Author Archives: beat by beat

How to Write a Monologue – Free Lesson Plan from “Teaching Playwriting”

The following lesson plan is an abridged excerpt from the new book Teaching Playwriting: The Essential Handbook, [...]

Drama Game: Magical Connection

Type: Focus, Observation/Communication Purpose: This game involves the instructor and an “assistant” who together have a secret [...]

Drama Game: Superfans

Type: Improv, Creativity Purpose: A simple improv game that helps create a positive creative environment. Procedure: 1. Have [...]

Drama Game: Ninja Star, Baby Kitten, Angry Chihuahua

Type: Warm-Up Purpose: A fun short warm-up to loosen kids up and have them practice pantomime.  Procedure: [...]

1 Comment

Drama Game: Three Ball Toss (Name Game)

Type: Focus, Ensemble Building Purpose: A great way to work on focus and collaboration through a repetitive [...]

3 Comments

Drama Game: Three Words

Type: Improv Purpose: A fun beginner improv activity that involves every player at the same time. Procedure: 1. [...]

1 Comment

Theatre Rehearsal Tip: Thought Bubble Tableau

Type: Rehearsal Tip Purpose: When rehearsing a play or musical, at some point you’ll reach a scene [...]

Drama Game: Paper Affirmation

Type: Ensemble Building Purpose: A great activity to introduce if you feel like there are some issues with the group [...]

1 Comment

Drama Game: Group Laugh (Without Laughing)

Type: Focus, Warm-Up Purpose: A simple activity to work on group focus. Procedure: 1. Create a sitting [...]

Drama Game: Comic Strip

Type: Ensemble Building, Creativity Preparation: Cut out the individual frames of comic strips and mix them in [...]