Starting up a drama program in a small school is the ultimate labor of love, but it can sometimes feel like something designed to torture Sisyphus. I personally grew up in a small, rural town in Michigan, and it’s only after years and years have passed can I truly appreciate the gift those teachers gave me. Indeed, it’s why I started this company!
However, scarce resources, tiny (or nonexistent) budgets, and limited class sizes can make it hard to bring the creative vision to life. But don’t worry, you’re not alone in this struggle. Thankfully, there are some incredible online resources out there, created by people who love teaching theatre as much as you. These five blogs are packed with tools, tips, and ideas to help you build a thriving drama program—no matter how small your school or how stretched your resources might be.
StageAgent
StageAgent offers a treasure trove of resources for drama educators. Their blog covers everything from creating youth theatre programs to tips on managing auditions and directing plays. With articles like “Creating a Youth Theatre Program: How to Start” and character breakdowns for popular productions, StageAgent equips teachers with practical advice to make the most of their resources. This platform is perfect for educators seeking guidance on program development and ideas for engaging students.
WeAreTeachers
WeAreTeachers is a go-to site for educators in all fields, including drama. Their articles provide step-by-step guides, such as “How to Start a Drama Program at Your School”, which breaks down the process into actionable steps. From lesson plan ideas to icebreakers for theatre classes, WeAreTeachers offers plenty of support for educators building drama programs in smaller schools. Their resources are not only insightful but also relatable, written by experienced teachers who understand the challenges of working with limited resources.
StageMilk
StageMilk focuses on acting resources and professional development for aspiring actors, but its insights into running effective drama classes are invaluable for educators. Their article “How to Run a Great Drama Class” offers tips on structuring lessons, encouraging creativity, and maintaining student engagement—all essential for small schools. StageMilk’s blend of practical advice and inspiration makes it a great resource for drama teachers at any level.
The Drama Teacher
The Drama Teacher is a comprehensive resource for theatre educators, featuring articles on curriculum development, acting exercises, and production tips. Particularly useful for small schools, this blog offers advice on how to stretch limited budgets and adapt lessons for small groups. Whether you’re looking for fresh warm-up activities or guidance on directing your first play, The Drama Teacher has you covered.
Dramamommaspeaks
Dramamommaspeaks is a blog written by a seasoned theatre educator who shares lesson plans, games, and classroom strategies. Her focus on making theatre accessible and enjoyable for students of all ages is especially valuable for small schools. Posts like “Drama Games for the First Week of School” and “How to Teach Improvisation” offer creative ways to engage students and build a love for theatre.
Why These Blogs Matter
Running a drama program in a small school can feel daunting, but these blogs provide the tools, guidance, and inspiration to make it happen. From actionable advice to creative lesson plans, these resources are tailored to meet the unique needs of educators balancing big dreams with small budgets. By exploring these platforms, you’ll find innovative ways to grow your program, inspire your students, and make theatre an integral part of your school community.
At the same time, we know that finding high-quality plays and classroom materials is a big part of the challenge. That’s why Gitelman & Good Publishers offers a curated catalog of great plays written specifically for high school performers, along with free supplemental resources for each play to support your classroom. Whether you’re looking for fresh scripts, character analysis guides, or creative activities, we’re here to help you bring your drama program to life. Explore our collection and see how we can make your work a little easier—and a lot more fun!
Do you have a favorite blog that helps you with your drama program? Share it in the comments—we’d love to hear your recommendations!