understand the system and sell more tickets! New to teaching and directing on your own? This post is a must-read for you! Play Production for Newbie Theater Teachers: Expectations Versus Reality

Transparent, Flexible Pricing: BookTix Ensures Smooth, Fee-Free Ticketing

And that brings me to my next point about BookTix. They only make money when you sell tickets, so our goal is to ensure your ticketing process is always smooth. There are zero up front charges (unless you are purchasing equipment) and zero monthly or annual fees. We charge 3.75% plus 90¢ USD ($1.20CAD) per ticket. Cash & comp tickets are always FREE! This fee includes credit card fees processed by our partner, Stripe.

Most importantly, you never have to worry about any other fees. When you set up your tickets in the system, you will be able to see what their fees are and adjust your patron fees accordingly. This ensures you receive exactly what you need per ticket. BookTix is 100% cloud based and each organization is provided with their own customizable URL. Patrons use this URL to find information about the organization and all of the events for which they are selling tickets.

Flexible Ticketing and Packages: Simplifying Sales for Any Event or Venue

Do you require package deals for a production such as group rates? Not a problem. The site allows for the unlimited sale of tickets, packages, items and donations for multiple departments. If that isn’t enough for you, they can provide tickets for multiple events at multiple venues all simultaneously. Events can be scheduled for a single date/time or for a range of dates/times.

Introducing the Worry-Free Queue: Stress-Free Ticket Sales Management

One of their newest features is our Worry Free Queue! This new upgrade puts your buyers in a dynamic line to reduce stress on the system and give customers more effective seat selection. You will never have to worry about overloading the system when tickets go on sale!

Additionally, they’ve recently rolled out a new Fundraising Suite. Talk about stress free! You can stay on top of donations, track your goals and thank donors easily with their new array of features designed to make fundraising easier for your organization.

BookTix: A Trusted Leader in Ticketing for Schools and Theaters Across North America

BookTix operates remotely, primarily out of New Jersey, USA. They are pleased to be the de facto ticketing system for school and performing arts organizations across the US and Canada. I can tell they take a lot of pride in being the top choice for many schools and theaters. As you might expect, they have an international footprint and are endorsed and partnered with many industry organizations.

In 2024, BookTix was honored with the Organization of the Year award from the Virginia Thespians for our expertise in online ticketing for their annual event. Moreover, they continue to be a proud member and supporter of the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) as well as the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA). Lastly, they receive the American Association of Community Theater Corporate Award presented to businesses and corporations for significant financial support of community theatre on a regional or national basis.

In conclusion, because of my extensive personal experiences as producer, director and teacher I can recommend BookTix to you with my utmost support. In today’s world, it’s rare to find a company as excellent, helpful and trustworthy as BookTix.

Do you use a platform to handle your box office needs? Looking for something better? I’d love to hear about it. Email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

Why Theater Education Matters: Developing Key Life Skills

August 8, 2024 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

Why Theater Education Matters: Developing Key Life Skills

Today, I want to blog about why theater education matters: developing key life skills. Recently, I read a Facebook post by a theater teacher who was frantic for help. She taught drama in middle school. Her sixth grade classes were a reasonable size, but that’s where the good news end.

More Typical Scenario Than You Would Think

Her seventh and eighth grade classes had been mixed up, so she no longer had an intermediate (7th) and experienced class (8th). Get this-when she inquired for the reasons for this cluster, her questions weren’t addressed. Unfortunately, she was informed that she would have to do the best she could. She should sharpen up her classroom management skills. And if that’s not enough–her classes were 50 to 60 students in number. What?!?

As I consider this enormous problem for her, I’m struck with a thought. This is one time that it is more important to teach key life skills to her gigantic and potentially unsafe classes than to actually study theater. My suggestion? Focus on life skills through her lessons and though they will still pertaining to theater, the students will feel less threatened.

Why Theater Education Matters: Developing Key Life Skills

Theater education is often seen as an extracurricular activity. Some people consider it a hobby for those interested in acting or the arts. However, the benefits of theater education extend far beyond the stage. Engaging in theater can play a crucial role in developing essential life skills. These are skills which are tantamount to success in one’s personal and professional life. Here’s a closer look at why theater education should be an integral part of every student’s learning experience.

1. Enhancing Communication Skills

One of the most apparent benefits of theater education is the improvement of communication skills. Through acting, students learn to express themselves clearly and confidently. They practice articulation, projection, and the importance of non-verbal cues. These skills are not only vital for performing on stage but are also crucial in everyday interactions and professional environments.

By memorizing lines from plays or musicals, student absorb a variety of sentences and phrasing. If they are like me, it carries over into your every day speech. Furthermore, you naturally know how to use a particular phrase or word without even having to think about it. You communicate with ease and confidence. My suggestion: teach students how to memorize a short paragraph from a play.

2. Fostering Teamwork and Collaboration

Theater is inherently a collaborative art form. From rehearsals to performances, students must work closely with their peers, directors, and crew members. This collaboration teaches them how to work effectively in a team. A cast must listen to others’ ideas, and contribute constructively.

I can always tell if students have been directed by a knowledgeable teacher who understands the value of everyone’s talents and abilities. The entire cast and crew carries about them a sense of ownership. They help one another and are willing to sacrifice their ego for the sake of the production. These teamwork skills are highly sought after in almost every career field. My suggestion: Teach set design, having students work with a buddy.

3. Developing Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

By stepping into different characters’ shoes, students gain a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives and emotions. This experience fosters empathy. It allows them to relate better to others’ feelings and experiences. Additionally, theater education helps students develop emotional intelligence by encouraging them to recognize and manage their own emotions, as well as understand and influence the emotions of others.

As we are aware, our students are suffering from bullying not only in the classroom and hallways, but on-line as well. Students who have portrayed villains or down-trodden characters know what that feels like. I do not have any proof to expound here. However, my personal experiences with this issue lead me to believe that your arts students are the least likely students to intimidate anyone. Check out this post-–Drama Student, I Recognize You a Mile Away

Arts students are usually immensely clever and generally have differing viewpoints from the study body as a whole. Consequently, often time they suffer being left out of social circles. Theater gives them a “home” at school. My suggestion? Write a monologue speaking as the animal. (You won’t believe how well this works for students.)

Looking for a bundle of units concerning acting styles? Check out this one: Acting Styles of Stanislawski, Adler, Strasberg and Hagen.

4. Building Confidence and Self-Esteem

Performing in front of an audience can be a daunting task, but it is also an excellent confidence booster. Theater education provides a safe and supportive environment for students to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them. Over time, this process builds self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment. Accordingly, confident individuals are more likely to take on leadership roles and tackle challenges head-on.

As adults, we continue to grapple with taking risks in our lives. Some people are so afraid of risk, they become stagnant and don’t grow. I’ve witnessed this in my extended family and it saddens my heart. Their spouse, on the other hand, who studied theater and dealt with self esteem issues as a young person continues to challenge herself in her profession.

I know, without a doubt, it is because she learned from being on stage and facing risks, that she knows how to advocate for herself. My suggestion? Give them a pre-performance and post performance exit slip and ask them to be candid about themselves.

5. Encouraging Creativity and Problem-Solving

Theater is a creative endeavor that requires thinking outside the box. For example, whether it’s coming up with an innovative set design or interpreting a script in a unique way, students are constantly challenged to be creative. This creative thinking extends to problem-solving skills, as students must navigate unexpected issues that arise during rehearsals and performances. Check out this blog post if you need reasons to include drama integration in your core classes: How to Excite Students With Drama Integration

Through trial and error, students build their problem-solving skills and learn that making mistakes doesn’t mean failure. Mistakes signify that the particular issue wasn’t solved or completed. That is all, period. My suggestion? Teach with my Famous Theater Artists Growth Mindset Unit.

6. Strengthening Academic Performance

Research has shown that students involved in theater tend to perform better academically. Theater education enhances literacy and reading comprehension through script analysis and character study. Also, it improves memory and concentration, which are beneficial across all subjects. Moreover, the discipline and time management skills learned in theater can translate to better study habits and academic success.

In the beginning, novices will try to beat the system and paraphrase their lines. Hence, they never truly learn them. By the time they are in high school, they’ve convinced themselves that, “I can’t learn lines.” I know this is not true. Plus, I know what they need is a system that works.

Once I demonstrate to them the various methods for line memorization, they try again. When they have success using one of those methods, their entire attitude changes. But it still takes self discipline! If you want more information for line memorization, read Three Ways to Memorize Lines for a Play or Musical

7. Preparing for Future Careers

While not all students will pursue careers in theater, the skills gained from theater education are transferable to numerous professions. Additionally, theater education equips students with a versatile skill set that can enhance their career prospects and success.

Here are a few careers where having theater skills are useful:

Public Relations Specialist–Skills Used: Communication, presentation, creativity, adaptability.
How Theater Helps: Understanding audience engagement and crafting compelling narratives.

Event Planner–Skills Used: Organization, time management, creativity, problem-solving.
How Theater Helps: Managing events and performances teaches you how to coordinate logistics and handle unexpected issues.

Marketing Professional–Skills Used: Creativity, communication, storytelling, audience analysis.
How Theater Helps: Developing marketing campaigns requires the same creative storytelling skills used in theater.

Educator/Teacher–Skills Used: Communication, presentation, adaptability, creativity.
How Theater Helps: Theater teaches how to engage and hold the attention of an audience, which is essential in the classroom.

Future Careers Utilizing Theater Skills

Human Resources Manager–Skills Used: Communication, conflict resolution, empathy, teamwork.
How Theater Helps: Theater experiences foster a deep understanding of human behavior and group dynamics.

Sales Professional–Skills Used: Persuasion, communication, presentation, relationship building.
How Theater Helps: Performing helps build confidence and the ability to convey messages effectively.

Lawyer–Skills Used: Argumentation, public speaking, critical thinking, research.
How Theater Helps: Theater provides practice in presenting arguments persuasively and thinking on one’s feet.

Psychologist/Counselor– Skills Used: Empathy, communication, analysis, problem-solving.
How Theater Helps: Understanding characters and motivations in theater aids in understanding and helping real people.

Other Career Examples

Journalist–Skills Used: Research, storytelling, communication, adaptability.
How Theater Helps: Writing and interpreting scripts in theater helps journalists craft compelling stories.

Film and Television Production–Skills Used: Creativity, technical skills, teamwork, problem-solving.
How Theater Helps: The technical and creative aspects of theater production are directly applicable to film and television.

Corporate Trainer–Skills Used: Communication, presentation, adaptability, teaching.
How Theater Helps: Theater training provides techniques for engaging an audience and conveying information effectively.

Nonprofit Manager–Skills Used: Communication, organization, fundraising, storytelling.
How Theater Helps: Effective storytelling and presentation skills are crucial for fundraising and advocacy work.

Entrepreneur–Skills Used: Creativity, risk-taking, problem-solving, adaptability.
How Theater Helps: The improvisational nature of theater helps entrepreneurs navigate the uncertainties of starting and running a business.

See? The list for skills learned in a theater class is immense. If you are a theater teacher and must defend the reasons for keeping your class, quote from this list!

Empowering Students with Creativity, Confidence, and Collaboration

Theater education is much more than learning to act; it’s a comprehensive learning experience that develops critical life skills. By incorporating theater into the curriculum, educators can provide students with invaluable tools. Most importantly, these tools that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Whether a student dreams of a career on Broadway or in a corporate office, the lessons learned in theater education will help them shine in any role they choose to play. Looking for a teacher guidebook to teach you how to boost student engagement? Pick up We’re Live! Radio Theater #101 on Amazon.com

Plus, I’m a featured author in OneClassroomOver magazine this month. Check it out here.

Have you ever defended the need for your class or department? I’d love to learn about it. Contact me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

Jimmy Awards: Honoring High School Musical Theatre Talent

June 26, 2024 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

Jimmy Awards: Honoring High School Musical Theatre Talent

When I was a high school student I discovered my love for musical theater. Several years later and a whole lot of training, I gained the confidence to audition for the musicals. While in college, I worked my way to portraying lead roles in college. However, there was no such thing as the Jimmy Awards. I would have jumped at the chance to audition for this amazing award! Today, my blog post is, Jimmy Awards: Celebrating High School Musical Theatre Talent.

If you’re a fan of musical theatre, you might already know about the Tony Awards. However, like me you may have never heard of the Jimmy Awards. It is officially known as the National High School Musical Theatre Awards (NHSMTA). The Jimmy Awards shine a spotlight on the best and brightest high school musical theatre talent in the United States.

Named in honor of Broadway impresario James M. Nederlander, this annual event is a testament to the dedication, passion, and talent of young performers across the country. Check out this blog post if you are interested in the history of musical theater: Showtime Chronicles: History of Musical Theater Unveiled.

Honoring High School Musical Theatre Talent

Although I’d heard of Mr. Nederlander, I didn’t actually know why he was important., often referred to as Jimmy Nederlander, was a prominent American theatre owner and producer. Born on March 31, 1922, and passing away on July 25, 2016, Nederlander was a key figure in the Broadway community. Serving as the head of the Nederlander Organization, he was one of the most influential theatre operators and producers in the world. He is credited with overseeing a vast network of theatres, including nine Broadway venues. Wow!

Under his leadership, the Nederlander Organization produced numerous successful Broadway shows, including hits like Rent, Wicked, and The Lion King. His contributions to the theatre industry were immense, and he played a significant role in shaping modern Broadway.

The History of the Jimmy Awards

The Jimmy Awards were established in 2009 to recognize and celebrate outstanding achievement in high school musical theatre. Students from regional theatre awards programs participate in a week-long intensive in New York City, where they receive training from industry professionals and compete for scholarships and awards. The experience culminates in a dazzling showcase at a Broadway theatre, where the top performers are selected as finalists and given the chance to perform solos and group numbers. Two main awards are given each year, Best Performance by an Actress and Best Performance by an Actor.

The Journey to the Jimmy Awards

To make it to the Jimmy Awards, students must first excel in their local or regional theatre competitions. These regional awards programs, known as “Theatre Awards,” exist in various cities and states across the country. Winners of these regional programs then advance to the national level—the Jimmy Awards. The program impacts over 140,000 students annually who participate in high school musical theatre competitions sponsored by over forty professional theatres throughout the US. Amazing!

The Jimmy Award nominees travel to New York City for a week in June. I’m certain that the opportunity to travel to NYC is exciting enough for the young people. The week culminates with a live show in which the winners are determined. During the week, the nominees rehearse their performances for the award show and receive coaching from industry professionals.

The Jimmy Awards Show

The show begins with an opening number (typically a “mega-mix of contemporary Broadway hits”) involving all nominees, followed by a series of “showcase medleys”, in which several nominees appear in costume in the role they performed in their high school’s musical, each in turn singing a short solo, while the remaining performers act as backup singers and dancers. These medleys have gained a cult following, with fans appreciating the crossover between disparate popular musicals.Since 2016, due to an increasing number of nominees and time limitations, only a portion of nominees have participated in showcase medleys, with the remainder instead performing in a group number.

Judging at the Jimmy Awards

During an intermission, a panel of experts selects about eight finalists. During the show’s second half, the finalists each perform a solo, and the winners are announced. All finalists also receive a $3,000 scholarship toward their future education. In addition to the main awards of Best Performance by an Actress and Best Performance by an Actor, other awards are given out with smaller prizes. In 2023, awards were given for Best Dancer, Rising Star, Best Performance in an Ensemble, and Spirit of the Jimmys. Additionally, each of these aforementioned awards include a $2,000 scholarship.

The week-long program is rigorous and transformative. Participants attend masterclasses, workshops, and rehearsals led by Broadway professionals. Also, they have the opportunity to meet and learn from peers who share their passion for theatre. As you would expect, they become part of a a supportive and inspiring community. If you’d like to teach your students about the Tony awards, check out: Drama Class Tony Awards Study and Game

Eva Noblezda, winner of Jimmy Awards, 2019

The Impact of the Jimmys

The Jimmy Awards make a profound impact on the lives of young performers. Many past participants go on to successful careers in theatre, film, and television. Notable alumni include Eva Noblezada, who starred in Miss Saigon and Hadestown on Broadway, and Andrew Barth Feldman, playing the title role in Dear Evan Hansen.

The exposure and training provided by the Jimmys can open doors to prestigious performing arts colleges and professional opportunities. In addition to the invaluable experience, students also compete for significant scholarships, helping to ease the financial burden of pursuing a career in the arts. If you are looking for an excellent theatre program in a small college, check out my Alma Mater, Stephens College.

Why the Jimmys Matter

Perhaps this is the best reason for the Jimmy Awards. They not only recognize and reward talent but also highlight the importance of arts education in schools. With school systems making cuts to the arts almost on a daily basis, this award is hugely important. Musical theatre programs provide students with a creative outlet. Additionally, they teach valuable life skills, and foster a sense of community. The Jimmy awards celebrate the hard work of students, teachers, and schools, encouraging the continued support and development of arts programs nationwide.

How to Support the Jimmy Awards

There are several ways to support the Jimmy Awards and the young performers they celebrate. As simple as it sounds, please attend local high school musical productions. Or you can donate to arts education programs. Or help spread the word about the importance of the arts in schools. Additionally, watching the Jimmy Awards ceremony you can help raise awareness and appreciation for these talented young artists. There are plenty of theater teachers desperate for funds.

In conclusion, as you can see here, the Jimmy Awards are more than just a competition. They are a celebration of the future of musical theatre. The Jimmy awards play a crucial role in ensuring that the magic of Broadway continues to thrive for generations to come.

This year’s Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Josh Groban, star of the recent revival of Sweeney Todd: the Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Talk about a talent! If you are interested in teaching your students about Josh Groban, pick up this Dramamommaspeaks resource: Josh Groban Biography Lesson and One Pager Assignment.

Are you and your students familiar with The Jimmy Awards? I’d love to hear about it. Email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques

June 12, 2024 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques

If you are a new drama teacher for middle school, you may find that although the students are excited they have no idea what to expect. Additionally, they may be reluctant to participate or even disinterested (how could anyone be disinterested in theater?) because your class could be a pre-elective and everyone takes it. Or maybe the school counselor plopped them in your class so they get their arts credit completed. I can help you! This post concerns superhero drama: captivating classroom techniques.

This happened to me. Many years ago, when I discovered I had students that fit this aforementioned description, I completely reorganized my lesson plans. Instead of the traditional lesson you might teach beginners (intro. to theater, breathing exercises, monologues and duets) I taught with non-threatening and more group exercises. One thing that always worked with them was superheroes.

Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques

Superheroes have always fascinated audiences, capturing the imagination of both young and old. Their tales of courage, conflict, and victory make them perfect tools for engaging students in the drama classroom. Simply put, super heroes are a safe subject with them. Using superhero themes can spark students’ creativity. In addition it can make learning more relatable, and deepen their understanding of dramatic arts. Here’s how you can leverage superheroes to create an engaging drama classroom experience.

The Magnetic Appeal of Superheroes

Superheroes embody themes like good versus evil, identity, and transformation and everyone understands those themes. Additionally, they are rich in dramatic potential. By incorporating these familiar and exciting characters into drama lessons, you can immediately capture students’ attention and make learning more engaging.

Super Hero Lesson Number One

Start by analyzing popular superheroes. Discuss their backstories, motivations, strengths, and weaknesses. This familiar territory makes character analysis more accessible and exciting for students. Plus, it helps them understand the nuances of character development.

The first lesson I teach them is Storytelling with Postcards Super Hero Themed. Students are placed in small groups. Their challenge is to select five postcard cards at random from a box or hat. The group creates a story about a super hero integrating the postcards images, words, or themes into the story. But, the story must be about you as the super hero. Talk about fun! Students enjoy telling the story together–see? No performing alone. For more information, check out the lesson here.

Lesson Plan Number Two: Costume Design and Stagecraft

Designing sets and costumes for superhero-themed performances can enhance the visual appeal of drama and teach students about stagecraft. This hands-on approach can make the learning experience more engaging and memorable. Encouraging students to create their own superheroes taps into their creativity. It allows them to apply their understanding of character development in a very relaxed manner. This activity not only engages students but also helps them develop their storytelling abilities. Plus, students can study costume design at the same time. Check out this resource here.

Lesson Number Three: Playwriting and the Monologue

Superhero stories are rich with conflict and moral dilemmas, perfect for exploring plot development and thematic elements in drama. Discussing these common superhero conflicts can make complex dramatic concepts more accessible and engaging. Another lesson which they enjoy is writing a monologue as themselves as the super hero. You might think this would be too difficult for your students, but if you give them a framework they will be successful. Check out this resource here.

Lesson Number Four: Encouraging Movement and Tableaux

Superhero scenarios are perfect for practicing movement and tableaux–two crucial components in drama. Tableaux is an easy concept for everyone to understand. There are many ways to demonstrate it through the use of super heroes–maybe a group shows the moment Super Man protects someone from a monster? Or Wonder Woman holds back the ocean so that a group of boaters aren’t drowned by it?

Students are familiar with super heroes jumps, falls, lunges and spins. By studying movement using the super hero theme, students yet again feel comfortable moving around the room as they learn various elements of movement. These scenarios often involve unexpected situations, requiring quick thinking and adaptability, which keeps students on their toes. Using those lessons to lead into studying tableau, makes for effortless studying of tableaux. Check out this lesson here.

Lesson Number Five: Improvisation

Superhero scenarios are perfect for practicing improvisation, a crucial skill in drama. These scenarios often involve unexpected situations and require quick thinking and adaptability, By doing so, this keeps students on their toes. My favorite way to teach improvisation to novices is through a few warm up exercises. This exercise is titled “My Three Headed Monster” but it would be just as fun if the monster became a three headed super hero. Pick it up here (page one) and here (page two) Again, I have found this is always a successful teaching experience because students sit together on the stage. Although they are speaking spontaneously they must work out answers together.

Reflective Learning

Make sure that after each activity you encourage students to reflect on their performances. Process is everything! Discussing what they learned and how they felt embodying their superheroes can deepen their understanding and appreciation of drama. Grab this bundle which can last over five days Super here.

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Super Hero Quotes as Writing Prompts: Lesson Number Six

Using quotes spoken by super heroes for writing prompts is useful in this situation, too. Here are a few I like:

“With Great Power, Comes Great Responsibility.” Uncle Ben in Spider Man
“Heroes are made by the path they choose, not the powers they are graced with.” Iron Man
“You are much stronger than you think you are. Trust me.” Super Man
“You don’t need to be a super hero. You just need to be better than you were yesterday.”
“A true hero isn’t measured by the size of her strength, but by the strength of her heart.” Wonder Woman
“The woman who follows the crowd will grow no further than the crowd. The woman who walks alone is likely to find herself in places no one has ever been before.” Super Woman

Using superhero themes in the drama classroom can transform lessons into engaging, imaginative experiences. It is easy to connect dramatic principles to beloved characters. You can make learning more exciting and relatable for students. So, be courageous! Embrace your inner hero and lead your students on an epic journey through the world of drama, where creativity and engagement soar.

Have you ever taught using a super hero theme to teach concepts? I’d love to hear about it. Just email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

Timeless Triumphs: 8 Unforgettable High School Plays

April 28, 2024 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

It’s May and theater teachers are chatting about high school plays they are thinking of directing in the next school. Oh, gosh. I remember those times. Today let’s discuss timeless triumphs: 8 unforgettable high school plays.

As much as you consider and make predictions concerning your student body (how many males, how many females) for future productions, it’s still a crap shoot. For instance, students who have always been ardent theater lovers suddenly decide they want to play soccer in the fall and track in the spring. Sometimes it is difficult to keep a balanced perspective concerning our students’ choices. It is my opinion that a teacher must remind themself that primarily our job is to introduce theater to students who may not have ever considered it before. Hopefully those theater loving students will return to participate in the near future. Looking for the Stella Adler Acting Unit? Go here.

Timeless Triumphs: 8 Unforgettable High School Plays

Every high school drama department seeks that perfect play: the one that captivates audiences, challenges actors, and leaves a lasting impression long after the final curtain call. In the realm of high school theater, certain plays have stood the test of time, earning their place as perennial favorites. Let’s explore eight such masterpieces that continue to enchant audiences and inspire young actors around the world.

1. The Crucible by Arthur Miller:

Drama
Two hours
10 M, 10 F (plus extras)

Set during the Salem witch trials, The Crucible explores themes of hysteria, suspicion, and the consequences of unchecked power. This play tells the story of a village that becomes embroiled in a witch hunt. The people of Salem live in a constant state of fear as more and more people are accused of witchcraft. It is my belief that The Crucible is a perfect high school play, primarily because it offers many students an opportunity to participate. High school productions of Miller’s masterpiece often resonate deeply with audiences, sparking discussions about morality, justice, and the dangers of groupthink.

2. A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare:

Comedy
Two hours
20 characters, equally male and female

Credit: Aquinas Academy of Pittsburgh

Timeless Triumphs: 8 Unforgettable High School Plays

3. Our Town by Thornton Wilder:

Drama
Full-Length Play
7w, 17m

This Pulitzer Prize-winning play offers a poignant exploration of small-town life and the passage of time. Narrated by a stage manager, the production is performed with minimal props and sets. However, don’t be swayed by its simplicity. The play depicts the simple daily lives of the Webb and Gibbs families as their children fall in love, marry. The most poignant moment is eventually – in one of the most famous scenes in American theatre – death.

Thornton Wilder’s final word on how he wanted his play performed is an invaluable addition to the American stage and to the libraries of theatre lovers internationally. With its minimalist staging and universal themes, Our Town provides high school students with a profound theatrical experience that resonates with audiences of all ages.

How about a comedy?

4. The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde:

Full-length Play
Comedy
5m., 4w. (1 extra.)

Wilde’s razor-sharp wit and biting satire take center stage in this delightful comedy of manners. Set in England during the late 19th century, the play follows the lives of two young men, Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff, who adopt fictional identities to escape social obligations. Jack invents a brother named Ernest, while Algernon creates an invalid friend named Bunbury.

Not surprisingly, high school productions of The Importance of Being Earnest allow students to revel in the absurdities of Victorian society while honing their comedic timing and delivery. Note: This is a costume heavy show, but I still recommend it to directors because it’s worth the extra money to costume the students appropriately.

Dramatic Play, Anyone?

5. Inherit the Wind by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee:

Drama
Two Hours
21 men, 6 women, 2 boys, 1 girl, extras Many of the parts can be doubled

Inspired by the Scopes Monkey Trial, Inherit the Wind is a powerful courtroom drama that explores the clash between science and religion, freedom of thought, and the pursuit of truth. This story centers around a Tennessee teacher was tried for teaching the theory of evolution. As you might expect, two persuasive attorneys argue the case in an effort to determine the balance of church and state. High school productions of this play encourage critical thinking and foster discussions about education, censorship, and intellectual freedom.

6. The Giver adapted by Eric Coble from the novel by Lois Lowry:

Drama
4m., 4w., extras as desired or 4m., 2w. with doubling, extras as desired.
90 minutes

Based on Lois Lowry’s dystopian novel, The Giver offers a thought-provoking exploration of a society that suppresses individuality and emotion in pursuit of stability. To begin with, the story follows Jonas, a boy living in a community based on Sameness. During the Ceremony of Twelve, he is selected as the community’s new Receiver of Memory. The old Receiver, who Jonas calls The Giver, transmits generational memories to the young boy by placing his hands on Jonas’s bare back.

High school productions of The Giver allow students to delve into themes of identity, freedom, and the consequences of conformity, sparking important conversations about societal norms and individuality. I directed The Giver for a the Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies community theater in Colorado. It was sensational having a mixed age cast, but high school students can excel with it as well. For more information about The Giver, check out: The Reasons I Love The Giver Play

Historical Plays Worth Producing

7. The Diary of Anne Frank by Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett:

Drama
Full Length
5 men, 5 women (3 extras)

Based on the real-life diary of Anne Frank, this powerful play chronicles the experiences of a Jewish family hiding from the Nazis during World War II. High school productions of The Diary of Anne Frank offer students the opportunity to explore themes of resilience, hope, and the human spirit in the face of adversity. I directed The Diary of Anne Frank with a community theater. It was an unforgettable experience for everyone concerned. However, one challenge for us was that the stage was the shape of an octagon. Looking for more information about this high school play? Check out: The Most Important Play I’ve Directed in My 38 Year Career

8. The Miracle Worker by William Gibson:

Drama
Two hours
7 M, 7F (with extras)

Inspired by the true story of Helen Keller and her teacher Anne Sullivan, “The Miracle Worker” is a compelling exploration of perseverance, communication, and the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. William Gibson’s drama chronicles the relationship between the real-life Helen Keller, a young girl from Alabama who was blind and deaf, and her teacher, the Irish, headstrong Annie Sullivan from Boston. It’s sensational theater.

Without a doubt, high school plays such as The Miracle Worker provide students with the opportunity to portray iconic historical figures while delving into themes of empathy, determination, and the transformative power of education.

Why do I select older plays to direct?

When you are a purist as I am concerning high school plays, you stick close to tried and true material. That doesn’t mean I haven’t done my share of more modern plays. I’ve directed a few. However, I think it’s important that our students broaden their knowledge base and ultimately, their resume by participating in the classics. You simply can’t go wrong with them.

In the world of high school theater, these eight high school plays stand out as enduring classics or at the very least of the classic nature.. They continue to captivate audiences and inspire young actors. From thought-provoking dramas to poignant historical narratives, each play offers students the opportunity to delve into complex characters.

These Plays are Winners for High School

As I stated previously, by exploring universal themes students can learn what it takes to create unforgettable theatrical experiences. In short, these high school plays demand it of them. As high school drama departments continue to stage these masterpieces, they ensure that the magic of theater lives on for generations to come.

Do you have a high school play which you would add to this list? I’d love to know about it. Contact me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com.

Directing students in Aladdin, Jr.

8 Middle School Plays That Work Every Time

April 23, 2024 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

8 Middle School Plays That Work Every Time

Teachers often ask me for middle school play titles. So, let’s talk about this today, 8 middle school plays that work every time. I hope this list will help you as you consider what you’d like to direct in the next school year. Having directed hundreds of play and musical for over 38 years, I have a vast experience in this subject. It is my goal to provide all the details and links that lead you to purchasing a preview of the scripts.

Before you begin reading this post, please know that I am a purist. I don’t do direct cute bunny or zombie storis, if you know what I mean. Frankly, I think a teacher shouldn’t cater to the emotional level of the students but have high expectations of them. What could be better than a play based on a classic novel or one with historical significance?

Here are a few I recommend you read and consider. I’ve listed these scripts in no particular order.

8 Middle School Plays That Work Every Time

Anne of Green Gables adapted by Sylvia Ashby.

Drama/Comedy
9 M and 7 F plus extras
120 minutes in length

Synopsis: A refreshing, contemporary telling of the classic story. Stern Marilla and her warm-hearted brother Matthew hoped to adopt a boy to work on their farm. But the orphanage sends young, befreckled Anne by mistake, and their lives will never be the same. Her warmth and wit affect everyone around her – even, eventually, the cold Marilla. We follow Anne through her rebellious years, her transformation into a young woman, and her romantic pairing with Gilbert. This play has been charming audiences around the world. Read more about this script here: Ten Reasons Why Everyone Produces Anne of Green Gables

Tom Sawyer adapted by Tim Kelly

Drama/ Comedy
9 to 11M., 12F plus extras
90 minutes in length

The child in all of us never gets tired of reliving again and again the antics and adventures of Tom, Huck, Becky Thatcher and all the rest of Mark Twain’s beloved characters. All the familiar characters are here—Huckleberry Finn, Aunt Polly, Becky Thatcher, Widow Douglas, Muff Potter, Cousin Mary and menacing Injun Joe. The action flows well, and scenes fly by in a lively fashion: the classic “fence-painting” scene, the school lessons from strict Mr. Dobbins, the eerie murder of Doc Robinson in the graveyard at midnight, the pirate journey to Jackson’s Island where buried treasure proves very dangerous, Tom’s side-splitting “funeral,” Tom’s courtship of Becky and other scenes from the immortal classic. If you want a study guide for Tom Sawyer which includes a set design lesson, check out: Drama Lesson Tom Sawyer

8 Middle School Plays That Work Every Time

Number the Stars adapted by Douglas Larche

Drama
7 M and 7 F, extras
80 minutes in length

During the German occupation of Denmark in World War II, the Nazis closed down Jewish-owned businesses and began to round up the Jews for relocation to concentration camps for the final solution. Danish freedom fighters of all ages risked everything in daring, hurried attempts to rescue the entire Jewish population. In this stirring play, young Annemarie and Kirsti Johansen face soldiers, interrogations, fierce dogs, personal danger, the loss of loved ones and their own fears as they try to help their friend Ellen Rosen escape across the ocean to Sweden and safely.

Courage, faith, ingenuity and even their fledgling acting skills eventually win the day. All the drama, pathos, adventure, terror and humor that have made Number the Stars a national best seller (and winner of the Newberry Award and the American Library Association Book of the Year Award) come to life in this powerful adaptation.

Bringing History to Life

If you are looking for a week’s worth of drama class lessons for the first week of school, check out: First Week of School Drama Lessons

Orphan Train by Aurand Harris

Drama/Comedy
6m., 7w., 6 boys, 6 girls, or 11 (1m., 1w., 3 boys, 6 girls) with doubling.
65 minutes in length

The play tells the story of nine orphans on an “orphan train” that left New York City on May 28, 1914. The train travels to Midwestern towns in search of homes, any homes, anywhere for the orphaned and unwanted children. There’s Mary, Evie, spunky Pegeen, Annie and Little Lucy, a quiet one. Other orphans include Frank (who later becomes Frankie, a small girl), Raymond, Lucky and Danny the song-and-dance boy. And there are the men and women hoping for children. The lonesome whistle wails as the train chugs between encounters of anxiety, laughter, wistfulness, rejection and acceptance. Eight stories unfold, each a memorable surprise. The Orphan Train is a charming heart-warmer and all we expect from one of legendary playwrights for children, Aurand Harris. The staging creates a highly theatrical story, moving, amusing and always tellingly human.

More Middle School Plays

The Princess Who Became King

Drama
6w, 14m, 5 any gender (youth)
90 minutes in length

From the author of the very popular Anne of Green Gables. Freely adapted from an Indian tale, this spritely comedy serves up a blend of love, adventure and intrigue. On the eve of their wedding, Ravi and Parijata flee from their homes because their fathers are feuding — due to the schemes of an ambitious Guru. Parijata’s father is the terrible tempered Raja; Ravi’s father is the foolishly superstitious Sultan. On a dangerous forest journey, the Princess loses her amazing performing monkey, Zmarti, and is kidnapped by Gumba, a cloddish thief. After numerous chases and mistaken identities, the play ends in happy reunion and reconciliation and a surprise coronation! This play can be produced with colorful, elaborate scenery, or with almost no scenery at all.

Story Theater stories from Grimm Brothers and Aesop adapted by Paul Sills.

Drama/Comedy
When I direct this play, I split up the stories and used as many students as I needed for each one.
90 minutes in length

Mr. Sills started in New Haven and wound up on Broadway with this group of famous fables from the Grimm Brothers and Aesop. Here you will meet again Henny Penny, the Golden Goose, Venus and the Cat, the Fisherman and His Wife, the Robber Baron, the Bremen Towson Musicians, and other favorites. The fables require talented actors with expressive bodies. And make no mistakes about the quality: this is top-drawer adult theatre.

8 Middle School Plays That Work Every Time

The Little Princess adapted by June Walker Rogers

Drama
6m 13F
90 minutes in length

Sara Crewe is one of the most beloved fictional heroines, and June Walker Rogers has brought her to life in this funny, sad, wonderfully imaginative adaptation. Audiences will identify with Sara as she begins her adventures in “Miss Minchin’s Select Seminary for Young Ladies”; laugh with her as she brings happiness to others; weep with her as her fortune changes from rich girl to poor orphan; and rejoice with her when strange events bring still another reversal of her destiny. This is a lovely play!

The Emperor’s New Clothes

Comedy
11 actors, flexible (many of the roles can be played by men or women).
50 minutes

A bright, crisp, well-tailored dramatization of the Hans Christian Andersen tale. Snip and Tuck, two swindlers posing as tailors, weave a jolly trick on Emperor Velvet, who is willing to sacrifice his castle, friends—even his Empress Velveteen and their children, Prince Terry Cloth and Princess Polly Ester—to buy the most luxurious new clothes available. As you might expect, the “tailors” pull the wool over everybody’s eyes until a homespun boy has the courage to speak the unadorned truth, and all the fools are uncovered at last—and the swindlers are turned over to Shroud, keeper of the (shh-whisper) dungeon. The cleverly patterned characters and silky smooth plot will keep your audiences in stitches. Sharon A. Cole brought the characters to life with strong but humorous personalities that your cast members will love playing. Every role is a gem.

The Bridge to Terabithia Adapted by author, Katherine Patterson

Drama
3 Male 6 Female
90 minutes in length

This powerful adaptation, supported by a lyrical score, focuses the humor, warmth and emotional intensity of Katherine Paterson’s Newbery Award winning novel.

Jesse, alienated from the pragmatism of his family and rural Virginia culture, draws and dreams of becoming something special. Then the new girl, Leslie, who just moved in from the city and the ultimate outsider, opens a world of imagination, art and literature for him

Together they create Terabithia, a fantasy kingdom where they are safe from those who don’t understand them. Their friendship grows as Jesse’s world expands. However, when tragedy strikes, the strength gained in Terabithia takes Jesse forward on his own and lets him share the magic of his dreams

Lastly, I wanted to include one of my favorites to direct around Halloween. It’s just fun!

It’s a Howl! by Tim Kelly

Comedy
8 M and 14W
90 minutes in length

Teenager Jane Hastings inherits remote and creepy Wolfbane Abbey. It’s a combination school and clinic for students who have trouble “adjusting.” No wonder – they’re werewolves! To begin with, the doctor who runs the Abbey decides Jane must be driven out of her mind so he can be trustee. This isn’t as easy as it sounds – even though the place is filled with more horrors than a wax museum. With two friends, Jane does her best to sort out the Abbey’s problem and “curse.” The characters are great fun to play in this fast-paced spoof, including bewildered police, a werewolf hunter, weird students, a gypsy who spends most of her time in a scary laboratory, and a reporter from a scandal magazine. And that’s just for openers…don’t forget the vampire. Not surprisingly, laughs collide with screams and the ending has plenty of bite.

Looking for a few other plays that might be successful with your students? Check out: The Ten Reasons Everyone Produces The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Looking for bundles of drama lessons for middle school? You know I’ve got you covered. Bundle Volume 3 Middle School Drama Units

Whew! That’s quite a list. Have you directed any of these plays? I’d love to hear about your experiences. Email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

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

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Timeless Triumphs: 8 Unforgettable High School Plays

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How about a comedy?

Dramatic Play, Anyone?

Historical Plays Worth Producing

Why do I select older plays to direct?

These Plays are Winners for High School

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8 Middle School Plays That Work Every Time

8 Middle School Plays That Work Every Time

8 Middle School Plays That Work Every Time

Bringing History to Life

More Middle School Plays

8 Middle School Plays That Work Every Time

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