Planning a School Musical
(1) PLAN WELL IN ADVANCE
Explore the wonderful world of the School Musical and pick out one that you’re passionate about. If you’ve written it yourself (and you know your kids well), that’s even better. Your enthusiasm will then rub off on the stars of the show. Go with your gut feeling and trust your instincts. If you’re buying a musical off the shelf or online, make sure all royalties or fees are paid upfront! Lastly, plan each rehearsal thoroughly but in a way that works for you.
(2) DELEGATE
When Planning a School Musical spread the workload (and there are masses) by building a team around you. Spread the word, too, and suddenly you will find people are queuing up to help you out, especially if you’ve managed to sow some positive seeds in the air. Reach out to parents in particular – there are always specialists and enthusiasts amongst them, lurking in the shadows, just waiting to release their talents! This may be with costumes, make-up or building a set. Always say “yes” when someone offers to help.
(3) HAVE FAITH IN YOUR PUPILS
Have high expectations of your School Musical but don’t expect everything to be perfect. If you believe in your pupils, the chances are, they will believe in themselves too. You will then be able to take them out of their comfort zone and help them soar to even greater heights. Just think – this one musical could make someone’s life! The keyword here is encouragement.
(4) BE INCLUSIVE, NOT EXCLUSIVE
Don’t just give all the biggest and best roles to the best actors or those you think are the best actors. The same goes for singers. See all pupils as potential actors and singers, some of whom have already started to blossom; others need that extra support to realise their dreams. I have always found it incredibly rewarding when a child who I originally thought had a bit of a dodgy voice, really gets to grips with their part, and then, after the show, goes on to take singing lessons. Also, try to challenge stereotypes rather than reinforce them.
(5) THERE’S NO SUCH THING AS A SMALL PART
When Planning a School Musical a small part for one pupil may be just what they need to help them up the ladder of musical theatre. Small roles can also be expanded to include some moving of props or even writing of useful notes during or after rehearsals to hand to the director for consideration. Many of my pupils have passed on valuable ideas; these seeds have then germinated into something quite wonderful.
(6) ENJOY YOURSELF
Because if you’re not, the kids won’t be! Likewise, if you’re having the time of your life (most of the time, at least) then your kids will, too.
(7) BELIEVE IN GOOD LUCK
Call it luck, call it Karma, call it miracles, you’ve got to believe in it because at the end of the day when all said and done, and the clichés have dried up…the School Musical show must go on!
