Category: Theatre Education
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Seven Ways to Shine Up Your School’s Shows
Curtain Up What makes a piece of educational theatre successful? For starters, it is important that theatre educators remind themselves that, ultimately, everything they do is about the student experience. This does not mean that school productions can’t have a certain level of polish, and students can have complete confidence in what they’re doing onstage. No matter…
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How to Give Better Feedback to Young Artists
Recently, my son asked me to help interpret feedback that he received on a short film he submitted to a contest. Some comments were specific and useful, grounded in what he actually created and what a young filmmaker can realistically do. Others were far less clear. One in particular stood out: “The performer does not…
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The History of William Shakespeare (Abridged)
When discussing the foundations of modern theatre, the name William Shakespeare is impossible to ignore. Often referred to as one of the greatest playwrights in history, Shakespeare’s work has shaped storytelling, performance, and language. Dive into the history of William Shakespeare (abridged) to see how Shakespeare’s legacy has shaped theatre today. Early Life and Background…
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The Production Calendar: A Living Document
Whether you’re part of a multi-disciplinary arts team or a solo drama teacher at a small school, one way to reduce stress throughout the year is to spend some time on your production calendar. The calendar is never actually done. Think of it less like granite and more like sandstone; solid enough, but shaped by…
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The Ghost Light: The Theatre Tradition That Never Leaves the Stage
Long after the audience has gone home and the house lights are turned off, one light remains glowing on stage. Known as the ghost light, this single illuminated bulb has become one of theatre’s most enduring traditions—part practical safety measure, part superstition, and part shared cultural history. What is a Ghost Light? The ghost light…
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Three Things to Know When Selecting a High School Theatre Season
A high school theatre program is a special place. It is often a refuge for kids who are exploring who they are, pretending to be someone else for a few hours, or singing showtunes at the top of their lungs. A director unites these kids around a common goal through a production. There is a…