Benefits of separate drama spaces
Some of the benefits of having dedicated spaces for drama include:
- more expansive drama is possible, as well as group work and the use of theatre technology (lights, sound, staging)
- students can make more noise and be more active without disturbing other classes.
- students and teachers can focus on the skills of drama as curriculum objectives in their own right, not just as tools to explore other studies
- students are better able to explore and develop drama conventions, with the option of more formal presentation.
Features of specialised drama spaces
If your school can develop a separate drama space, it should:
- be far enough away from other rooms to allow students to make loud noises
- be carpeted, comfortable, light and airy – with good ventilation and natural light
- have curtains that can be drawn to provide some level of blackout (and maybe privacy) and curtains or screens suitable for creating exits and entrances, etc
- have its own sound system with good speakers
- contain a few theatre lights (probably already erected for safety)
- contain a range of cubes, stools, cushions, movable small platforms, and maybe curtains
- have adjacent ample storage space (for curtains, screens, costumes, cloths, platforms, etc)
- be possible to use for dance and music (although dance at years 7–8 is best done on a wooden floor and music has equipment storage needs)
- be suitable for other uses, like small assemblies, visiting groups, etc, but security of equipment will be an issue.
Equipment
As students develop in drama (in their classroom or in a separate space), they will benefit from using the following equipment:
- musical instruments
- sound recording and editing equipment
- video recording and editing equipment
- other audiovisual equipment, like digital cameras, projection equipment, and data projectors
- computers (with internet access for research)
- theatrical lighting.
If a separate drama space is being developed, secure storage should be provided for some of this equipment and consideration given to how classes will access other equipment during drama sessions.
Remember:
- Don't expect students to create and present drama in a large hall with a cold bare floor.
- You will need a space (possibly a hall) for shared formal performances and visiting drama groups.
- Some of the advice offered for secondary schools can also apply to year 7–8. See the year 9–13 section pages on specialist drama rooms and self-contained performance spaces.