Pedagogical Theater: Dramaturgy and Performance Practice for the Lower, Middle, and High School - Paperback

by Arthur Pittis (Author)

Drama is a therapeutic and artistic stimulant for all students and people. During the Golden Age of Greece, the community insisted upon regular attendance at the theatre for the soul health of the citizenry. Admission was free. "Pedagogical Theatre" explores how drama, theatre, plays, and puppet shows can be incorporated into a school's curriculum. From grade one through grade twelve, different techniques are described for effective planning and accomplishment of plays on behalf of the children at each grade level. Writing the play, amending an existing space, correct assessment of appropriate plays for each grade level, assigning parts, memorizing lines, building sets and costumes making masks, the use of music in sports right through to writing and performing an opera, and balancing other parts of the school day when a play is in the process are all addressed in this rich resource for teachers and communities. In addition, succinct renderings of the history of theatre, available literature on drama in a school's context, and other resources for rehearsal and performance of a play are all topics addressed in this invaluable book. The book stimulates creative thoughts, courage, and competence in this demanding and rewarding arena of drama in a school's life and the life of each class. This book will enhance the capacity of any elementary, middle, or high school teacher. It will help any parent bent on having community theatre alive in a community and can broaden the work of community theaters everywhere.

Author Biography

Since 1981, Arthur Pittis has been a Waldorf teacher in both lower and high school. Trained as an actor, Arthur went on to obtain a certificate for Waldorf teacher from Mercy College in Detroit, and a Master of Drama Studies from Johns Hopkins University. Teacher, author, director, and dramaturge, Arthur Pittis brings his expertise to a crescendo in this book, a resource for teachers everywhere and a gift for students whose teachers take up the call to use theater well and often.