How to Start a Drama Club

By Sarah Brown

Do you enjoy acting and being apart of drama productions, but you just can’t find a good Christian drama group? Why not start your own?! It may take a lot of time and energy, but it is fun and rewarding! Here are a few tips to get you going:

1

The first thing you must be sure of is that you have input from reliable and experienced sources. Contact people who can help you with scripts, props, costumes, etc., if you need them. Keep in mind that parents (yours and those of your group) are your number one support and resource in every area. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and always be open to advice!

2

Recruiting people for your drama group and selecting a script go hand in hand. It is difficult to find a play simple enough for younger kids yet challenging enough for the older ones. I revised a Christmas play to include non-speaking parts for the smaller children as well as well-rounded speaking parts for the teenagers. However, for my next production, “Pilgrim’s Progress”, I had to set an age limit for the cast, knowing that it would be too difficult for younger kids. Another point to consider is your ability. Remember it is better to underestimate than over estimate yourself. How much can you handle? Last, choose carefully a script that will hold both the audience’s and the actors’ attention and a plot and dialogue that will be pleasing to God.

3

Organization is probably the most important key to a good production, aside from pure talent. Before you ever meet with your group, make a schedule of the dates and times for every rehearsal, dress rehearsal, scenery-building day (if you need it), and performance. If there is going to be any cost involved, for example, to make costumes or rent a theater, have an estimated cost per person and make sure the parents of the cast are willing to put forth the time and money it will take Put someone in charge of listing collecting, caring for, and returning all props. This takes a lot of pressure off of you as the director. Know your script and have a basic mental picture of how each character should be, but have room for creativity on the part of the actors. When holding auditions, look for each person’s ability to (1) articulate, (2) project, and (3) express the character he is reading. Write down each one’s name and list his ability level and the character(s) you think he could play. Be sure you know what he is comfortable with and if he has a specific part he is trying out for. Keep an accurate record of all staging and blocking directions so that you don’t contradict yourself from one rehearsal to another.

As you go from one production to the next, keep in mind that they are learning experiences for the future. Always remember to give God the glory for the talent and grace he has given. Lights, camera, Action!