Activity Handout: Creating an Audio-only Reader's Theater Show

Welcome to the assignment for your high school music composition and production class! In this activity, you will have the opportunity to recreate an old-timey radio theater show by reenacting a reader's theatre script. You will be adding character voices, sound effects, and music to create an engaging audio-only performance. Here are the instructions to guide you through the process:

Objective:

Recreate an old-timey radio theater show by reenacting a reader's theater script, adding character voices, sound effects, and music.

Materials Needed:

• Computer with audio editing software (e.g., Audacity)

• Reader's theater script (either chosen from provided links or found by students)

• Microphones or headset with microphones for each student/group

• Sound effects library (online or pre-recorded)

• Music library (online or composed by students)

• Great intro: https://www.kennedy-center.org/education/resources-for-educators/classroom-resources/media-and-interactives/media/media-arts/diy-old-time-radio/

Activity Steps:

1. Introduction (15 minutes)

   • Familiarize yourself with the assignment objective and the style of old-timey radio theater shows.

   • Take a look at examples to understand the atmosphere and elements you should aim to recreate.

2. Script Selection (10 minutes)

   • Choose a reader's theater script from the provided links or find your own script that meets the assignment criteria.

   • Select a script with diverse characters and interesting dialogue to make your performance engaging.

3. Group Formation (5 minutes)

   • Form groups of no more than three members.

   • If needed, consult with your teacher to help you find suitable group members based on interests, skills, or availability.

4. Script Analysis (15 minutes)

   • Read and analyze your chosen script as a group.

   • Identify the number of characters, scenes, sound effect cues, and any music suggestions within the script.

5. Voice Acting Workshop (20 minutes)

   • Practice voice acting techniques to bring the characters to life.

   • Experiment with different voices, such as pitch, tone, accent, and pacing, to differentiate the characters.

6. Sound Effects and Music Planning (10 minutes)

   • Identify and list the required sound effects and music cues based on your script analysis.

   • Find or create suitable sound effects and select appropriate music tracks to enhance the storytelling.

7. Recording and Editing (60 minutes)

   • Record your performances using microphones and audio editing software.

   • Edit the recordings, adjusting volume levels, adding sound effects, and integrating music tracks where necessary.

8. Rehearsal and Feedback (30 minutes)

   • Rehearse your audio performance as a group.

   • Provide constructive feedback to your peers on voice acting, sound effects, and music integration.

9. Presentation (20 minutes)

   • Present your audio-only reader's theater show to the class.

   • Encourage audience feedback and engage in a discussion on the effectiveness of different elements.

Remember to be creative and have fun with this assignment! Take the opportunity to showcase your teamwork, technical skills, and creativity in creating an engaging audio-only performance.

Explore scripts from the links below or find your own. 

Free Readers Theater Scripts

Aaron Shep's Free Reader's Theater Scripts