Need something new for #BlackHistoryMonth? A history unit? #Diversity? Because #BlackLivesMatter? As a theater teacher, I write plays for my students to perform when I can’t find what I need. And because I know how busy you are, I thought I’d share this one. (Free PDF download below)
WE, TOO, ARE AMERICA–a tribute for Black History Month, was written for a class of any color–or MANY COLORS–to perform as an assembly or class project. (I promise you, it’s very easy to produce.)
Students will read about and portray twenty-five African-Americans who have helped shape America.
I’ve attached the pdf here: We, too, are America –a tribute to Black History
Production Notes:
Cast: Flexible cast. 30 speaking parts–5 narrators, 25 “masks”. Some roles may be combined.
Properties/Costumes:
Masks: Hand held masks– enlarged photos of actual historical figures with name printed clearly in large bold letters so audience can read it. (Laminate; attach a paint stick as handle–at neck. Optional: Back side of mask can have the character’s lines on it.)
Variation: Masks with names only, printed clearly in large bold letters so audience can read it. Combine with power point showing photos of actual historical figures.
Simple costume pieces/props may be added for specific characters, such as hat and purse for Rosa Parks, school books for Elizabeth Eckford, etc. Others may be imagined or pantomimed.
Sound: (Optional) “Military” drums, kettle drum.
Suggested Songs*: “We Shall Overcome,” “Follow the Drinking Gourd,” “O Freedom,” “Lift Every Voice and Sing”. *Others may certainly be used instead.
Poem: I, Too, Am America by Langston Hughes.
Happy February, dear Teachers. I hope you’ll take the time to share these amazing Americans and their contributions with your students.
If you perform the play–take a pic and send it my way via twitter @ErinDealey or my web site.
Most of all, THANK YOU for all you do for your students.
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