Download Readers theatre

Readers
theatre
RT
Language Arts
Styles of Readers theatre
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Narration is the framework
Minimal stage sets
Simple costumes
Not fully memorized
Scripts are used during the performance
When to use RT
» Always popular in colleges and
universities
» Now seen as beneficial for developing
student interest in reading and fluency
» Usually the script is based on a familiar
book.
» RT is simple for the teacher to organize
Concepts and Elements
» A strong focus on the text
» “ a medium in which two or more oral
interpreters through their oral reading
cause an audience to experience
literature” (Coger and White)
» The readers create images in the minds of
the audience
» The audience is as involved in the
performance as the readers
Elements of RT
» The text /script is on stage with the
actors/readers
» The text is the focus
» Props are minimal or nonexistent
» Performers may create simple
costumes or wear black
» may use lighting
STAGED READING
REHEARSALS:
» At the first rehearsal, make sure each
reader has a script. Ask your readers to
write their character names and their real
names on the front of their scripts. Next,
ask cast members to highlight or
underline their own lines. Provide colorful
highlighters, pens, pencils, or crayons for
this job.
RT
» Once highlighting is done, seat readers in
a circle and ask them to read the script
aloud. Many Take Part! scripts feature
special sections where all readers read in
unison, together. (A choral reading
approach). Pay special attention to these
sections, rehearsing the readers until they
develop a feel for the proper rhythm and
flow of the words or phrases
RT
» From the very beginning, suggest
improvements to a readers
projection, posture, pronunciation,
intonation, facial expressions, etc. by
refering to the character rather than
the actual reader
RT
» As rehearsals progress, try to
practice in the actual room where
you will be giving your performance.
If this is impossible, mark off an area
which is similar to the stage or
performance space you will using
on performance day.
RT
UPSTAGE
STAGE RIGHT (Readers) STAGE LEFT
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DOWNSTAGE
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AUDIENCE
RT
» Rehearse entrances, exits, and any
stage movements until they run
smoothly and readers feel
comfortable with them
RT
» You will probably find that lack of vocal
projection will be your biggest rehearsal
problem. Encourage your readers to
project, shout, yell! If your readers speak
too quickly or too slowly, remind them to
practice at home, concentrate on the
specific problem, and go over their lines
so often that they become very familiar
with them. This type of familiarity usually
makes for a well-paced performance in
the end.
RT
» If costume pieces, props, sound
effects, or special signs have been
added to the presentation, have at
least two full dress rehearsals
(including all additions) just prior to
the performance date. Iron out any
extra problems these additions
cause during these rehearsals.
RT
» ASK CAST MEMBERS FOR THEIR
OPINIONS
AND CREATIVE SUGGESTIONS
RT
» READERS MAY ENTER FROM
ANYWHERE IN THE ROOM
RT
» GENERALLY, A STORYTELLER FOCUS IS
USED WHEN PRESENTING READERS
THEATRE
» "Strategies for Reading: Readers
Theatre in the Middle School" by Lois
Walker.