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All costumes, props and scene work needed for the assembly.

None

No special space requirements.

I can acknowledge new ideas expressed in discussion and modify my views if needed. I can adapt a drama/theater work and present it informally for an audience.

Startin" Drama is an interactive theater performance that teaches the essential elements needed for a positive school climate: empathy, engagement and empowerment. Based on information gathered from teachers prior to the assembly, HartBeat creates and performs scenes that come from specific situations that are relevant to the school community. Examples of common scene topics are: rumors, cyber bullying, racial stereotypes and anger management. Startin" Drama features three segments. The first segment is an original scene written and performed by HartBeat Ensemble. Each scene deals with a different conflict and ends with the characters aligning themselves from one another, getting into a physical fight, or "getting in trouble" with supervising adults. During the second segment, HartBeat facilitates a discussion in which youth are asked to explain the different points of view the characters represent, and possible background stories for the characters. Students brainstorm alternative actions for the characters that might change the outcome of the scene. In the final segment, HartBeat replays the scene with the suggested alternative OR with youth who volunteer to take the place of the protagonists and change the scene themselves. The scene can be replayed multiple times, each with a different suggestion, and it becomes a fun, entertaining way to practice peaceful conflict resolution.