Fourteenth Class - Wednesday, December 15, 2010

JK's
SK's
Grades 1 & 2
Grades 3 & 4
Grades 5, 6, & 7
All classes are nervously and tirelessly preparing for the St. Jude's Academy Christmas Concert!
We are preparing to give you an entertaining and moving production - whether it will move to laughter, tears, or just fill you with warmth remains to be seen.

Thirteenth Class - Wednesday, December 8th, 2010

We are looking for a small Christmas tree, about 3ft tall. If anyone would be willing to lend it to us, that would be wonderful, and very much appreciated. You may then pick it up after the Christmas production, on Thursday evening.


With extra rehearsals before the Christmas Concert, days are becoming a bit of  a blur.
We are all working on what hopefully will end up as a smoothly running, delightful, heart-warming Christmas production, but PARENTS, your assistance is crucial. Here's what we need, want, and ask you for ever so sweetly:  

JK's

- summer clothing for all the children, with sandals or shoes that are quiet and won't fall off when walking or dancing
- a blue or white plain dress for Anastasia to change into, but also for her to wear something for summer first
- straw hat and sunglasses for Krythia
- a white dress for Emilia M.to change into, but allso for her to wear something for summer first
Parents, once the JK's have finished performing, one parent of each JK child will be asked to come to the JK classroom to pick up their child. This must be donne after the children have had the opportunity to change out of their costumes. This moment will be announced on stage. Your children will be on stage twice. Afterwards they will need time to change. Then we will let you know when you can pick them up. You are invited to continue watching the production together with your now "seasoned performer".

SK's

- a red top and bottom for David, as well as black boots to hold; if the red bottom is unavailable, black is okay
- all the children are to come wearing something festive; red, green, and white colours are encouraged

Grade 1's and 2's

- pajamas for all children except Abel
- reindeer antlers are required for everyone except Abel and Klara; 74 cents at Party Packagers
- Christmas stockings
- a small wrapped empty box would also be very much appreciated
Thank you to Mrs. T, and Mrs. N, and Mrs. A for your assistance
To Mrs. O - my hearfelt apologies, but your child's reindeer antlers were stretched and broke. We have spoken to all the children about behaving appropriately and respecting their own things, and especially those of others. We will try to ensure that you will all have your loaned items returned to you in the condition in which they arrived.

Grade 3's and 4's

- Peyton, Frederick, KingsLi, Nathanael, and Tito, are to be dressed as men
- Poorvi is to be dressed as a Mother
- Alyssa is to be dressed as an old lady
- Jude is to be dressed as an old man
- Gabe, Rory, Nathan, and Daniel M. are to be dressed as boys (Rory may need to come dressed as a man - this will be decided at the last minute, as he is an understudy)
- Charlotte is to be dressed as a girl and has agreed to loan us one package of silly bands
- Sara will need a white dress
- Daniel L. and Alberto should be dressed in white (white gowns, white anything)

Grade 5, 6, and 7's

- please have the children dress festively in a clean and polished image

Boys and Girls - I know that you are slightly confused by the last minute changes. Please bear with us teachers, as we are coordinating the entire school. You are now expected to follow along, and write down any changes as they come about. We will be having more rehearsals, and I am confidant that all of you will be able to figure everything out by Monday afternoon.  I will provide you with the final script on Monday.

Best Regards,
Mrs. Deras

Twelfth Class - Wednesday, December 1, 2010

JK's
SK's
Grade's 1 and 2
Grade's 3 and 4
Grade's 5,6, and 7

All classed have been cancelled due to rehearsals, more rehearsals, and dress rehearsals. Parents are asked to check last week's blog for Christmas concert instructions. Thank you.

TSoRaJ Cast Members
One more sleep before curtain call! Break a leg everybody!

Eleventh Class - Wednesday, November 24th, 2010

JK's
We are intensively rehearsing for our Christmas concert.
Anastasia needs either a blue or white dress.
Emilia M. needs a white dress.
Everyone including the two girls above must come to the concert dressed in summer clothes. Tights worn under shorts are fine.
Krythia is asked to bring in a straw hat and sunglasses.
Everyone is asked to bring in a wrapped empty box.

SK's
We are intensively rehearsing for our Christmas concert.
David needs a red shirt and red or black pants. If he could wear shoes but bring in black boots, that would be appreciated.
Everyone is asked to bring in a wrapped empty box.
Thank you Mrs. S.L. for volunteering to make stage cookies.

Grade 1's and 2's
We are intensively rehearsing for our Chirstams concert.
Just a reminder that the children will be wearing pajamas and need to bring in reindeer headbands.
Everyone is asked to bring in a wrapped empty box.

Grade 3's and 4's
The boys and girls listened to the Christmas story that will be adapted to suit our stage.
They will begin studying it very soon. Lines need to be memorized.
Everyone is encouraged to bring in an empty wrapped box.

Grade 5,6, and 7's
This group is being Seussified.
Everyone is welcome to attend the Seussification of Romeo and Juliet.
All efforts to bring in props and costumes are very much appreciated.

TSoRaJ CAST MEMBERS
Study, memorize, work together, follow instructions, remember cues.

Tenth Class - Wednesday, November 17, 2010

JK's
The children are really beginning to understand that we are going to be performing for parents and friends on stage. There are several surprises in store. We still need to work on our positions for our production pieces, but the singing is coming along.

Parents - please remember to dress your children in something for summer.
The following will need additional props:
Anastasia - will need a small swaddled doll (male looking) and please dress in blue
Krythia - will need a straw hat and sunglasses

SK's
We are practising and rehearsing for our Christmas concert. We managed to get up on stage again and sing with actions.

Parents - please wrap a small empty box and bring it to school. It is needed for the concert. Thank you to the parent who has already done this.

Thank you to our parent volunteer S.L.

Grades 1 and 2
We were up on stage singing and reciting. The size of the auditorium is overwhelming us a little. We need to focus on speaking loudly, clearly, and slowly, taking breaths.

Parents please go over the Christmas carol and the parts of the poem your children need to memorize.


Reindeer antlers are on sale at Party Packagers for $0.74 - please acquire a pair for your child.


The following children DO NOT NEED ANTLERS:
Abel - a Santa Claus outfit will be needed. Please check with Mrs. Nelson or me if you are having trouble finding a costume.
Klara - mouse ears and a tail will be required

Grades 3 and 4
We practised and performed our short production for Mrs. Haag. It was tough to do as we are still slightly overwhelmed by the stage. We learned about the importance of taking our cue without prompting, standing still, speaking loudly, projecting our voices, and learning our lines and what they are to convey.

Tests will be returned shortly.
Next class we will begin working on our Christmas production. We have a short time in which to learn more lines and find our positions. No time to rest!

Grades 5, 6, and 7
We practised the play, discussed costumes, and promised to memorize our lines for next Wednesday. Let's hope!

Thank you to Mrs. K for your help with line reading.

TSofRandJ Cast Members
I am getting worried. We are only just starting to know where to go - please pay more attention to your cues. I will not be directing when you are performing. You have just over a week left to get this right.
Costumes will be discussed below the blog posting, below the props.
Unfortunately our Friday extra rehearsal was cancelled.
The dance has been completed and we must now make sure the Grade 4's will learn it quickly.
There will be a special meeting of Ninjas next Wednesday during class.
Ninjas you are: Paul, Adil, Rory, and Jude, who is in charge. Your costume will be to dress in black - forget the jeans (unless they're black) and forget the coloured T-shirts. All black please! If you have a cap, baseball or other, please bring that to next class.

See below this blog for props and costumes!

Best Regards,
Mrs. Deras

Ninth Class - Wednesday, November 10th, 2010

JKs
We are moving along with our Christmas song and dance. Finally, the boys and girls were able to get to their spots ON CUE! It was wonderful to see the songs coming together. Our singing is also improving. There will be extra practise when ever we can squeeze it in - it helped us tremendously this week.

There are some strong singers, and our Christmas Carol sounds better and better. Please remember JK's, that when you sing, you use your musical voice and do not yell - that will only hurt your throats. So, let's keep it QUIET when we can, to conserve our voices for singing.

SKs
Today we were able to practise four verses of our Christmas song.

We had access to the stage today, and finally the SK's were able to practise assembling on it. It was a very scary experience for some. The more exposure we get to the stage before the Christmas production, the better we will perform!

We are trying very hard to line up so that we may look good on stage. Some stage directions have been given - no talking, no fidgeting, hands must be OUT of our pockets and by our sides, no leaning or stepping back, and no leaning on anyone else.

Letters have gone home with the words to our special song. Practising at home is strongly encouraged.  PARENTS - if you would like your child to hear the song, please go to http://www.songdrops.com/ and click on the song title that was sent home with your child. (It appears in the middle of the left hand column - blue letters.) We are trying to keep this a surprise for the rest of the school and other parents. Shhh!

A huge thank you to our parent volunteer!!! Three cheers for S.L. It was wonderful to have you there and we hope you come back often.

Grades 1 and 2
Today we focused on our Christmas poem. Things are really coming together as the students are very eager to present well. We are also reinforcing our positions on stage so that we can give an exciting presentation rather than a dry delivery. Next week every student will bring home their one or two verses to learn by heart. Parents please help your children with the difficult words and encourage them to share with you the coaching they recieved on their presentation.

We will also need reindeer antlers/hairbands for everyone except Santa and the mouse. Please check the dollar stores for this item.

Last week the words to their Christmas carol were sent home. Latin pronunciation is extremely phonetic. Each letter is pronounced distinctly and all vowels are short. The only exception for the purposes of this carol are the vowels AE together. They make a sound that is similar to a LONG i, or the English sound "aye". The "g's" are either soft or hard as in English. "Regem" = hard g. "Angelorum" = soft g. And it is very important to note that the "i" is pronounced like "ee" not as a SHORT "i".

Grades 3 and 4
The boys and girls wrote their make-up tests for our study of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. I think that the studying, practise play, the trip to the theatre, and taking up our answers last week in class, all helped everyone to better remember what is involved in this tragic love story. Tests will be returned on Friday.

We were also able to do a dry run of our mini-production of Romeo and Juliet. We have some students who have memorized their lines and are now able to add some emotion and action. Others - please read over your sheets and learn what you are to say and when. The 10 minute production is next week towards the end of class. You may memorize but that is not essential. It is more important to be able to say or read your lines with the appropriate expression discussed in class.

You may bring a costume if you wish, but they are NOT necessary. You are to wear you full uniforms to school.

GRADE 4's only - also read the blog information in PINK below. The information above is for your class WITH the grade three's. The information below is for the big PLAY - The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet. Don't get things mixed up please. You are in both!

Grades 5,6, and 7
In light of the fact that this week we will mark Remembrance Day, we took a little break from blocking our production and focused on the words and emotions associated with poems. We discussed "In Flanders Fields" as well as "Remember Remember the Fifth of November".

Students learned about the poppy and how it came to grow in Flanders fields. Have then tell you how the germination of poppy seeds was enabled by the bombings.  They learned the meaning behind the words of the poem written by John McCrae. The also learned that poems were one method used to communicate facts and emotions during times when there were few electronic gadgets connected to satellites providing instant information.

We also looked at the way in which punctuation within a poem, shows us when to take a pause and how long to make that pause. Our delivery of poetry or our portrayal of character will vary from person to person. The more we know about our subject or our character, the better we can make our delivery.

TSofR&J - Cast Members
WE HAD ACCESS TO THE STAGE!!! This was in fact a magnanimous moment as we were able to see how we will be positioned for our difficult dance number. Some were overwhelmed by the height and depth of the stage while others thought it an "opportunity to run from UR to DL". Let's stick to where we are supposed to be positioned next time, shall we?

Remember, sometimes it may feel boring to you to just stand and do silent actions; but this way you add to the scenery and make the production lively. Even though you are not speaking, the audience will still be watching YOU!

* CONTINUE MEMORIZING LINES.
* YOU MUST ALL SLOW DOWN AND INCREASE YOUR VOLUME.
* DON'T EAT YOUR WORDS.
* BE CLEAR. BE FLUID. BE FLUENT.
* AND REMEMBER YOUR BLOCKING.

Best Regards,
Mrs. Deras

Eighth Class - Wednesday, November 3, 2010

JKs
We are trying to learn our positions for the Christmas performance. Certain parts and props have been assigned. The Christmas carol is still in need of work and we will be practising more in our regular class as well as drama class.

SKs
The senior kindergarten class reviewed the chorus, first and second verse of their Christmas song. We then practised going on stage and coming off stage. It is important to remind the children that they cannot stand where they choose out of concerns for their safety, and because they will not be seen if they choose to hide behind their friends.

Grades 1 and 2
We continued with our Christmas carol and our presentation. The children will be receiving the words to their carol to practise at home.

Grades 3 and 4
Today we discussed the required answers to the test for Romeo and Juliet that was written two weeks ago. It is marked and will be returned shortly. Please review your answers, think about the proper answers discussed in class, read your handouts, study your short play, and prepare for the make-up test next week.

Grades, 5,6, and 7
We are using the time for this class to rehearse for the play. We are oh so close to finishing blocking. It is important that you remember where you stand and when to come in. Remember: there will be no one to tell you what to do or where to go on the night of the performance. You must learn and memorize your part; when to say your part; where to stand; how to move; how to speak; where to add emotion; how to emphasize the words; when and how to dance......etc. This involves paying attention in class.

TSofR&J - Cast Members
We are almost finished blocking. Please check the bottom of this blog for required props. Please memorize your lines. You must first learn HOW TO SAY THEM PROPERLY WHILE EMPHASIZING THE CORRECT WORDS - if you need it, ask for help. To truly learn your lines, you need to practise while hearing someone say the other words. Ask your parents, family, or friends for help - PLEASE.
Thank you so much to our parent volunteer for your time and for your assistance in helping us to learn our lines.

Seventh Class - Wednesday, October 27th, 2010

On Wednesday, October 27th, the grades 3,4,5,6, and 7 attended a field trip to see Romeo and Juliet by the group Shakespeare in Action. The classes truly enjoyed the play, and did ask very many questions during the Q&A session. Everyone was VERY well behaved. I believe our group had the youngest audience. We discussed the play afterwards during our rehearsal and many admitted they were moved to tears during some parts. The actors were all professionals and that was truly evident as the St. Jude's audience was swept away, finding the performances very believable. Well done St. Jude's; we're very proud of you.

JK
There was no drama class today due to the field trip for the middle and upper schools, but the children did practise their song with Mme. Stella.

Costume alert for the Christmas production: Please have the children dressed as for the summer: summer dresses, shorts, T-shirts, capris, sunglasses, sandals, etc. They may change at school if they arrive early enough, or they may have something warmer on underneath. For instance: a turtle neck and tights, with a sundress over top. This will only be required on the night of the performance and NOT for class.

We are also looking for a big straw hat to borrow.

Parents and Guardians: If you would like to volunteer your time on Wednesdays at 11:30 for half an hour, we would be delighted to have you.

SK
There was no drama class today due to the field trip for the middle and upper schools, but the children did practise their song with Mrs. Mischuk.

Costume alert for the Christmas production: Please start thinking about a Christmasy outfit for your child for the Christmas concert. Nothing too fancy, just warm and snuggly, and perhaps with some red and/or green.

We are also looking for ONE Santa hat, and one child, a boy will need to wear all red with a black belt and black boots. More on that later, but if you have something like that, we may ask you to borrow it later. We would like this to be a surprise.

Also: if every child could bring in one, small, wrapped, EMPTY box in Christmas type wrapping paper, that would help the production immensely. We also need four Christmas stockings - larger, but looking very much like an ordinary SOCK, with colour.

All of this will be required ONE WEEK BEFORE the production, and your support in this matter will be more than appreciated.

Parents and Guardians: If you would like to volunteer your time on Wednesdays at 11:30 for half an hour, we would be delighted to have you.

GRADES 1 & 2
The grade ones and twos had their regular class and things are coming along well  for our Christmas production. The children will soon be bringing home their required items for memorizing.

We will be needing ONE SANTA OUTFIT. If someone has one and would be willing to share, it would be very much appreciated. Please let me know.

All the children will need to wear pajamas and robes for their production, except for Santa and the mouse.

We are also looking for the following props: plastic purple fruit; a small sleigh WITH reindeer; Christmas stockings; a small to medium sized Christmas tree; and eight antler headbands.

GRADES 3 & 4
To both grades - you are studying Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare in your combined class. It is a shortened version and will only be performed for Mrs. Haag and Mr. Sawatsky.

Grade 4's - you are ALSO studying and putting on the production of The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet by Peter Bloedel. This one MUST BE MEMORIZED, it will have full costumes and props! You now have extra rehearsals on Fridays from 2 pm to 3 pm. Come prepared. Always read the blog in PINK at the bottom of this posting, as it applies to you too.

To both grades - The tests are marked and will be returned this week. Please have them signed. A make-up test will be given on Wedesday, November 10th.

To both grades - We will finish the study of the play Romeo and Juliet this coming week and will perform it one week after our make-up test. Please know what you are reading - you will not have to memorize but may do so if you wish. You may also wear any type of costume you feel is appropriate. It is NOT a modern day version and you do not have to have a costume if you don't want to.

GRADE 5,6, & 7
We will finish blocking after this upcoming class. You will start learning your dance in Ms. Land's gym class. Please start memorizing and learn your blocking. If you have to write it down on your script then please do so. We have now added extra rehearsals on Fridays from 2 pm to 3 pm.

CAST MEMBERS (Grade 4, 5, 6, & 7)
You must memorize your lines and your blocking. Remember, when you perform, it is up to you to know where to go and what to do - even if that means standing still backstage and listening for your cue, or if that means helping a fellow cast member with a costume change. Your performance in this play will be indicative of your role in the Spring Production of Julius Caesar.

Please check the bottom of this blog for a list of required PROPS. You must first ask your parents' or guardians' permission before you bring something to school. We will need to start using props at every rehearsal. The director decides which prop will be used, so please don't be saddened if I send you back home with your prop. I will be VERY pleased that you tried so hard. It will count.

I will also start sending you home with a list of your costume outline. If you don't have something, please tell me AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, so that I can ask the rest of the group if they have whatever you need, and would be willing to lend it to you.

Whatever you bring in, you must have a) parental permission and b) it labelled.

Best Regards,
Mrs. Deras

Sixth Class - Wednesday, October 20, 2010

JK
Heard you had a great time picking apples at Chudleigh's!!

Parents, if you would like to volunteer on Wednesdays at 1:00 for half an hour, that would be wonderful.

SK
Heard you had a great time picking apples at Chudleigh's!!

Parents, if you would like to volunteer on Wendnesday at 11:30 for half an hour, that would be wonderful.

Grades 1 and 2
We continued practising our Christmas carol and our special poem. Things are moving along well.

Parents, I am thinking that pajamas and robes will be the costume for this group, except for one who will need a Santa Claus outfit, and one mouse. I'll keep you posted.

Grades 3 and 4
Today the children had their drama TEST!!! It was quite dramatic!!! Some had so much to say, and knew what to do. Others - well it seems you must remember to read and study your drama notes, as well as pay more attention in class. Graded tests will be going home next class.

NEXT WEEK: Field trip to see Romeo and Juliet, by Shakespeare inAction. Please make sure your forms and payment have been handed in.

Grades 5, 6, and 7
We have started blocking for the play. Let me remind this group of the rules:
1. We DO NOT TALK except to say our lines.
2. We pay attention all the time and follow along in our scripts. Just because we are not speaking doesn't mean we won't be on stage doing some actions, or behind the scenes helping to make the production work.
3. We bring our scripts and a pencil to every class. You may also bring water bottles.

It is also important to start memorizing our lines!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Next week we have a field trip. This leaves you with two weeks in which to memorize your lines.

We are going to see a performance for Romeo and Juliet, by the group Shakespeare in Action. Please make sure your permission forms and payment have been handed in.

TSOR&J Cast Members
We have finally started blocking (moving to where we are supposed to go). Some know their parts very well and your efforts truly shine. Others - LEARN YOUR LINES!!!!

We will now have more rehearsals during school. I will let you and your parents know ahead of time whether there will be any need for after school rehearsals.
A letter will be going home shortly to parents indicating that students will need to be present in the evening for the performances. Your child must be available on those two evenings towards the end of November. STUDENTS:  YOU WILL HAVE TO CANCEL ANY OTHER ACTIVITIES YOU HAVE ON THESE TWO PERFORMANCE DAYS. This is a team effort and we cannot have anyone missing; and this is a compulsory component at St. Jude's.

Parents, if you would like to volunteer your time with us on Wednesdays at 1:30 for an hour, to help students go over their lines it would be very dearly appreciated. Any parent volunteers are welcome. The more the merrier - really! Line reading takes place on Wednesdays at 1:30.

Best Regards,
Mrs. M. Deras

Fifth Class - Wednesday, October 13, 2010

JK
The children will be learning two songs and artistic movement to another for the Christmas concert. They are attempting to enter and exist the stage and learning how to follow cues (silent directions) in order to sing in unison and to incorporate their actions at the proper moments.

PARENTS - please check this blog for postings of required items (props) and costumes. Your assistance will be imperative and enormously appreciated.

SK
On this day the children practised their song for the Christmas concert. They attempted to make their stage formations and add some actions while singing.

PARENTS - please check this blog for postings of required items (props) and costumes. Your assistance will be imperative and enormously appreciated.

Grades 1 and 2
The grade ones and twos are ambitiously learning their Christmas poem and their carol. They truly enjoy the idea of surprising parents with a good production, follow dirctions, take their cues, offer good ideas, and are a joy to work with. We are also learning a little bit of an ancient language..............

PARENTS - please check this blog for postings of required items (props) and costumes. Your assistance will be imperative and enormously appreciated.

Grades 3 and 4
We have been studying the play Romeo & Juliet by W. Shakespeare and are learning our roles in order to put on a 10 minute play for Mrs. Haag and Mr. Sawatsky. The boys and girls are to study ALL handouts, as the information and discussions we have had will be part of a test.

It is important to remember that every part in a play or production is VERY important. If we only had the leads, and that would be one or two people, the plays would be very boring indeed.

We must also remember to listen to our cast members so that we take our cues from their last word or action and this way know exactly when it is our turn to speak without the need for prompting.

Grades 5, 6, and 7
We once again reviewed the stage directions so that we know where to go when the director says to move UP STAGE RIGHT!!! We have reviewed several vocabulary words related to theatre and these will be posted somewhere on this blog eventually.

We have compared and contrasted the characters and will continue to do so until everyone is able to understand the roles the characters play in both Shakespeare's version as well as Mr. Bloedel's.

Finally we have defined the words MONOTONE and CAPITULATE!

TSOR&J - Cast Members
All the roles have now been allocated! Cast members have attempted a read through.
It is extremely important to start reading your lines properly - which means to start adding emotions. Remember we read in phrases and take PAUSES and follow punctuation marks to know when to stop, stop longer, and continue. We are trying to read for fluency and meaning and emotion. We are trying very hard to read ahead and prepare for classes so that when it's our turn to speak during class, we will not sound choppy. And we have agreed that we will all bring a pencil and our scripts to EACH AND EVERY CLASS!!!

Parents - your assistance in providing props for the play will be crucial and appreciated beyond belief. Please, please, please, either check the blog in order to be updated as to costumes, properties required, and attendance at rehearsals. For now, we are wondering if any of you have swimming/water noodles that you could lend us, that would be great. We need 6-8 any colours; please label them. They will be safely stored away after every rehearsal and will be returned after the production. Thank you.

Kindest Regards,
Mrs. M. Deras

Fourth Class - Wednesday, October 6th, 2010

JKs
The boys and girls were all amused at the different emotions I tried to convey to them, but showed they were able to understand that our faces can show what we're feeling when asked. We had some very sad, happy, angry, and surprised JK's. The children are beginning to understand that we can show these emotions with just our faces and no words, no noises, and more importantly without jumping around. We continued with the Jessie's story in the book Everybody Feels Angry, by Jane Bingham and learned that saying sorry with words and gestures is also very important. We then practised walking into the auditorium, lining up in our stage positions so that everyone can be seen by their parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and friends in the audience. We discussed the AUDIENCE and how we present for them. We also practised our bows and curtsies on cue.

SKs
The boys and girls practised lining up in their stage positions, as well as walking on and off stage. They are just gaining an understanding of what the Christmas concert is about. We practised our bowing on cue. In the second half of class we focused on emotions and how our faces can show happiness, sadness, anger, fear, and surprise. We finished Stacie's story in the book Everybody Feels Angry, by Jane Bigham. We are also learning that our actions can speak lounder than words and this includes facial expression.

Grades 1 and 2
The students listened to the Christmas poem which they will be reciting for the concert. In the auditorium, we then worked on the actions which will be added to the poem. The boys and girls are very excited, enthusiastic, and good listeners who are eager to put their best effort into the show. GREAT JOB GRADE ONEs AND TWOs!!!!

Grades 3 and 4
We studied more of the plot for Romeo and Juilet. The boys and girls worked together in groups to familiarized themselves with the different roles and the lines to be said by the characters. Some of the grade fours needed to audition or re-audition for the play.

HOMEWORK: as there will be a TEST on the materials covered in two weeks, the boys & girls are to
1) study the biography of William Shakespeare (given last week on a handout)
2) study the short version play of Romeo and Juliet (given this week on a four-page handout).

Grades 5, 6, and 7
We continued with our fluency exercises based on phrasing. We compared and contrasted the play Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare versus the Seussification of Romeo and Juiet by Peter Bloedel. Those boys and girls who were already given their parts were practising their lines while the rest of the students were re-auditioned.

THE SofR&J PLAY
Auditions have now closed and roles have been assigned. Students are expected to have read the play at least three times by the next class on Wednesday, October 13th. We will be going over stage directions, blocking ideas, costume ideas, and characterization at the next class and we will also read through as much of the play as possible. As we get closer to opening night, there will be a need for more rehearsals. Please keep that in mind.
HOMEWORK: define Monotone and Capitulate! NO ONE DID THIS PROPERLY; YOU MUST UNDERSTAND THE MEANING OF THESE WORDS.

Third Class - Wednesday, September 29, 2010

VOCABULARY FOR ALL
stage
audience
theatre
musical
play
movie
songs
costumes
set and set design
props
actor
enter
exit
bow
curtsey

JK
- We read Tom's story in the book Everybody Feels Angry, by Jane Bingham; and then studied how our faces are different when we're happy and when we're angry. We studied body movement, but had to do so quietly without words or noises. We all made some really good angry faces, but they all made us giggle.

- We discussed some of the vocabulary words posted above.

- We discussed shapes and will be trying to form good circles and good lines, all in preparation for getting on and off stage for the Christmas production.

- The JK's are having some difficulties with understanding that your position (or shape) on stage cannot be based on where your friend stands. It is based on height, voice projection, voice (tenor, alto, soprano), the role, the need to be here and not there, and in this age group - the behaviour.

SK
- We discussed shapes and then tried to make those shapes as a group of children standing in a circle, line, semi-circle, square, and triangle. We discussed the importance of standing where we are told to stand because that is what will make us most visible to an audience.

- We read Tom's story in the book Everybody Feels Angry, by  Jane Bingham; and then studied how our faces are different when we're happy and when we're angry. We studied body movement, but had to do so quietly without words or noises.

- The boys and girls enjoyed the poem Planning, by Thomas Hood. Next Wednesday we will trying acting out some of the "plans that have been made" when grown up.

Grades 1 and 2
- We have started preparing for Christmas and the children really took off with a little bit of Latin.
- We read the poem Brother and Sister, by Lewis Carroll, and discussed issues with sibings by way of acting out how it makes us feel, using our facial expression, and some noises and descriptive words.
- We read Tom's story in the book Everybody Feels Angry, by Jane Bingham; and then studied how our faces are different when we're happy and when we're angry.
- With this group, we also discussed some of the vocabulary words posted above.

Grades 3 and 4
The children discovered that, unfortunately, Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, is in fact a tragedy as half the cast dies. We discussed the players and their significance in the Bard's work.

The class has received a handout that was reviewed about the life of W. Shakespeare. This needs to be studied and placed in a folder/binder/duo-tang.

THERE WILL BE A TEST ON BOTH THE LIFE OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE AS WELL AS THE PLAY ROMEO AND JULIET.

Grades 5, 6, and 7
By these grades children should be developing fluency in reading. In order to do so, in preparation for the play, speeches, and the future we have started exercises in fluency and phrasing. Emotions, punctuation, and the interpretation of meaning must be understood as materials are read, whether outloud or silently. This comes with practise, vocabulary expansion, and proper phrasing versus phoneticising.
We discussed stage directions and reviewed the different parts of the theatre (the building).

We also discussed William Shakespeare's life in brevity, the types of works he wrote, as well as the synopsis of Romeo and Juliet, the characters and their significance (and demise in many cases).

TSoRaJ (aka The Play)
Scripts were handed out today!!!!!
We discussed the following "concepts" also known as rules: we must work together; we must accept the roles we are given since there cannot be two people playing the same part; our parts require us to be comfortable doing what is required of that role, and we must ALWAYS PAY ATTENTION because even though it may not be our role to speak, we may still be required to stand in a certain spot on cue.

CUE - when someone says something, or does something, in the play that gives a signal to me to be prepared to go, or do, or say, or look at, what it is that I am supposed to do, or say, or to go there, etc.

Please check the blog for posting of all roles.
Romeo, Juliet, and one the narrators have been decided but not yet announced.
All the rest of the roles will be assigned AFTER next Wednesday's class.

HOMEWORK: We have discussed most of the characters. We read through a few parts of the script together. PLEASE FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH THE ENTIRE SCRIPT BY NEXT CLASS AS WE WILL BE GOING THROUGH IT TOGETHER AND MAKING A FEW CHANGES AND DISCUSSING IMPORTANT THINGS LIKE COSTUMES, PROPS, AND BLOCKING.

Define: MONOTONE and CAPITULATE

AUDITIONS for Grades 5, 6, and 7 (and those grade 4's who REALLY want to)

As you may have noticed on the bulletin board, the audition notice has been posted. The sign-up sheet is beside it.

Here's what's required, i.e. these are the instructions: study one of the following two links (Romeo's soliloquy Act 2, Scene 2  or Juliet's soliloquy Act 3, Scene 2). Make sure you are able to understand them (that's why the modern English version is beside it). DO NOT FREAK OUT OVER MEMORIZING IT!!! IT'S NOT REQUIRED (I mean neither the freaking out, nor the memorizing).

You will be asked to come in to a room, one by one, and present to me, Mr. Sawatsky, and possibly one other teacher. You will also be asked to read a passage from the script which we will be using. You will get that script on Wednesday. You will need to understand that we are all in this together, and there can only be one person playing one character at a time, but ALL the characters are NEEDED. I can't change the play to include two Juliets, 10 Narrators, 3 Mercutios, 5 Heffalumps, and 6 Sugarplums, and no Romeos - it is what it is...... "To be; or not to be - that is the question."

Romeo: http://nfs.sparknotes.com/romeojuliet/page_78.html

Juliet: http://nfs.sparknotes.com/romeojuliet/page_154.html

Here's what I'm looking for - fluency, understanding what you're reading,  projecting your voice without yelling, applying emotion, clarity of speech (HERE'S A HINT - SLOW DOWN!!!) and being able to take direction!
Good Luck!

PS You will be asked to memorize your part in the script by the end of October, or a little sooner - just in case you were wondering. :-)

Mrs. Deras

PPSS I will have a label with your name, written in calligraphy, made for Wednesday's class. Make sure you have your black duotangs as I will attach your labels. If you have a label already, you don't have to have mine.

Second Class - Wednesday, September 22, 2010

JK's
The class practised putting emotions into speech through onomatopoeic presentations.We studied  and really enjoyed The Three Little Kittens and had excellent responses/performances. The class made formal presentations once again and tried to say more than just their names. We need to overcome some shyness when speaking by ourselves. Overall a job well done.

SK's
By reciting the poem Pat-a-Cake, the children worked on synchronicity as well as speed. We tried very hard to say it quickly and slowly, but together. It was tough, but we did. Once again, we practised proper presentation with a focus on clarity and volume. You did some excellent work. We have some very eager performers. 

Grades 1 and 2
Today we listened to and discussed the poems Schoolitis, by Brian Patten and Chicken Poxed by Valerie Bloom . We also started preparations for the Christmas concert/production. The class listened to our special poem and is to think about presenting it and acting in it (both will be done by all children). We went to the auditorium again to learn about walking on stage, stage courtesy, stage presence, and projection of our voices. HOMEWORK:  Practise any nursery rhyme that is easy. Remember, I just want something SHORT to which you easily know the words so we may practise using your voice, adding emotion, entering and exiting, etc and not worrying about the words. Memorization of more difficult pieces will start shortly......... do not fret.

Grade 3
We have decided to study Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Although the grade 3's have one more year before they will partake in the school play, we will study the play in class. Today we listened to Peter Dixon's Teabag. The students all decided that being a teabag would end tragically, if the teabag were to meet its purpose in life. Each student had the opportunity to read aloud from Dr. Seuss's Green Eggs and Ham, something easy and familiar in order to practise voice projection, stance, posture, and clarity. We need much work in this department and a few students will need to read next week. HOMEWORK: please learn Humpty Dumpty, Twinkle Twinkle, Mary Had a Little Lamb, etc. We need to work on our presentation skills before we hit the hard stuff!!!! After next week the dramatics will get more dramatic.

Grade 4
The above applies to all of you too! We discussed the play in which you will play a part: The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet, by Peter Bloedel. You will receive your scripts next week. The workload will be heavy. HOMEWORK: If you do truly want a major role, you will need to auditon before the class. You must learn (not by heart, but well) the soliloquy of either Romeo or Juliet. Please search my blog for a link. It will appear shortly, probably near the bottom. To those who did not present their poem today, you will do so next week.

Grades 5, 6, & 7
It's official - the play is underway. We will be performing Peter Bloedel's The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet, a lighter version of the heavier original. Hopefully we can combine learning, education, and fun........hmmmmmmmmmmmmm.  Remember there are many good parts and we must all work together. Romeo and Juliet had feuding families, without which there would be no Romeo and Juliet - only a very elegant wedding. Once again emotions, voice modulation, and presentation were forefront as we tried to put ourselves in other people's situations, learned emphasis on dialogue, and presented our nursery rhymes. We discussed soliloquies. HOMEWORK: Please read everything in your black drama folder. All the pages must be read. Bring your questions to class. You must have a solid understanding of the characters and the synopsis. If you wish to audition for a major role, please learn either the soliloquy for Romeo or Juliet which I will post shortly. Memorization is not necessary, though it's not a bad idea; for it truly is a beautiful piece of work to know. We have much toiling to do............be prepared!!!! There are only two months before we appear on stage.

Mrs. Deras

Just to keep you informed grade by grade about our FIRST CLASS

JK's
We began with introductions and speaking loudly and clearly. Everyone practised saying their name enthusiastically and with a smile. We looked at the Chinchilla's eyes to understand that our eyes can show different emotions. Added to that were a few songs that also helped us show emotions. The class listened to the poem, What is Pink?, by Christina Rossetti and discussed how thinking about different colours makes us feel different things. Way to go JK's!

SK's
The Senior Kindergarten class introduced themselves one by one. The idea of "stage left" and "stage right" was introduced through their approach to our "centre stage". Introductions were made confidently and clearly followed by a bow or curtsy. Those curtsies need work as we try not to topple over. The Chinchilla made his debut to this class and we studied how his eyes tell us what he feels. Everyone got to give him a hug to make him feel less afraid. We studied the poem, What is Pink? by Christina Rossetti, as well as the entire five verses of the lullaby Twinkle Twinkle, known as The Star, by Jane Taylor.

Grade 1's and 2's
The grade ones and twos were very eager to get started. We discussed different types of theatre, and have some opera afficionados in the class. Introductions were made very confidently, as were the entrances and exits from the stage. We went to the auditorium and looked at the different physical aspects that make up a theatre. All were very excited to see the "back stage" area. HOMEWORK - all the children were asked to prepare a very short nursery rhyme or poem. It needs to be short as we just need to know the words, and work over and over on proper presentation.

Grade 3's and 4's
The boys and girls had a very fun time presenting themselves at centre stage (in our classroom). Each introduction was repeated until we were confidently able to hear a name and a personal interest. We expanded our likes and dislikes by stressing emotions through voice modulation, volume, and posture. We have a lot of work ahead of us when the giggles found their way among us. The poem of the day was: Vegetable Strike Back, by Steve Turner. Who would have thought a poem about vegetables could be quite so distressing and scary. We will be returning to that poem again. HOMEWORK - both grades were asked to know a very short poem or nursery rhyme. GRADE 4'S - you will be participating in the school production based on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, please browse through the link at the bottom of the blog.

Grade 5's, 6's and 7's
Double, double toil and trouble. We started with quick introductions and jumped right into discussions about the theatre and different types of performances we have seen. We compared the dry version of In Flander's Fields with one that shows emotion. We read through Shakespeare's Witches' Song from Macbeth, several times, discussing how voice modulation can make the verse more frightening. We read through Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss in order to practise using our voices while reading something very familiar. HOMEWORK - a very short poem or nursery rhyme needs to be memorized for next class. I stress the word SHORT! As all of you will be participating in the school production based on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, I encourage you to click on the link at the bottom of the blog. Till we meet again, dear class; till we meet again.

Mrs. Deras

JK - Grade 7: Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Dear Parents,

Today was a very exciting and dramatic first day, as formal introductions were made. All the boys and girls were individually brought to centre stage to introduce themselves to the class and to me. Throughout the year, we will be working on clarity of speech, voice intonation and modulation, as well as stage presence, while studying children's poetry, plays, and forms of improvisation. We will also be very hard at work preparing for our school productions.

Shortly I will post the specific poems and activities that were studied by each grade. Stay tuned, as we will always have some dramatic activity to practise for homework.
It was wonderful to meet all the smiling faces on the eager young actors.