Intro to Musical Theater

Contributing Educator: Brian Cooper

This unit includes seven core topics as an Introduction to Musical Theater course. The term topic is used intentionally, as something bigger than a single lesson, to acknowledge that theatre educators bring a wealth of experience, creativity, and teacher superhero powers to their work. Each topic here is a launchpad for you to revise, expand, or streamline to meet the needs of your students and program. Feel free to rearrange the order, add your own content, adjust the focus. Above all – we have fun, because theatre should be fun. Printable resources and activity pages are included to help guide the work and support student reflection.

This Introduction to Musical Theater unit emphasizes games and physical activities, partnered with group discussion, to teach core concepts and build a strong, flexible, trusting ensemble. For those of us who have worked in school for many years (over 20 here!), we know the traditional classroom model – teacher-centered, desk-bound, and content-heavy – often doesn’t reflect how students learn best. Keeping kids active, engaged and in collaboration is culturally responsive teaching. Dramallama believes learning should be an active, joyful, collaborative experience.

For each topic, a Lesson Planning Template is linked. This is for you to use when reviewing and reflecting on each topic. What was done in your previous class and where do you want to go next? Your lessons will flow best when you don’t feel tethered to a script. Bring your own magic and experiences – make each moment the right one for your class.

Lesson Plans Included: 7
Materials: Printable Resources and Activities are included to help guide your work and support student learning.
Grade Levels: Middle School, High School