Afterpiece: A Podcast About Educational Theatre

Coaching the Young Actor Part 3: Unlocking the Scene: Beats, Key Words, and Cues in Acting

In this episode of Afterpiece, we continue our journey through practical tools for young actors, diving into exercises that refine essential acting techniques. We focus on helping students identify beats and key words to enhance scene work and character understanding. Additionally, we explore the vital distinction between cues and triggers, empowering actors to respond naturally and intuitively in their performances. Whether you’re an aspiring actor or a seasoned coach, these exercises are crafted to elevate skills and foster genuine stage presence.
Website: www.DragooTheatre.com
Facebook: DragooTheatreConsultants
Presentation: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1BMKT2N56wUtWmm1il_1kOwAkkW7b_Ui2GaKeW52nd5A/edit?usp=sharing
 

Speaking Their Language: Connecting with Gen Z and Gen Alpha Through Theatre

In this episode of Afterpiece, Billy and Annie Dragoo dive into the evolving language of Generation Alpha and why it matters for theatre educators. With a special introduction by Kevin Patrick, recent recipient of the Texas Educational Theatre Association's College Professor of the Year award, listeners get a taste of Gen Alpha’s lingo and how understanding it can help educators better connect with students. Billy and Annie break down popular terms like “bet,” “vibe check,” and “drip,” exploring how using these expressions can create an inclusive, engaging environment in the classroom and on stage. Perfect for anyone looking to bridge generational gaps and build stronger relationships with young theatre artists!
 
www.DragooTheatre.com
Facebook: DragooTheatreConsultants
 
 

Roadtrip Discussion

In this episode, Billy and Annie interview each other about their teaching and directing careers while going on a 17 hour roadtrip.
 
www.DragooTheatre.com
Facebook: Dragoo Theatre Consultants

Coaching the Young Actor Part 2

This is a continuation of the discussion on how to approach teaching your young actors. 
Here is a link to the presentation.
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1BMKT2N56wUtWmm1il_1kOwAkkW7b_Ui2GaKeW52nd5A/edit?usp=sharing 
 
www.DragooTheatre.com
Facebook Dragoo Theatre Consultants

Musical Theatre Curriculum

Today, Billy interviews Annie about her new book, Musical Theatre Curriculum. 
You will want to check this out as it is a good discussion about musical theatre in the classroom and on stage. 
www.DragooTheatre.com
Facebook: Dragoo Theatre Consultants

Coaching the Young Actor Part 1

Coaching the Young Actor - in this episode, Billy and Annie discuss effective techniques for teaching the process of teaching acting.
Use this link to see the presentation. https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1BMKT2N56wUtWmm1il_1kOwAkkW7b_Ui2GaKeW52nd5A/edit?usp=sharing
 
www.DragooTheatre.com
Facebook: Dragoo Theatre Consultants

7 Habits of Highly Effective Directors with Kelly Russell

This weeks episode is an interview with Professor Kelly Russell. Kelly gives wisdom for directors...a guide to be a good director at your school. 
Website: www.DragooTheatre.com
Facebook: Dragoo Theatre Consultants

Getting To Know Your Students & Actors

Billy & Annie Discuss some great ways to get to know your students & actors. 
www.DragooTheatre.com
Facebook: Dragoo Theatre Consultants
 
Questions for Discussion & Writing
1.Who is your hero?
2.If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
3.What is your biggest fear?
4.What is your favorite family vacation?
5.What would you change about yourself if you could?
6.What really makes you angry?
7.What motivates you to work hard?
8.What is your favorite thing about your career?
9.What is your biggest complaint about your job?
10.What is your proudest accomplishment?
11.What is your child's proudest accomplishment?
12.What is your favorite book to read?
13.What makes you laugh the most?
14.What was the last movie you went to? What did you think?
15.What did you want to be when you were small?
16.What does your child want to be when he/she grows up?
17.If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be?
18.What is your favorite game or sport to watch and play?
19.Would you rather ride a bike, ride a horse, or drive a car?
20.What would you sing at Karaoke night?
21.What two radio stations do you listen to in the car the most?
22.Which would you rather do: wash dishes, mow the lawn, clean
the bathroom, or vacuum the house?
23.If you could hire someone to help you, would it be with
cleaning, cooking, or yard work?
24.If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what
would it be?
25.Who is your favorite author?
26. Have you ever had a nickname? What is it?
27. Do you like or dislike surprises? Why or why not?28. In the evening, would you rather play a game, visit a relative,
watch a movie, or read?
29. Would you rather vacation in Hawaii or Alaska, and why?
30. Would you rather win the lottery or work at the perfect job?
And why?
31. Who would you want to be stranded with on a deserted
island?
32. If money was no object, what would you do all day?
33. If you could go back in time, what year would you travel to?
34. How would your friends describe you?
35. What are your hobbies?
36. What is the best gift you have been given?
37. What is the worst gift you have received?
38. Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day
without?
39. List two pet peeves.
40. Where do you see yourself in five years?
41. How many pairs of shoes do you own?
42. If you were a super-hero, what powers would you have?
43. What would you do if you won the lottery?
44. What form of public transportation do you prefer? (air, boat,
train, bus, car, etc.)
45. What's your favorite zoo animal?
46. If you could go back in time to change one thing, what would it
be?
47. If you could share a meal with any 4 individuals, living or
dead, who would they be?
48. How many pillows do you sleep with?
49. What's the longest you've gone without sleep (and why)?
50. What's the tallest building you've been to the top in?
51. Would you rather trade intelligence for looks or looks for
intelligence?
52. How often do you buy clothes?
53. Have you ever had a secret admirer?54. What's your favorite holiday?
55. What's the most daring thing you've ever done?56. What was
the last thing you recorded on TV?
57. What was the last book you read?
58. What's your favorite type of foreign food?
59. Are you a clean or messy person?
60. Who would you want to play you in a movie of your life?
61. How long does it take you to get ready in the morning?
62. What kitchen appliance do you use every day?
63. What's your favorite fast food chain?
64. What's your favorite family recipe?
65. Do you love or hate rollercoasters?
66. What's your favorite family tradition?
67. What is your favorite childhood memory?
68. What's your favorite movie?
69. How old were you when you learned Santa wasn't real? How
did you find out?
70. Is your glass half full or half empty?
71. What's the craziest thing you've done in the name of love?
72. What three items would you take with you on a deserted
island?
73. What was your favorite subject in school?
74. What's the most unusual thing you've ever eaten?
75. Do you collect anything?
76. Is there anything you wished would come back into fashion?
77. Are you an introvert or an extrovert?
78. Which of the five senses would you say is your strongest?
79. Have you ever had a surprise party? (that was an actual
surprise)
80. Are you related or distantly related to anyone famous?
81. What do you do to keep fit?82. Does your family have a "motto" - spoken or unspoken?
83. If you were ruler of your own country what would be the first
law you would introduce?
84. Who was your favorite teacher in school and why?
85. What three things do you think of the most each day?
86. If you had a warning label, what would yours say?
87. What song would you say best sums you up?
88. What celebrity would you like to meet at Starbucks for a cup
of coffee?
89. Who was your first crush?
90. What's the most interesting thing you can see out of your
office or kitchen window?
91. On a scale of 1-10 how funny would you say you are?
92. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
93. What was your first job?
94. If you could join any past or current music group which would
you want to join?
95. How many languages do you speak?
96. What is your favorite family holiday tradition?
97. Who is the most intelligent person you know?
98. If you had to describe yourself as an animal, which one would
it be?
99. What is one thing you will never do again?
100. Who knows you the best?

Advice for the New & Experienced Theatre Teacher

Billy & Annie discuss advice for new and experienced teachers that were given from a recent survey. These pieces of advice come from theatre educators around the country.
 
Website: www.DragooTheatre.com
Facebook Page: Dragoo Theatre Consultants

How to Take Care of Yourself as a Theatre Director

Billy and Annie discuss the importance of taking care of yourself. 
Facebook: Dragoo Theatre Consultants
Website: www.DragooTheatre.com
Taking care of oneself as a teacher is crucial for maintaining well-being and effectiveness in the classroom. Here are several ways teachers can prioritize self-care:
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Designate specific times for work and relaxation, and try to stick to them. Avoid bringing work home whenever possible.
Practice Stress Management: Develop and practice stress-relieving techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or exercise. These activities can help reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eat nutritious meals, stay hydrated, and get regular exercise. Physical health directly impacts mental and emotional well-being, so prioritize activities that promote overall health.
Seek Support: Build a support network of colleagues, friends, and family members whom you can turn to for encouragement and advice. It's important to have people who understand the challenges of teaching and can offer support.
Engage in Hobbies and Interests: Pursue hobbies and interests outside of teaching that bring joy and relaxation. Whether it's reading, gardening, painting, or playing a musical instrument, engaging in activities you love can help recharge your energy.
Reflect and Learn: Take time to reflect on your teaching practice and professional development. Continuous learning and self-reflection can enhance teaching effectiveness and job satisfaction.
Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals for yourself both personally and professionally. Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Take Breaks: Allow yourself regular breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. Even short breaks can improve focus and productivity when you return to tasks.
Prioritize Sleep: Ensure you get enough sleep each night. Quality sleep is essential for cognitive function, emotional well-being, and overall health.
Seek Professional Help if Needed: If stress or feelings of burnout persist despite efforts to manage them, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. Talking to a counselor or therapist can provide strategies for coping with stress and improving overall well-being.
By prioritizing self-care, teachers can better manage the demands of their profession while maintaining their health and happiness. Taking care of oneself isn't selfish; it's necessary for being able to effectively care for and educate students.