Creating Shared Culture in Schools through Temporary Communities Track : PreK-8 Presenter : Darcy McDonnell Location : Bianco - 318 ( 3 rd Floor ) – Swissotel Chicago
CONFERENCE SCHEDULE | 10
As applied drama practitioners facilitating community-oriented work , how many people can we include ? When does a community become too large to experience genuine connection between each member and who may be excluded ? In large organizations like schools , it is difficult to create a sense of real community across so many individuals ; yet it is critical that students feel a sense of belonging in order for schools to provide optimal learning environments . To facilitate the creation of an inclusive school culture , practitioners can structure a variety of temporary communities that transcend classrooms and grade levels . In these short-term configurations , students bond in meaningful and lasting ways through drama experiences such as creating original stories . When these groups intentionally reflect the diversity in the overall school population , over time and different iterations , they can establish a unique culture shared by the organization overall . In this workshop , participants will consider how to structure temporary communities within an organization ; engage in sample creative drama activities that contribute to development of an authentic , inclusive culture ; reflect on what aspects of those experiences spark meaningful connections with the potential to endure ; and discuss variables , obstacles , and best practices in large-scale community building .
Embodied Learning : the importance of incorporating mindful physicality in teaching Tracks : Applied Theatre , College / University , High School , PreK-8 , Research / Scholarship , Youth Theatre Presenters : Nan Smithner & Hannah Curry Location : Geneva ( Concourse ) – Swissotel Chicago
This workshop will emphasize the value of engaging both the body and the mind in a physicalized teaching style . In our contemporary culture , young students are often absorbed in technology and virtual exchange , rather than dynamic face-to-face interactions . While the body is often considered to be separate from the mind , this workshop will emphasize the belief that the body and mind are intertwined , especially when operating through empathy , emotion , and collaboration in physical expression . In active and playful exchange , I will offer practical techniques to encourage students to build mental and physical dexterity . We will explore ways to build ensemble , kinesthetic empathy and corporeal listening through playful improvisational exercises , as well as investigate the proprioceptive skills of agility , coordination and balance . These accessible techniques for the mind-full body will develop self-confidence , adaptability and flexibility , in addition to relieving stress in an overwhelming cultural climate . The roots of change dwell in encouraging our students , as learners , and ourselves , as teachers , to embrace the power of movement as artists and citizens , thus becoming more flexible , spontaneous and empathetic in our encounters in the world .
Forum Theatre with High Schoolers : A Catalyst for Action Track : High School Presenter : Zoe Kamil Location : Alpine 1 ( Lucerne Level ) – Swissotel Chicago
In this session , we will walk through Augusto Boal ' s process of creating Forum Theatre , which aims to highlight unjust dynamics in a community and problem solve to interrupt these dynamics . We will explore how this work , which is usually thought of as " alternative " or " advanced " theatre practice , can reasonably be adopted for teens of all theatre skills levels and experiences .
Updated 7.17.24