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Homeschooling Through High School ~ Incorporating Theater and Drama Into Your Homeschool

11:01 PM, Nov. 4, 2008

When we come to the question of how to incorporate theater into our homeschool, the answer becomes a little more involved. Theater can be a bit tricky since sometimes even the most simple and naive looking scripts may be interpreted in a way that is offensive.

I remember going to a "student" performance of a Shakespeare play. We were assured before attending that anything crass would be toned down to accommodate the students attending the "student" performance. However, it wasn't very long into the performance before we all realized that our definition of "student" friendly must be vastly different from those doing the performing. This is what makes theater so challenging if you are wanting to incorporate attendance at performances into your family's lifestyle. However, don't despair and definitely don't give up. Just do your homework! There are more and more Christians becoming involved in this area and desiring to be salt and light and they need our support of their calling by attending and promoting their performances.

So, how do we incorporate theater into our regular homeschool lifestyle. If at all possible, incorporate the reading of scripts and theater pieces into your study of literature. Shakespeare is a great way to introduce theater to your students and also a great way to get them used to becoming a character within a story. If at all possible, group readings of plays are another great way to add some social time to your study of theater. There are more and more homeschool groups out there that are striving to provide group opportunities to participate in theater productions.
I know that at Artios Academies, God has provided us ways to produce full scale productions at local theater venues for several years now. What an incredible opportunity for students to gain experience but also a valuable opportunity to learn to be salt and light within their community. When reading a variety of scripts, you will find ample opportunities to discuss the playwrite's worldview as evidenced in his work and in some cases be able to find ways to redeem and reclaim works that need a new and Biblical worldview applied to them.

As always, when becoming involved in a group activity, be sure to research the philosophy, worldview, and leadership of any organization. Just as you would check out the qualities of a performance you are considering attending, be sure to also check out the adults that you allow your student to be influenced by in this area.

Looking forward to discussing media arts next week!

Faith and Courage,

Lori Lane

Lori is married to the love of her life John and together they have four sons ranging in age from 22 down to 10. She is the author of “Beginning With The End In Mind”, a frequent speaker on home education, family and the arts, as well as serving as the Executive Director of The Artios Academies. (www.artiosacademies.com) You can see some of the pictures of their home in the central Colorado Rockies by visiting Lori’s website at www.theendinmind.net where you will receive encouragement for the journey.

Posted in Homeschooling Through High School, 1 comments, Link
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Winning gift idea: ShowSmarts - an award-winning, grass roots, 'how to' book for organizing and directing student shows

11:43 AM, Nov. 18, 2008, posted by Anonymous

I am the author of ShowSmarts: The Volunteer's Guide for Putting on Shows with Kids. It is a unique 'mentoring' how-to resource that very easily steps adults through the process of organizing and directing student shows. Actually, any show. But specifically the contents of ShowSmarts supports the everyday, worldwide grass-root talents and abilites of laymen who keep kids and the performing arts together.

Filled with step-by-step checklists, quick tips, and a focus on personal help - gleaned from the 56 surprise guests of the book - anyone can put on a Talent show, write their own stage material, set-up a one-minute 'family funny' stage monolouge and sooo much more. Best of all, involvement in any and every show job teaches our kids employable skills and develops personal traits that WILL enrich their chosen career paths.

If you're thinking about putting together a homeschoolling performing event ...for the holidays, at your church or in your community (which I hope you do because it's so mentally and creatively refreshing plus KIDS and FAMILIES and FRIENDS love the whole experience) I encourage you to take a look at ShowSmarts. Go to: www.iuniverse.com/bookstore Type in ShowSmarts and click.

This is a soft-cover book that's extremely easy to understand, contains many examples of posters, casting cards, tickets, homemade props, fundraising ideas, and on page 213 there's a "Substitute words for swear words" list.

Moreover, ShowSmarts is all about adults having a conscienceness about pointing out the employable business training the kids are getting just by being involved in the show. Lessons like: teamwork, self-discipline, problem-solving, how auditions are no different than job interviews, so SO much more.

Another unique SURPRISE: Very personally written for educators, on pages 158-159, is a true 'must read' exclusive short story by (the late) George Carlin (he was a friend of mine) found in the Intermission section. His story's bottomline is about looking beyond the problem and into the promise of kids. He shares his own personal experience.

I always say that the best gift you can give a child is a great childhood. I believe involvement opportunities in any kind of big or little performing event... helps make great childhoods.

My name is Terra Koerpel. You can reach me at
terra.koerpel@gmail.com
Thanks homeschooling moms and dads. I've always admired your synergy.
If you put on a show and need help, please contact me.

Happy Holidays. :)

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