Ah, drama. Entertainment in the form of theatre, television and movies. But what about church? That's right, church....conveying God's powerful message through drama in the form of scenes and monologues (also known as skits, vignettes, sketches) - taking a script and acting it out. And why not? Jesus Himself was a storyteller. And isn't that what dramatic pieces are...storytelling?
Storytelling is a creative way where a person (performer) uses his/her voice, body and spirit to convey a message they want others to hear. This is what makes drama so compelling - you can reach even the most stubborn-hearted, allowing them to ponder the point you're trying to get across without sounding "preachy". Drama is a natural part of who we are. We are all participants one way or the other.
"OK", you say with enthusiasm and despair, "I love drama, but I can't put on a show. I'm not an actor or a director." Have no fear. It's not a problem. In most cases, no ones asking you to put on a whole show, usually just a simple short scene (which can usually range anywhere from 2 minutes on up). Don't despair, below is a simple list of suggestions.
For the ACTOR:
1. Relaxing is the most important factor (yes, I know, easier said than done). Tips: Deep breathing helps tremendously. For some reason a lot of us hold back on this when faced with fear.Stretching loosens and relaxes the muscles. Your face and body are the tools with which the message is being conveyed through.Warm up your voice like a singer - hum, sing gentle "do, re, mi, fa, so ,la, ti", get those vocal cords in motion.
2. It's not about the individual words, it's about the overall message.If you feel you sound like a robot, do an exercise where you use your own words to relay the message/intention of the scene. In most cases, this will be a natural for you. Now go back to the script and try saying the words as if they're your own. Repeat the exercise if you find you're having trouble. Like anything else it takes practice.
3. Pray. Remember all things are possible with God.
4. Have fun and don't worry about making mistakes while you're up there performing. Keep going if you stumble - most people wont even notice (believe me, I've had my share of mishaps).5. Most importantly, you are doing this for God, to glorify Him. You are the vessel.
For DIRECTORS:
1. Your "vision" is important in conveying the overall message, but remember to be a team leader by listening to possible suggestions from your actors. You never know where a great idea will come from.
2. Be encouraging to your actors. You want to get the most effective and real performance out of them.
3. Run your actors through acting exercises.
4. Voice what you want to get out of the scene. This allows the actors to understand what's most important in the overall look and feel of the script.
5. Before your first rehearsal, read and review the script and jot down any notes on blocking ideas (movement in the scene), word emphasis, intentions, etc. This is a guideline for you, however, as you go about your rehearsal I'm sure things will change a bit and new ideas will pop into your head.
6. Pray. God is on your side and this is being done for Him.
*I would suggest that those wanting more information on acting exercises/procedures and vocal warm-ups to click here and search.However, I have found a couple of interesting looking sites that may be helpful: Acting Exercises/Procedures Click here ; Vocal Warm-ups Click here
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