Second Graders are at such a great age! They are all eight years old or thereabouts. They are starting to be pretty good independent readers. They are developing physical skills such as skipping, sliding, kicking, twirling, and manipulating balls and bats. They understand a lot about social protocols so they can take turns and work in teams successfully. No wonder this is the age that many Elementary School Music teachers allow just the 2nd Graders to do a short Musical for the school.
I have had the privilege of mounting several shows just for the 2nd Graders at various schools. Three shows in particular were very successful. (Because these children were so young, I used the simplifications outlined in the scripts.)
I have had the privilege of mounting several shows just for the 2nd Graders at various schools. Three shows in particular were very successful. (Because these children were so young, I used the simplifications outlined in the scripts.)
"The Tale of Chicken Licken" - This show is especially enjoyable because of the colorful barnyard fowl costumes. Besides -- it is a straight up comedy. Young children like getting dressed in crazy costumes. It helps them assume a "character." This show can be mounted where some shows can't because it does not need spot lights, stage curtains, risers, or even much scenery.
"Momotaro" - This show is a lovely way to introduce children to another culture. This ancient Japanese folktale has so many cool elements -- Kibuki staging, fantasy characters with masks, dance props like ribbon wands, and even a Martial arts "fight."
"Stone Soup" - Set in the American Old West, this show can provide a brief history lesson along with the entertainment. It is so easy to mount as long as there is space for six village "houses," and room enough for the entire cast to do a Virginia Reel dance.
All of the songs and speaking parts are well within the ability level of 8 year olds. Even the staging and dances can be directed simply enough for beginner actors to succeed. Each of these shows has a running time of approximately 30 minutes, so they can be learned in as little as 2 weeks or about 10-15 hours of dedicated rehearsal time. These are such fun shows!
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