Connecting the 2010 season with what I teach
There is so much more to it than Drama. Here are 11 ways that La Boite Theatre Company's work connects to various parts of school curricula, including English / English Communication, History, SOSE, Health, Art, Computer Studies / Technology, Dance, Music, Film and Media and Religion
1. Not only is The Gruffalo a great example of Theatre for Young People, but as a musical adaptation of an award winning picture book, it is also a fun show for English students studying short stories and children's literature.
2. Hamlet is a classic text in the study of English / English Communication. Furthermore, the historical, political and social setting of its time and its influence on Western Literature make strong connections to the study of History and SOSE.
3. The religious and mythical content in Hamlet explores issues such as afterlife, suicide, death and purgatory, while The Chairs raises question of the meaning of life. Furthermore, Gwen in Purgatory is a contemporary look at the role of missionaries in regional Australia. Powerful works to compliment a Religion course of study.
4. In Physical Education and English / English Communication students study identity and self. Within Hamlet, Stockholm and I Love You, Bro themes of individuality and character are prevalent and help us explore notions of role and who we are.
5. Understanding physical relationships and development are both modules within the PE and Health curriculum. Hamlet, Stockholm, I Love You, Bro and Engine touch upon issues of mental health, diving into the complexities and challenges faced in personal relationships.
6. Stockholm is a mesmerizingly powerful piece of physical theatre that uses a unique approach and draws on various art forms. Ideal to accompany studies in Dance and Music curriculum.
7. Two shocking and intriguing cases in recent history are that of the Stockholm heist in 1973 and the Manchester deceit of 2003. Providing the inspiration for Stockholm and I Love You, Bro, these events connect with both English and History students.
8. I Love You, Bro is a tragedy for the dotcom generation and contains strong curriculum links to students studying Computer Studies/Technology. What starts out as a humorous look at socialising in the digital era swiftly morphs into a dark analysis of our atomised society.
9. The integration of media technologies including lighting, sound, imagery and film in I Love You, Bro and Hamlet provide strong examples of production and design for the study of Film and Media curriculum.
10. Gwen in Purgatory is a modern Australian work that is set in the regional Australian landscape, perfect for studies of community and environment.
11. Engine is a powerful piece of theatre for young people that explores themes of freedom, rites of passage and grief. A poignant show, ideal to accompany studies in Health, Religion, English and SOSE.
