Teaching Drama

Divergent learning is all about extending from a common point in many different directions — seeing multiple solutions, embracing different ways of thinking, and acknowledging that every individual...

Even in the middle of struggle, the arts create space for laughter, beauty, imagination, and play. They remind us that humans are storytellers and creators, capable of imagining solutions,...

Ideally, we want students to study characters and bring them to life through scene work. But what if you have students who have been away during rehearsals and you need a related activity for them...

One of the most powerful things a theatre program can offer students is not just performance skills, but real empowerment. Empowerment in theatre education isn’t about giving students free rein...

How do the arts make life more bearable? Click below to access a one-class lesson plan that uses this George Bernard Shaw quote as its starting point: “Without art, the crudeness of reality would...

Do your students know how to form their own artistic opinions without being swayed by others? Can they confidently stand by their perspective, even if they disagree with a show that has received...

Every drama teacher knows that advocating for their students, programs, and productions is essential. Even the most successful programs can be misunderstood or undervalued. The first step is...

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance as a theatre teacher can feel like walking a tightrope. Between directing shows, coordinating rehearsals, and guiding students through creative growth, it’s...

You’ve picked your next play or musical - hooray! The script is chosen, the dates are set, and your students can’t wait to hear what it is. Now comes the next big step: How do you share the news in...

The drama classroom can be a stressful place. Between an ever-changing, dynamic curriculum and the daily demands of classroom teaching, it’s easy to find yourself in a perpetual state of anxiety....

Great teaching isn’t just about what you know, it’s about daring to try what you don’t. Stepping into unfamiliar territory can be scary, and who has the time for it when you’re teaching full days...

Theatre in the classroom is more than lines, scripts, and stages. It’s about building a community. A strong ensemble creates a brave space for students to explore, take risks, and develop their own...

Teacher burnout is all too common, especially among theatre teachers. Theatre teachers have to deal with everything from apathetic students to overbearing admin, and that’s BEFORE the...

No matter what subject you teach, unacceptable behaviours can be found in every classroom. Because of how theatre classes are structured, some of these challenges may be more prevalent in the drama...

The break is over. The decorations are packed away, your coffee mug has been upgraded to “extra large,” and it’s time to head back to the classroom. The post-holiday return can feel like a tough...

My first blog post at Theatrefolk went live 10 years ago (check it out here). Since then, I’ve realized that the most valuable lessons aren’t always about curriculum, rehearsal strategies, or...

These games and exercises are my go-to activities for teaching beginning drama students. They’re fun, engaging, effective, and give students a well-rounded overview of topics such as drama...

Intimacy direction isn’t just about staging romantic content onstage — although that is one component of the role. It’s about creating a culture of consent, clarity, and safety in any moment of...