Drama

Drama Play Photos by Anthony K Lam Photography

Intro to Drama for 8th grade is designed for students to slowly build confidence through the curriculum until they are ready to produce and perform in a simple One Act play. Students start by slowly learning the three basic rules to improv, “Make your partner look good,” “First thought, best thought,” and “Yes! And…” The students practice executing these rules in a series of small improv games where they also learn the foundations and rules of playing well with others. As 8th graders, it is crucial for them to work together to create an environment founded in emotional safety with one another (to qualm fears of judgment) and that also encourages risk-taking (such as shouting “refrigerator!” during an improv game which may or may not land with their audience). Once they have played a series of improv games, the students learn the rules of directing beautiful and clear stage pictures. Using Levels, Emphasis, Symmetry, and Clarity of Plot, the students create a series of 10-12 silent stage pictures that tell the story of a Greek myth. Their group work performance also tests them on their skills in playing well with others. In the second half of the semester, the 8th graders put on a 40-minute play where every student receives not only an acting role, but a role in the creation of the set, props, costumes, and production details. Intro to Drama is a way for middle schoolers to build soft skills that include, but are not limited to, public speaking, personal confidence, working as a team, and effectively telling stories.

Enrichment course in Drama

Griffin Players: Griffin Players is Glendale Prep’s extra-curricular theatre company, producing 2 shows a year. Participation is open to 7-12 graders in these areas:
Acting
Stage management
Assistant directing
Publicity
Set design/construction/painting
Props design/accusation/organization
Costume design/alteration/organization
Sound design
Lightboard/soundboard operator
Stagehand

Benefits of taking part in an extra-curricular show:

  • Make friends and deepen friendships
  • Develop leadership and collaboration skills
  • Build self-confidence
  • Nurture self-expression
  • Be a part of something bigger

Rehearsals Monday, Tuesday, Thursday after school until 5:30pm with the possibility of up to two Saturday rehearsals.

To sign up for an enrichment course, click here.