Tips 1 -7 of 15

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"Positive African American Plays For Children" Books 1,2,3
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TIP #1 Play Script Kit - Before the first meeting or day of rehearsal create a Play Script Kit.

The Play Script Kit contains the script (copied and stapled), the Personal Information Sheet (see tip #2), and the Character Outline (see tip #3).  It is recommended that you place all three of these items in folders that have pockets on the inside.  As the children receive their folder, have them put their names on the folder and script.  Stress the importance of being responsible and keeping up with their scripts.  Set a number limit on how many scripts can be replaced and abide by it.

TIP #2 Personal Information Sheet - Help the children complete the Personal Information Sheet (See page #109)

At the first meeting or rehearsal, have the children fill out the Personal Information Sheet.  This form contains the children’s name, telephone number, address, and a person to contact.  Store this form in a safe place and use it to notify parents of changes in rehearsal times, performances, or sharing important information  

TIP #3 Character Outline - Complete the Character Outline Form  with each actor (See page #107).

To help the children build their characters, have them fill out the Character Outline.  The outline gives the children the opportunity to give their ideas, thoughts, or opinions about the life and personality of the chosen character.  The children usually have a very good time creating information about their character.

TIP #4 Writing Supplies - Keep plenty of pencil and paper handy.

Pencil and paper will be needed during the production, so make sure you have ample supply for each rehearsal.  The children may need to note stage directions, minor changes to the script, or jot down lines they are having problems with.

TIP #5 Stage Space – Have plenty of space for rehearsals and a full production.

Though recommended, it is not necessary to have a stage.  Several plays within this book can be produced without a stage.  If you choose not to use a stage, use tape or props (see TIP #9) to mark any space that will be used for the stage. 

The space for the production should be large enough for the cast to make a large circle holding hands.  If the space is too small, the actor’s full movements will not be seen.  If your space is too big, the acoustics will create an unwanted echo when the actors say their lines.  Both cases can cause problems with your stage blocking (see TIP #7).

Keep in mind that your chosen space is usually the same place of the performance.  Make sure there is enough room to seat your audience.

Tip #6 Stage Areas - Explain the different areas of the stage to the children during the first rehearsal. 

The terms used for stage presence are upstage, downstage, and center stage.  Upstage is towards the back, farthest from the audience.  Downstage is to the front, closest to the audience.  Center stage is the middle of the stage.  If an actor stands center stage facing the audience, to the right of the actor is stage right, and to the left is stage left.  You should use every part of the stage.  These terms are used throughout the plays in the book.  Try to use these terms so everyone will know exactly where to go onstage. 

TIP #7 Blocking - Make sure the children know how and when to move while on stage. 

Stage blocking gives the actors direction on where to stand, enter, and exit during the play.  Every play in this book contains stage blocking which are in parenthesis before or after each line.  Make sure the children do not read or memorize the stage blocking instructions as part of their lines.  Keep in mind that important actions should happen downstage closer to the audience.  The children should always face the audience when saying their lines.

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