How to Choose an Assembly Program, Pt 1

Ok, we've been talking about the important qualities one should look for in a school show. We thought of this list:

1. Something the students can't get in any other way. 

2. Professionalism. 

3. A wide range of subjects and styles.  

4. A program that reinforces and/or complements your school's curriculum. 

So let's talk about the first item. 

1. Something the students can't get any other way. 

We don't feel there's much use in booking a show that is similar to a lecture a teacher might give, nor does it make sense to book a show that feels like the students are watching a live documentary or video project. We're sure your school already has great teachers who create wonderful classroom presentations and we know you can buy DVD's or download excellent videos to help reinforce your curriculum. But if you're going to bring in a special program, it needs to be something that is unique. 

So what makes a school show unique?  

DIRECT PARTICIPATION

One of the main things that sets theatre apart from TV, film or even interactive technology is that the performers are in the same room as the audience and the performance is happening live. That means there is a direct relationship between the performer and the audience and it means that no two performances will ever be exactly the same. We think that live performance for students should highlight that aspect by having the audience be active participants (including some students participating ON STAGE) in the performance. It lets them know that this show is JUST FOR THEM and it creates a dialogue with them - both of which make the show more engaging and memorable. Not to mention fun. 

A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

A live presentation is going to be at its best when it has a singular personality and point of view. Of course, the content being presented must be educationally sound, but it needs to be more than a regurgitation of a couple of Wikipedia articles. We think you should pick a show that has a point of view, not just an interesting presentation of information. 

A STRONG COMBINATION

Good music can make a good show. Good performers can make an engaging show. Good technical elements (video, set, costumes, etc.) can make an interesting show. But the show you book should have a combination of most, if not all, of those elements.  The money allotted for shows or field trips is too precious to just settle for one thing. Even if a show is primarily about, for example, music, it should have more going for it than just good music: the performers should have personality; there should be some interesting visuals; it should have writing surrounding the music that does more than just introduce it. A worthy school show needs to have an effective combination of theatrical elements.  

We believe a successful performance for your students should be something that they could not get in any other way.  And we believe that direct participation, a strong personality and a balanced combination of theatrical elements can create a production that will supply that unique perspective for your students.

Next post we will look at #2 on our list of how to book a school show: professionalism.