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![]() J. Wallace James Arts and “Academic Excellence Through, With, and In the Arts and Technology” Drama Class Philosophy:
Never be afraid to use your imagination!
Hello there, I would like to welcome both students and parents to the J. Wallace James Drama program. I am so excited about the 2011-2012 school year. Participation in the Drama program requires a measure of commitment and focus. Fourth and fifth grade drama students will also take on a leadership role at J. W. James since we perform in front of such large audiences. Cooperation of parents and students is essential to make this class a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Drama is a wonderful opportunity for your child to explore his or her talents. Some of the many skills learned in Drama include: creativity in problem solving, critical thinking, communication, public speaking/ performing, self-control, discipline, teamwork and collaboration. Drama provides young people with a means of purposeful recreation that can aid in building a positive self image. During the Art Walk, which will take place on Friday, January 27, students will be exposed to various art forms through hands-on activities,demonstrations, displays and performances by community artists. Email me if you (or someone you know) are willing to share your art form/hobby with students during the Art Walk. Drama details can be obtained by visiting http://new.schoolnotes.com/briggs/. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at hkbriggs@lpssonline.com.
Sincerely, Hannah Briggs K through 2nd Exploratory Drama: These students are currently studying the four drama focus words:imagination, transformation, imitation, and concentration. Students learn how to work individually, with a partner, and in larger groups using the three drama tools: body, mind, and voice. Parts of the story including characters and types of characters are included in the K-2nd drama curriculum as well. Teamwork and cooperation are also skills that second graders master while in Drama. Furthermore, drama skills are used to reinforce what is taught by their classroom teachers. 3rd Grade Exploratory Drama: Third grade Drama students have been introduced to the three drama tools: body, mind, and voice. Why Lapin’s Tail is Short will be performed by the third grade Drama students during class time from 1:20-2:10 PM in the cafetorium in mid January. Please read this script with your child. Attached to the script is a short excerpt that your child has been instructed to memorize. Please work with them on the "monologue" every night as students will be using this for try-outs soon. I am asking students to speak with loud, clear, expressive voices. I will also be watching for movement and gestures. All students will be required to try out even if they are not interested in a speaking part as this assignment will be graded. I am using this "try-out" as an entrance assessment for fourth grade Drama as well. Thank you so much for taking interest in your child's artistic studies. If you have any questions, please let me know and I will get back to you as soon as possible.
Recently, fourth grade drama students reviewed skills mastered in previous years at James. While studying the importance of “planning and practicing,” students hosted a grand circus including lions and tamers,jugglers, tight rope walkers, and clowns. Another performance in which students participated was a retelling of The Tortoise and the Hare. Both shows proved to be exciting for all and reinforced important skills needed for advancement in drama. Soon, fourth grade drama students will begin studying improvisation, a form of theatre (often comedic) in which actors follow no prepared script but rather create story lines “on the spot.” Guest artists assisting with this unit will encourage the young actors to “take risks” and be creative while onstage. 5th Grade Drama Elective: In January, fifth grade drama students will begin working on a short monologue which can be used for L. J.Alleman auditions in the spring. If you have any questions about LJA auditions, email me.
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