Theatre for Children

by Janet Grant, Janet E. Grant

Described by The Times as 'the national children's dramatist', David Wood has been writing, adapting, directing and acting in plays for children for more than twenty-five years. His best known work, from his play The Gingerbread Man to his adaptations of Roald Dahl's The BFG and The Witches have enjoyed national and international professional success and entered the repertory of amateur companies and school dramatic societies. Now David has written the definitive book on theatre for children. He analyses the skills involved in entertaining audiences of children everywhere and reveals his special techniques for catching and holding a child's attention. This practical, step-by-step comprehensive guide is essential reading for professionals and amateurs alike, and anyone wanting to be involved in theatre for children.

Genres: Theatre, Nonfiction

288 pages, Paperback

Published October 20, 1997

Reviews

[Marilyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wood offers a lot of practical tips based on his decades of experience working in children's theatre. Most of the book is dedicated to writing for children, but actors, directors and techs will also find it useful. Wood seems to specialize in large productions with full casts and sets (as opposed to small touring shows) but much of what he suggests is transferable. I'm glad I picked this one up.

[Tonya Meers · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book really helpful and it was very easy to read. The book covers all aspects of writing for children's theatre from writing an original play to adapting one as well as the business side. I also liked his sense of humour as its very similar to mine. He's clearly a man who enjoys what he does and he's right, there is nothing quite like the feel of watching children enjoy what you have produced and getting involved in it.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE THIS BOOK. David Wood repeats again and again that theatre for children is not bastard child of "real" theatre. Well...that's not exactly what he said, but you know what I mean. A man who loves what he does and it's obvious. He also aswers your email personally if you write him

[Jonathan Horn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid resource!