People have a natural tendency to role-play: a need to act out being different characters, which usually makes its appearance in early childhood with pretend tears, fake anger or by imitating the facial expressions and gestures of grown-ups. In this way, children have great fun while, at the same time, they learn to express themselves. They begin to understand that you can pretend something and, with humour and distancing, learn not to be too serious about it. Staging amateur children shows – apart from delivering the text – helps the performers overcome their shyness and fear of public speaking.
By incorporating theatre shows into learning English, we create scenarios based on the structures and vocabulary introduced during class. Stories are simple and amusing, filled with emotion, and are written with younger children in mind, as they like to get involved in such projects. Older students act out situational skits and dramas, they record videos and short clips.
Every show is a musical production, and its final shape depends on the work of the whole team. Such a method teaches cooperation and opens up students to new possibilities. It helps to overcome shyness and lack of confidence for the young actors.
The show is not only about the interpretation of the text but also involves the students in the preparation of set design, wardrobe and props. Teachers, students and parents working together as a team are responsible for the final outcome every year. That is why our theatre creates a bond among all those involved and provides a sense of community which transcends school walls.