Writing Sub Plans for Theatre
Make it Sparkle Video with David Peterson
Theatre Director and Teacher
6:52 (runtime)
Director’s Notes
Theatre Director and Teacher David Peterson first talks about recording performances, and how it's sometimes easier to miss the performances. The first tip he offers up is to ensure the camera captures close shots and clear audio.
Reading & Scene Work: David says you can use online tools like Google Forms with prompts or questions to see if students are understanding script and engaged.
Utilizing Student Leaders: He says you can have trusted students facilitate warm-up games, activities, and instructions during the teacher's absence.
Planning Ahead: David stresses how important it is to always think about the upcoming week. He says from there you can create clear plans and better understand the relation between lessons.
Feedback Mechanisms: In the teacher's absence, David encourages you to use written feedback for projects or have your substitute ask specific questions.
Student Accountability: He says it’s vital to set clear expectations and timelines so students know their responsibilities. David says you can offer guidelines for subs to manage challenging student groups.
About David Peterson
David Peterson has been doing theatre since the age of 9. A student of a creative and performing arts magnet school from the 4-12 grade and a graduate of Ball State University, Mr. Peterson loves doing all aspects theatre. He also holds a Master's degree form Lesley University. As an actor, designer, technician, or as a director, he loves seeing the art form come to life.
He currently serves as the director of theater and technical theatre at Chaparral High School in Parker, Colorado, an Outstanding Theatre School as named by Education Theatre Association. The Denver Center awarded him with the Outstanding Director Bobby G Award. Colorado State Thespians honored him as the 2014-15 high school teacher of the year. He was the proud director of Chaparral High School's main stage performances at the Colorado State Thespian Conferences with their production of Go Back for Murder and Cash on Delivery. He directed the Chaparral production of Puck's Potion, a main stage selection at the International Thespian Conference.
He also directed several National Performing Arts Festival Showcase Winners in Orlando, Florida. He has had the honor and privilege of presenting workshops and serving on panels at USITT, AATE, Thespian and ACT conferences. He was an Apple Award finalist for Douglas County School District in 2015. He served as the treasurer for the Alliance for Colorado Theatre for 14 years. He currently serves as the performing arts department chair at Chaparral High School.