The world of the play - Sets

Last week I did a quick presentation for the students about simple DIY backdrops, and the difference between set pieces, props, and a backdrop.  The students were then put into their groups for the plays. We sent out a note ahead of time to find out which students would be able to attend Arts Night, and which would not. Those who cannot attend do not have speaking roles, but are instead in charge of documenting what is needed for sets, props, the backdrop and helping to put it all together - they are the designers.  Once in their groups in the different classrooms, the designers listened to the actors read the play aloud, all the while marking down the clues they heard in the script that would let them know what would be needed to make the play come to life.  I believe this is a great way for the students to have to think deeply about the world of the play, and read carefully looking for context clues.

All made with construction paper - 3-D Straw and everything! A great example of how to do a lot with simple materials. 

The sheets that they recorded all of this information on will be utilized this week when be begin to work on the backdrops and sets, as well as the first foray's into costume design.

The students were doing a great job of dreaming big, and then getting creative with problem solving when they realized - for example- Gigantic fish tanks filled with fish may look awesome on stage - but would be pretty much impossible for our quick productions (however, I made sure to let this particular student know - in theater in the professional world that could happen! - I have seen plays in a theater where they make it actually rain!)



The one thing about this process that I keep thinking about is the problem of  a "finished production." There is pressure for these to be quick, clean and neat mini plays with little to no chance of failure. I think to make this a truly enriching experience, it would be great to allow the students to be COMPLETELY in charge of their production (with the caveat they could only use materials provided in the classroom - that every student had the same things to work from). Let them perform, film them, and let them receive feedback from their fellow students, and also to watch themselves, and then give them time to revise and try again.

Art without the ability to risk and fail and risk again doesn't truly teach us that it is ok to be vulnerable, to be brave and put forth your ideas, use your imagination and be bold.  There is no right way to do a play - especially a piece written and interpreted by kids.