Storytelling Theater

When it’s wet or snowy outside, it’s easy for cooped-up parents and kids to get on each other’s nerves. What parent hasn’t heard the cry of “We’re bored—there’s nothing to do!”

Luckily for you, I have a solution: storytelling theater. Next time kids (whether they’re all yours or some of them are just yours for the afternoon) threaten to drive you nuts, encourage them to put on an original play. Some kids will take to this idea right away and others may need a little convincing (bribing)—hot chocolate and cookies for all performers usually does the trick.

The goal is for the kids to create their own original story and then act it out in front of an audience. Even if this consists of you and the family dog, the kids won’t be fussy—especially if you up the dramatic ante by pulling out the video camera. (And if other kids are involved, their families will certainly love having a copy of the finished product—as will your own children.)

Start by encouraging the kids to come up with a story, including characters and plot. Younger kids will make the story up as they go along, but they should at least have a general idea of the story and who’s involved. If your kids need some storytelling tips, have them check out the TallTales’ Kids Only section.
One sure-fire way to get your kids enthused is to encourage them to make costumes and use props that relate to the story. Bring out old scarves, hats, shawls, and jewelry and dig up old Halloween wigs and costumes. Props can include anything from flashlights to brooms to stuffed animals—with a little thought, children will come up with all kinds of creative ideas. Your kids might also want to include music, singing, or sound effects in their play (either their own creations or a background CD). Once they get into it, the kids will amuse themselves for hours creating the perfect play. (And don’t be surprised if they want to perform their play again—or create spinoff stories involving the characters in their play.)

Creating an original play has three selling points: First and most importantly, it will keep your little gremlins entertained for a large chunk of the day. Second, it will save you from feeling guilty for plopping them in front of the TV, video game console, or computer. And finally, you’ll be able to sit back and enjoy a fun performance at the end of the day. (And if you make a video, this will be a family treasure for years to come.)

For kids who really get into theater, there are lots of good books available, such as Kids Take the Stage: Helping Young People Discover the Creative Outlet of Theater, by Lenka Peterson and Dan O’Connor (with a forward by actor Paul Newman), Back State Books, 2006.