School Programs

Two types of services are available to schools and youth programs. Darren’s single-day, in-school presentations focus on the many people and talents required to produce live theater and are an excellent introduction to drama. Longer programs—either a few days, weeks or a full school year—can also be discussed, developed and led by Darren.

Single-day Presentations

In a 30-120 minute presentation, What (and Who) Is Theater?, Darren introduces preschool or elementary school groups to the many jobs that are involved in putting on a live theatrical performance. Using a story or fairy tale, and simple props and costumes, children will look beyond the story and actors to be introduced to the concept of directors and designers, ticket takers and technicians, and press agents and producers. All topics will be presented at age appropriate levels, of course.

Children will be chosen to actively participate in the presentation, and (in presentations 60 minutes and longer) will actually perform a 10 – 15 minute play! This program is ideal for career days for young students, or as an introduction to theater or drama. Like theater itself, it teaches both the art of performance, and the lessons of teamwork and collaboration that it takes to put a show on stage.

Space requirements are a minimum of 8’ x 12’ open space. Sound amplification is preferred for large groups. Fees are negotiable and depend on length of the program.

Longer Presentations and Programs

Darren is available, at no cost, to speak to parent and teacher groups about developing drama programs for schools or summer camps, and can also advise on staffing and producing school theatrical productions at any level. Fees to develop or lead such programs are negotiable.