Two fantastic new drama games books from the Nick Hern series – well worth a look!
Katharine Zachest has produced another winner for the Nick Hern Drama Games series, containing 40 clear lesson plans for children aged 3 and up. Although there are many games, the focus of the book is on the lessons. Each one is themed and adheres to a lesson plan template, beginning with a warm-up and moving through discussion, a main focus activity, extension ideas and cross-curricular activities. The formula is one that will work well with young children, including plenty of teacher-led movement, child role-play, storytelling, teacher in role and games.
Jessica Swale brings her directorial experience to the fore in her third book for the Nick Hern Drama Games series. Time spent playing games may be seen by some as squandering precious rehearsal time, but Swale’s offerings should prove invaluable to creative directors, writers and actors wishing to develop an ensemble approach. The games will also aid interpretation of the text, and many of them can be incorporated into the rehearsal process itself.
