Drama: Nailing the group performance

It’s the ultimate groupwork assignment, and there’s a lot riding on it.

There aren’t many subjects where groupwork could be the difference between life or death (sorry, we’re being dramatic). In Drama, the group performance can either be a tightknit celebration of everything that’s amazing about theate, or a stressful mix of ego and laziness. Whether you’re struggling to pull together a brilliant concept, force your co-stars to learn their lines or just trying to stay on track, here are some angles for you.

Make sure everyone’s on the same page

You might have the greatest idea ever for how this thing should play out, but it’s not going to work if everyone has different expectations. Meet up and discuss ideas, but be aware that these conversations can easily wander off track. Get someone to take notes, and do your best to bring things back to concrete answers wherever you can. Even when you’ve all technically agreed to something, it’s important to revisit what you’re actually doing along the way, to keep things on track.

Be productive when you’re together

Speaking of keeping things on track… get as much done as you can in class time, especially when it comes to rehearsal. If you’re the organised one of the group, jot down some key things you want to achieve each time you all meet up. This doesn’t mean you should be bossing everyone around, but having a plan Is a great way to keep things moving.

Keep people accountable – and be accountable yourself

This means setting solid times aside to rehearse and revise your performance. It also means getting everyone to commit to learning their lines. If a member of your group is lagging behind, talk about ways the rest of you can support them. If necessary, ask your teacher for some advice. And, of course, if you say you’re going to do something – DO IT.

You’re not the star

Everyone should remember it’s a group performance – yeah, you’ll be marked on how well you act, but the rest of your team aren’t supporting actors. Taking turns is an important skill on the stage, and everyone should have their time to shine. (It’ll help you practise looking humble when you win a Gold Logie, too.)