Classroom Opportunities

I believe teachers will find my audio book a useful resource for the classroom. Not only will it give students an insight into the positive and negative aspects of becoming an actor, but it can also be used as an assessment tool. Suggested activities include preparation of a written essay or oral presentation on the student's thoughts and feelings on a professional career on the stage or screen based on sections of the audio book listened to in class.

What is Important for the Drama Teacher

To Be or Not To Be is not just about would-be actors, but also about the role of the teacher in making great actors.

Drama and the skills that drama studies teach can help students to cope with many aspects of modern society. Fluent reading, memory skills, annunciation and diction, team spirit and last but not least confidence and self-esteem. The role of the drama teacher is then very important.

A good drama teacher has a love and passion for the art of acting themselves. Sensitivity can be very prominent in some students, particularly if they desire to become an actor but are nervous as to whether they can achieve any standard at all, so it is important to give them truthful but positive feedback and words of encouragement to improve by. We can always find students with natural ability, but should never ignore those who are willing to grow.

Remember that acting comes not from a text book but from the heart and soul. As a teacher of drama, could you take being critiqued as an actor? Allow students to be self-expressive. Never force a student to perform somthing they feel a failure with before they even begin, but by all means challenge those who you think are ready. Good teachers can get the best out of students with creative lesson plans - for new students choose practise pieces such as monologues, script studies, short plays and lots of acting games. When putting on school plays and productions always choose actos that suit the roles, but try to encourage equal opportunity for all students to strive towards.

About Being a Good Student

No matter what stage you are at - whether it's school drama, private classes, amateur societies or drama colleges - there are certain traits that will help you achieve your goals.

Listening skills are a must. Taking direction when needed - regardless of whether or not you agree - is part of being a professional actor. Never take a teacher's criticism tearfully. While they should be tactful, without criticism you will never advance to a higher level, so just strive to do better.

Drama should be fun - if you enjoy it and have a desire to become good at it, you have a possible future before you. Practise as much as possible outside of school or classes by getting involved in as much acting as possible - it may not all be good, but will improve your skills.

Study lines when asked to do so - at a student level it should be relatively easy. If you make it to the big time, you will have lots of lines to learn and sometimes in a very short period of time. Respect your fellow students when in class or performing - your attitude will count if you want to be a pro.

Remember, imagination can take you anywhere but now and again you may have to leave home to find it. Don't be afraid to follow the path, but be prepared to take a detour!