At drama camp, young actors are challenged to develop their acting techniques in workshops and rehearsals. They learn to make decisions on how to portray their character, create costumes, props and sets and choose sound and lighting in order to convey the emotion of the story.
Script Selection
Choosing scripts at the skill level of the actors and that are not too ambitious to be produced in a week saves frustration later. Consider the number and age of actors to determine the duration of the play. For one week drama camp productions for grades 3-8, purchase 45 minute to 1 hour productions scripts.
Find free scripts online, or for purchase, with or without royalties. Royalties are often based on whether tickets are sold and the number of productions.
Engage audiences using scripts that ask them to play along with characters who interact with them. Songs and dances that are well placed in the script help with pacing, convey emotions or simply delight the audience.
Auditions
Auditions assist the director to place actors in roles that best suit their skill level. Youth enjoy portraying characters unlike themselves so don’t type cast. Ask potential actors to play a few games, act out scenarios and read lines from the play to get a sense of their comfort and aptitude. For a plethora of loosening up, scenario and improvisation exercises see online resources or sources below. Or, write scenarios to meet group needs and script themes.
Have participants complete a questionnaire to determine whether they like to memorize lines, what size role they are interested in, whether they mind playing opposite gender roles and listing previous drama experience so the drama coach has the information needed to place them well. Roles should stretch but not frustrate actors.
Drama Camp Stations
Spend a portion of the day on rehearsals and the rest on preparation for the production. Establish stations for sets, crafts, props, costumes, games, music, dance and drama workshops so that participants have fun while preparing themselves and the stage. Schedule based on participant interest and availability between rehearsals. Remember to include tarps and paint shirts on the supply list.
Workshops and Dramatizations
Drama workshops provide practice in blocking, voice projection and intonation, facial expressions and body movement. Consider additional workshops on tableau, improv or pantomime.
Assign actors in teams; give teams a scenario and few minutes to practice and then act out on stage. Vote for the team that best demonstrates what was taught in the workshop. In addition to providing on stage experience which will help with pre-performance anxieties, the director can assess and critique developing acting technique.
Teach Themes
Since audience interest is captured and held by the characters’ ability to convey emotions, plan one session each day to teach about the themes of the play. When participants grapple with the issues in the play, they are not only learning how to depict their character but also to empathize with others and overcome difficulty.
Technical Aspects
Lighting and sound effects create mood and atmosphere. If these are not already included in the script, add them. Since the time to prepare for the final production is short, keep these simple.
Backstage Production
What goes on backstage is as important as what happens on stage. Youth should follow along in the script so they know when to pick up their props and come on stage in character.
Choreograph Bows
Give actors one last opportunity to convey their character through some distinguishing action and block out where to stand. Think of the finale bow as though a snapshot of the cast is being taken.
Production Night Enrichment
- Extend the set theme by the entrance and throughout the auditorium
- Display posters and key words from the script
- Feature actors with pictures and bios for the audience to glimpse prior to the production and take home as a reminder of a job well done
- Produce and distribute programs that provide a synopsis of the play, casting, production crew and a word from the director
- Receptions give guests the chance to celebrate the actor’s and leaders’ hard work with refreshments and words of encouragement
Beyond the gratification of a satisfying performance, actors at drama camp develop confidence, their acting technique and learn new presentation skills that they will use both on and off the stage.
Resources
Cresci, Maureen McCurry. Creative Dramatics. New Jersey: Scott, Foresman and Company, 1989.
Dunleavy, Deborah. The Jumbo Book of Drama. Toronto: Kids Can Press Ltd., 2004.
Bany-Winters, Lisa. On Stage: Theater Games and Activities for Kids.Chicago: Chicago Review Press, Incorporated, 1997.
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