We had a celebration at the end of the term. Parents, friends and families attended our Showcase, where our Drama kids demonstrated what they get up to in the classes. The tables were decorated with glitter, tea lights and flowers. Teas and coffees and a table full of cakes welcomed everyone. The theatre lights shone colour pools on the floor, props were at hand and the kids had last minute practices in their groups. The audience arrived with party snacks and an air excitement.
The Showcase is to entertain and make sure that everyone enjoys the evening. The kids show off their skills and the “audience” are amazed, immensely proud and laugh out loud.
Each class had games to play, improvised a scenario which turned out to be hilarious and they sang a song they wanted to try out. All had prepared a few comic sketches which they created themselves through improvising conversations.
And then the nerves kicked in.
We were prepared for this so to keep them on track, one “character” had a list of prompts in case anyone should “wander” too far away from what they’d planned.
Just before they started, one class member said they would forget everything.
That was the fear.
And so inevitably they forgot what to say.
There was silence
Which grew longer right at the very beginning of the sketch. We stopped and gave them a chance to check the prompts, then started again.
Silence again but this time I suggested that they say whatever comes to mind. They struggled but got through it and included the jokes!
Have you ever dried up in a similar situation?
You feel panic. The words won’t come and the longer the silence, the worse it gets. Most people would simply apologise and run out of the room but this group carried on.
They faced their fear but did it anyway.
Because of that, next time should be easier. Every step of courage builds confidence.
