Frances Benjamin Johnston [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
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OverviewThe theatrical arts, a sub-type of performing arts and sometimes grouped with dance and the kinesthetic arts, include expression such as drama/theatre, musicals, and other dramatic arts (Jensen, 2001). The imagistic elements that are the foundation of theatre are likely innate, and the formation of language then allowed for the establishment of what became theatre as we know it today and for its success in human culture (Rozik, 2002). The effects of theatre on culture can be as obvious as a political performance piece, or more subtle, as theatre provides people the opportunity to safely explore different norms, themes, and ideas (Kershaw, 1992, p. 24). Drama and roleplay can be a fun way for children to learn and practice social skills (Wright, n.d.).
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CC by 2.0 via Tup Wanders
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BenefitsSociodrama, which combines theatre techniques and social relationships in specific and goal-based activities, can:
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By Staff Sgt. Robert Barnett (https://www.dvidshub.net/image/638929) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
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Classroom ImplementationTheatre can be incorporated into the classroom by having students retelling a story or an event (with their own bodies or with something such as shadow-puppet theatre), through the use of tableaux, by having students improvise based on a character (see sample lesson plan) or historical figure, and many other methods.
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Jensen, E. (2001). Arts with the brain in mind. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.
Kershaw, B. (1992). The politics of performance: Radical theatre as cultural intervention. New York, NY: Taylor & Francis.
McLennan, D. (2007). The Benefits of Using Sociodrama in the Elementary Classroom: Promoting Caring Relationships Among Educators and Students. Early Childhood Education Journal, 35, 451-456. doi:10.1007/s10643-007-0195-2
Peck, S., & Virkler, A. (2006). Reading in the Shadows: Extending Literacy Skills Through Shadow-Puppet Theater. The Reading Teacher, 786-795. doi:10.1598/RT.59.8.6
Rozik, E. (2002). The roots of theatre: Rethinking ritual and other theories of origin. Iowa City, IA: University of Iowa Press.
Wright, L. (2014, April 28). 4 Social Situations to Role-Play With Your Grade-Schooler. Retrieved December 10, 2015,
Kershaw, B. (1992). The politics of performance: Radical theatre as cultural intervention. New York, NY: Taylor & Francis.
McLennan, D. (2007). The Benefits of Using Sociodrama in the Elementary Classroom: Promoting Caring Relationships Among Educators and Students. Early Childhood Education Journal, 35, 451-456. doi:10.1007/s10643-007-0195-2
Peck, S., & Virkler, A. (2006). Reading in the Shadows: Extending Literacy Skills Through Shadow-Puppet Theater. The Reading Teacher, 786-795. doi:10.1598/RT.59.8.6
Rozik, E. (2002). The roots of theatre: Rethinking ritual and other theories of origin. Iowa City, IA: University of Iowa Press.
Wright, L. (2014, April 28). 4 Social Situations to Role-Play With Your Grade-Schooler. Retrieved December 10, 2015,
Last updated: 01/2016
