Cinderella the Model

One of the skills of a good actor is the ability to commit to the character. You must try to become the character as much as you possibly can. If you know the character's thoughts, feelings and background, then memorizing the words becomes simple.

 

I always tell my kids to do research on whatever role they're playing and try and get into that "character's shoes". Get in their head! Take risks! Be brave on stage! Don't be afraid to over exaggerate gestures, words, or feelings.

As a final challenge for the Drama Academy kids this year, I introduced a script on the story of Cinderella. The boys opened their mouths in horror when I first gave them the script. "I don't want to be a girl!" they all shouted.

 

After the 1st reading, students began to accept and even like the script because they realized there was a funny twist to the ending.

The prince, thinking that Cinderella was a rich princess, only wanted to marry her for her money. Once the ugly step-sisters revealed to him that Cinderella was poor, he no longer wanted to marry her. Cinderella was of course not impressed. She didn't want to marry a prince who only cared about money anyway! After throwing her glass slippers in his face, the Fairy God Mother appeared and granted her a much better wish. Cinderella became "America's Next Top Model!"

And what about the prince and ugly step-sisters? Perhaps you can ask one of the Drama Academy kids to tell you : )

Well done boys! You are all shining stars!