Step+1+Reader's+Theater

=**__What Is Reader's Theater?__**=

**1. What is Reader's Theater?** Reader's theater is often defined by what it is not -- no memorizing, no props, no costumes, no sets. Like storytelling, **** reader's theater can create images by suggestion that could never by realistically portrayed on stage. Space and time can be shrunk or stretched, fantastic worlds can be created, marvelous journeys can be enacted. ****Almost any story can be scripted for reader's theater, but some are easier and work better than others. In general, look for stories that are simple and lively, with lots of dialog or action, and with not too many scenes or characters.** ** The above is excerpted from "Readers Theatre in Elementary Classroom" and "Strategies for Reading: Readers Theatre in the Middle School" by Lois Walker. **
 * 2. Student Objectives As Actors or Actresses:**


 * Characterization and Acting:** The actor should have a full understanding of the scene and her role in it. This should be apparent in vocal inflection, facial expressions, and body position.


 * Eye Contact:** The audience should always be able to see the actor’s eyes. Focus should be on a fixed point above the audience. When characters speak to each other, the actors look at each other but make sure the audience can still see their faces.


 * Projection and Diction:** The student should be able to be heard clearly from the back of the classroom. __Every__ student is capable of this but they may need to practice, as with any skill.


 * Pace:** While an actor is performing, the pace should be comfortable but never too fast. Actors need to anticipate their cues and come in immediately with no pauses.


 * Ensemble:** All actors in a scene should be working together to create their performance. There should never be a feeling of the actor grandstanding or performing in his own little world.


 * Poise and Focus:** The actor must stay "in character" at all times. There should be no fidgeting or looking around. The cardinal sin of any class play is GIGGLING. It is important that actors understand the difference between the humor of their characterization causing the audience to laugh and they themselves laughing while performing.


 * 3. Read some examples of Reader Theater Plays:**


 * The Legend of Slappy Hooper
 * The Legend of Lightening Larry
 * The BFG
 * [|Wiley and the Hairy Man]