Homeschool families or homeschool co-ops can have a fun time creating their own mini-play! Theater can combine all sorts of subjects – from reading, to art, music, and even science or history – as well as development of speaking skills, confidence, memory work, team work and advertising. Here are a few ideas to get your own creative ball rolling!
Pick a play
Will your kids write their own play or use one already written? If you are directing them to write their own, here is your chance to focus their creative juices on whatever topic you’d like them to study. Is there a time period in history you’ve learned about, an important person, a local tale from your community or a unit in their science textbook that needs a bit more coverage? Have your little theatrical artists use this topic as their launch pad. Or, if you are in the market for a ready-to-go play, check your local library or do a quick internet search. There are loads of “readers’ theater” plays available. You could also use a section of a classic play.
Design the set
Now, set design can become an entire monster itself. Set your boundaries on how much time, space, and money you are willing to spend and be certain to stick to it. If you are working with a co-op full of kids, give your set-designers the parameters they must work within and let them go. Give them this chance to release their creativity, but stay nearby in case they need some adult help.
Make the costumes
As with the set, the costumes can easily get out of hand if you let them. Grab a few moms and position them near the costume designers. You can allow for sewing machines, give a few lessons or provide a huge stash of old clothes and accessories to help make costumes.
Learn the lines
Give your kids the time they need to memorize their lines and help them at home. Of course, keep the length of lines appropriate for the ages and group. You’re nearly there!
Invite the guests
Give your artists a chance to make some posters and invitations for the play. Invite family members, potential homeschoolers, neighbors and other homeschool families. Get ready for your fun show! You can save the play performance for an end-of-the-year party or fun holiday event, or you can have a special event just for the play. You can even take your play on the road and share it with a nursing home!
As you can see, there are spots for everyone when it comes to plays and theater. Your play can be as intricate and detailed as you’d like or as simple and easy as you’d like. Keep your kids focused, set that performance date and have fun! Don’t forget the camera . . . oh, and break a leg!
Lindsay Banton is a caffeinated mother to three great kids. She never expected to homeschool, but has found that it is a wonderful addition to their lifestyle and wouldn’t change it for the world. In addition to homeschooling, Lindsay works alongside her husband in campus ministry at a large university in Connecticut. She grew up in Virginia but has settled into life in New England, learning to love the long winters, cool springs, green summers and gorgeous autumns- and has built a boot collection to meet all the demands. She is currently blogging at www.oaksreplanted.blogspot.com.
