Graland’s New Theater Company: Inspiring Creativity, Curiosity, and Belonging in Grades 7/8

Devised theater is a collaborative form of theater-making, where the creative process begins without a pre-existing script. The ensemble works together to create a performance piece from scratch, exploring ideas and concepts as a group.

Moment Work, a technique developed by Moisés Kaufman and Tectonic Theater Project, is an integral part of devised theater. This method emphasizes the importance of space, shape, time, emotion, and movement in constructing a narrative. Moment Work enables actors to create powerful and impactful theatrical moments while experimenting with various elements like rhythm, duration, and tempo. (“How Moment Work Leads to Narrating with the Elements of the Stage: Drew University’s Collaboration With the Tectonic Theater Project,” Lisa S. Brenner and Barbara Pitts McAdams).

 

Graland Theater Teachers Dan O’Neill and Julie Lachance attended the Colorado Thespians Educators Conference last fall, where they participated in a workshop called “Devising theater with Young People” led by theater artist and director, Samwell Rose. Inspired by the workshop, they collaborated with Lead Librarian Ashleigh Stepanian as a dramaturg to bring this unique approach to Graland.

During the summer of 2024 as a grant project, Mr. O’Neill, Mrs. Lachance, and Mrs. Stepanian invited Samwell Rose to lead a two-day Moment Work workshop. By the end of the summer, they successfully devised a scaffolded curriculum for the entire year.

With 19 enthusiastic seventh and eighth-grade students enrolled in the course, the Graland theater Company aims “to provide a brave space where students can thrive.”

Mr. O’Neill, Mrs. Lachance, and Mrs. Stepanian emphasize that their goal is to create a culture of belonging where every student feels known, valued, and free to express their creativity. By participating in the theater company as part of their ICE experience, students will learn teamwork, collaboration, and develop a sense of curiosity as they explore the captivating world of devised theater and Moment Work.

Another key objective of the Graland Theater Company is to cultivate a deep appreciation for theater and ensemble work. As students engage in devised theater and Moment Work, they will develop essential skills that will benefit them now and in the future.

Through collaboration, students learn to respect diverse perspectives while enhancing their teamwork and communication abilities. The creative problem-solving inherent in devised theater encourages critical thinking and innovation. Performing in front of an audience boosts self-confidence and public speaking skills, while navigating the dynamic nature of theater fosters adaptability and resilience.

By nurturing this love for theater, Graland aims to inspire students to continue developing their talents in high school and beyond. As the Graland community eagerly awaits the innovative performances that will emerge this spring, we celebrate the creativity and collaboration that define devised theater and Moment Work, looking forward to the magic our young artists will bring to the stage both now and in their bright futures!