Inspired by their exploration of ancient civilizations – China, Egypt, India, and Mesopotamia – in Humanities this fall, Class 5 students wrote and performed original plays based on Mesopotamian legends.
The students began by brainstorming and writing scripts in small groups. With guidance from Humanities teachers Margaret George and Jenet Dibble, and inspiration from books pulled by Middle School Librarian Natasha Goldberg, the students discovered the importance of story arc and created four short plays based on the Mesopotamian myths of the Great Flood, Gilgamesh the King, and the goddess Ishtar.
By November, after weeks of research and editing, the students had finished their scripts and began working with drama teacher Lindsay Quinn to bring them to life on the stage. “We started blocking and viewing the stories through a drama lens,” the teacher explained.
Not only did the students write the plays, but they were also asked to cast themselves, working together within their groups to decide where they each fit best. “The students had to take ownership and work through conflicts. Afterwards, they were so proud because they did it all themselves,” Ms. Quinn shared.
Excitement and enthusiasm were palpable during one of the final rehearsals last month in the Black Box Theatre, which was transformed into a Mesopotamian world. Each ensemble ran through their scenes, with Ms. Quinn close at hand, reminding them when to emphasize their words and slow down their pacing. The young actors perfected their stage positioning – “Make sure you don’t block the other characters from the audience’s view” – got comfortable with their props, and mastered their timing and entrances.
“Walk calmly and quietly backstage so you don’t disturb the curtains,” Ms. Quinn urged as students moved between scenes. “And keep the whispering to a minimum.”
They also spent time discussing the obstacles they might face during the live performances… for example, what they should do if an actor (either themselves or another castmate) forgets a line.
“Try to cover it up,” one student suggested. “If you can remember part of the line, just rephrase it,” added her friend. “The audience most likely won’t be able to tell.” “Correct!” Ms. Quinn replied. “You all know these story lines. Just stick to the story and you’ll be okay.”
Before they wrapped for the day, Ms. Quinn asked the cast to check their scripts over the weekend, ensuring the lines stay fresh in their minds. Just one week later, these burgeoning playwrights would take to the stage, receiving stellar reviews from their parents and classmates, and fantastic experience in the world of theater.
Browse photos from a rehearsal below: