Step into Creativity
Explore drama, performance, and expression
Explore drama, performance, and expression
In 50 videos, Mike Rugnetta teaches you theater and drama! This course is based on an introductory college level course in Theater and explores the history, theory, and technology that contributes to the art form most like life. By the end of this course, you will be able to:
* Describe the leading theories of the origins of theater
* Understand how theater was produced and what it meant to audiences around the world
* Analyze the historical and cultural contexts that lead to the creation of different movements in theater history
* Argue for the importance of producing and understanding theater
By Mary Lou Belli and Dinah Lenney
Publisher: Watson-Guptill Publications
This book was selected because it gives middle school learners a practical introduction to acting, from building characters to preparing monologues. The writing is straightforward and never talks down to students. According to Back Stage West, the authors explain key Stanislavsky-based techniques while also including fun exercises and tips for young performers (Schiffman, 2006).
Reference:
Schiffman, J. (2006, October 12). Acting for young actors: The ultimate teen guide [Book review]. Back Stage West, 13(41), 10.
By Rena Cook
Publisher: Methuen Drama
This book was chosen because it focuses on one of the actor’s most important tools. The voice! With diagrams, exercises, and a companion DVD, it helps students practice breathing, articulation, and resonance. New England Theatre Journal noted that Cook “demystifies the speaking voice for the high-school drama student” and provides a clear, engaging outline of vocal progression (Bercovici, 2012).
Reference:
Bercovici, T. V. (2015). Voice and the young actor: A workbook and DVD [Review]. New England Theatre Journal, 23, 152–154.
This section was created to help students think critically about the videos and media they encounter on a daily basis.
With so much content coming from TikTok, YouTube, and streaming sites, it is important to ask:
Who made this?
Why did they make it?
Can I trust it?
By practicing media literacy, students can enjoy creative videos while also learning how to spot reliable information and avoid misinformation. This skill supports their growth as thoughtful artists and informed citizens.