Presenter's Approach:
Carl and Patti's enthusiasm and enjoyment of theatre is contagious.  Their experience with children shows as they channel the energy and excitement of the kids into productive, learning experiences in theatre.  Utilizing games and wonderful plot outlines, Carl and Patti give children positive, first hand experiences in many aspects of theatre production, acting, rehearsing, stage managing, set design, script writing and selecting props, etc.  

If desired, this program may be run as a workshop of four 1 hour sessions.  After warming up with some theatre games, students are given a plot outline and will be encouraged to develop each character completely.  After developing each character's name, personality, personal traits and costumes, the class will write and improvise different scenes involving the newly developed characters.  They will discuss costuming, props and the use of stage area for effect and enhancement of character.  The program will culminate in the performance of the self-written play during the last session.  The goal of the program is to help students learn. 

Results:
Participants will:

• Be introduced to the many roles involved in theatre and enjoy participation in a small children's theatre production, supervised by adults but created entirely by children

• Learn how to understand a character's motivation and bring this knowledge to their future performances in school and community theater

• Appreciate the value of teamwork, communication and the challenge of working toward a common goal 

Price Range:
General Program:  $360
Multi-Session Workshop:  $1150
Plus travel expenses for locations outside of a 20 mile driving radius.

Logistical Factors:
Hosting organization must provide the following:

• a level, open stage area 

• ample room for participants

• access to a copy machine 

• electrical outlets

• water for the presenters

BACK TO TOP

About the Presenter:
"The First Act" Children's Theatre in Carbondale is directed by Carl Canedy and Patti Dunning.  In addition to their yearly theatrical productions, the group runs workshops and seminars designed to introduce children to the incredible world of the theatre arts.

Carl Canedy is Director of the Carbondale Area Elementary Drama Club, the first all student run elementary drama club in Northeast PA.  He also directs the Acting Company Playhouse Children's Theatre in Forest City and is an accomplished professional musician who has produced and performed on over thirty five albums.

Patti Dunning is the Assistant Director of both the Carbondale Area Elementary Drama Club and The Acting Company Playhouse Children's Theatre.  She is an advocate for children's theatre and has rallied to form a children's drama program at the Lakeland School District.  She's been a member and officer of the Lakeland Elementary PTA for many years.  Patti is also a support parent for the Pennsylvania Education Network, an advocacy group for special needs children.

What People Are Saying:
"They brought additional helpers to facilitate the activities; their organization is impeccable; the technology they incorporate is wonderful; their materials and activities are fun and exciting!"       - Margie Young, Wyoming County Cultural Center

BACK TO TOP

For more information or to request this program, contact Kim at:
Dynamic Demos, Speakers & Seminars
51 Comstock Rd Tunkhannock PA 18657
Phone:  (570) 241-6807    Email:  kim@dydemos.com
     

 BOOKS ABOUT THIS TOPIC:

BACK TO TOP