At Explore It! we have a wealth of experience in the area of performing arts programming for children and have brought over 30 full musicals to the stage over the years. Both Liz and the Senior Musical Theatre team have trained with Broadway professionals in New York City and know what it takes to make a program successful.
The goal of all Explore It! performing arts programming is to expose students to the joy of drama, dance, music, song and musical theatre. It is important that the Instructor feel confidant in the areas they choose to work in with the group and that the students find the joy of learning, rehearsing and performing during every class.
Note that in all performing arts programs, the goal of performing for an audience is important. It should also be noted however, that it is rare that we’re able to invite parents in to see an end-of-term showcase. Please do not promise a live performance at the end of the term, but instead plan for a mini-show for other Explore It! Programs happening in the school at the same time or simply for each other in class.
The goal of all Explore It! performing arts programming is to expose students to the joy of drama, dance, music, song and musical theatre.
Instructors should get to know their students and use the lessons that are best suited to the energy and interests of the group.
If you have any concerns or questions about what quality means in this program, please discuss with your Senior Instructor or email Liz or Randy to confirm.
Drama Programs:
Drama programs can be exceptionally rewarding to instruct as it is magical to watch children learn, explore and gain confidence under your leadership. It is important to take the time to engage the group right from the start, finding out early in the program what most interests them, and gearing the program to their likes. Improv games are a wonderful way to finish a class as students generally love them and they allow the group to leave on a high note. If you should find in your planning that you need additional supplies — books, props, scripts, costume pieces etc. just let us know — we have a wealth of theatrical supplies and would love to support your program in any way we can.
Dance Programs:
Dance programs should be fun, energetic and engaging for both the participants and the Instructor each week. While it may seem easy, dance programs take a lot of skill and preparation to get right. Take the time to create an age appropriate play list and choreograph pre-set warm up combos that you can build on week to week to encourage participants to strengthen their skills and gain confidence. A portion of each class should be spent working on a longer combo (or several combos of varying styles) that can be polished and “perfected” by the end of the term.
Music Programs:
Music programs should be fun and engaging – as they are most often geared to our youngest participants. Lessons should involve many elements – from listening and dancing, to music creation and the intersection of music with other arts or mediums, to learning to rehearse and perform — and of course, time spent learning to love music in all its forms. When planning a music lesson, plan multiple activities each week to hold the attentions of young students – move from active elements to more quiet moments – and always be ready to “switch it up” to appeal to your audience. A great trick in music programs is to find out what the group loves (often times a game like “Freeze Dance” or a quiet activity like music-inspired colouring) and save that for the end of each class. Once the ‘lesson’ is complete and clean up is done, students can be rewarded with this favourite element – a sure way to make everyone happy every class.
Musical Theatre Programs:
Musical Theatre programs can be exceptionally rewarding as children quite naturally take to the joy of singing, dancing and performing. If you are booked to Lead or Support at Musical Theatre program, we ask that you first shadow a similar program where a more experienced Instructor is leading. We have found that certain techniques work best to keep participants engaged and that the best way to share our knowledge, tips and tricks is in person, during a rehearsal. Please check in with Liz about booking shadowing session(s) when you are confirmed to take on a Musical Theatre program.
Magical Magicians, Oz-Some Magic
Art in Action, Imagine That! Drama Club, Masterpiece Theatre, Pixie Players, Stage Theatrics
